Florida State Seminoles
· 2026-07-13
The Seminoles enter 2026 as a program searching for direction. After a 5-7 finish last year, FSU’s offense—ranked No. 11 nationally in rushing—remains a strength, but quarterback instability and a brutal non-conference schedule threaten to derail expectations. The coaching staff faces scrutiny after 17 losses in two seasons, and Norvell’s future hangs in the balance.
Last season’s 5-7 record had four losses by eight points or fewer, a sign of competitive fire. The 2026 schedule starts with a home opener against New Mexico State Aggies on August 29, followed by a September showdown with Alabama in Tuscaloosa—where the Crimson Tide return just three offensive starters, including freshman QB Keelon Russell.
FSU’s rushing attack, led by returning backs Ousmane Kromah and Samuel Singleton (7.0 YPC in 2025), adds JUCO transfer Quintrevion Wisner. The offensive line, anchored by All-MAC guard Nate Pabst, provides a physical edge. If the passing game improves, the Seminoles could exceed the 6.5-win preseason projection.
The September 7 rematch with Alabama is the most intriguing game of the season. The Tide, a 2025 playoff team, return Russell—a freshman with limited experience. FSU caught Alabama early last year in Tallahassee (31-17), and the timing favors the Seminoles again. A road win in Tuscaloosa would silence doubters.
Norvell named Ashton Daniels the starter after 15 spring practices, but his ball security (22 career INTs vs. 24 TDs) raises concerns. Daniels’ 2024 Stanford season included 12 interceptions to 10 touchdowns, and midseason changes aren’t out of the question.
JUCO phenom Malachi Marshall, a 2025 NJCAA champion with 2,800 passing yards, 33 TDs, and an 179.1 passer rating, is the obvious backup. Norvell can’t ignore Marshall’s production, and the pressure to replace Daniels will grow if the offense stalls.
The athletic department won’t tolerate another losing season. Norvell’s contract situation is murky, but after 17 losses in two years, the message is clear: this will be his final season in Tallahassee. The 2026 campaign is a make-or-break moment for FSU’s football program.
The Seminoles’ next step is on the field—and in the front office. If FSU hits 8 wins, Norvell’s fate remains uncertain. But if the season collapses, the coaching search begins immediately. One thing is certain: 2026 will define Florida State’s future.