Bad home losses. Quarterbacks getting booed. Florida State University (FSU) football seemed to be in complete disarray. Head coach Mike Norvell stood at the center of the storm, and the question on everyone’s mind was simple: has Norvell leaned too heavily on the transfer portal? It’s a fair point—this year’s roster just doesn’t pack the same punch as last year’s. The defensive line lacks the strength and aggression that once anchored the Seminoles, and to make matters worse, Norvell’s investment in quarterback DJ Uiagalelei has yet to pay off.

Heading into Week 4 with a 0-3 record, the Seminoles were on the brink of disaster. After consecutive losses to Georgia Tech, Boston College, and Memphis—none of which were ranked—Norvell found himself on the hot seat. FSU was about to face a 3-0 California team, making this game a pivotal moment in the season. The stakes couldn’t have been higher for Norvell and his squad.

But in a much-needed revival, FSU clawed their way to a 14-9 victory over Cal, improving to 1-3 on the season. It wasn’t pretty, but it was a win, and perhaps the spark the Seminoles needed. The game’s defining moment came in the fourth quarter, with a 36-yard touchdown reception by Ja’Khi Douglas. It felt like a breath of fresh air for a program that had been suffocating under the weight of expectations.

Now, the big question looms: can FSU still dream of becoming a playoff contender, or is it already too late? Mathematically, there’s a sliver of hope. If the Seminoles can win out and finish among the top 12 in terms of wins, a playoff spot isn’t entirely out of reach. But with three early losses, including conference defeats, winning the ACC seems like a long shot—especially with Hurricanes circling in the background.

Regardless of the odds, you’ve got to give Mike Norvell credit for holding his ground. In the face of adversity, he’s kept his team fighting. The road ahead is steep, but with the right adjustments and a bit of luck, FSU may not be completely out of the race just yet.

Mike Norvell’s continue to portray rigid confidence

Following their season-opening defeat to Georgia Tech, the No. 10 Seminoles suffered another setback this week as they lost 28–13 to Boston College at home. Despite facing back-to-back losses, the head coach of FSU was confident in his ability to turn the game and the team’s potential. He believed the season could get better, and he said, “Every team is unique in of itself, and that’s the challenge to every coach.” Moreover, he added, “I can sit in front of you and tell you I haven’t been good enough. Like I tell our players, it is my job for when we step on the field, for them to go out there and to be able to showcase who they are,“.

However, before getting the final result of today’s matchup between FSU and Cal, fans were starting to doubt DJ Uiagalelei and Co.’s abilities in light of FSU’s ongoing struggles. Another agitation among the fans has been caused by DJ Uiagalelei starting the game against Memphis as his first five passes led the FSU to a 12-20 loss against Memphis. However, the fans are ecstatic about today’s win and are eagerly anticipating the next miracle.