Florida State football news: Mike Norvell's honest assessment after SMU loss
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Following two straight disappointing seasons, Florida State football had an opportunity to gain significant momentum by earning an ACC victory over a ranked opponent. One can even say that the program needed this one. The Seminoles were unable to break through, however, and remain mired in uncertainty heading into next Saturday’s road matchup versus Alabama. Mike Norvell did not focus only on the negative, but he made sure to acknowledge his team’s shortcomings.
“{Norvell} starts by thanking the facilities in getting the power back on,” Alison Posey of WCTV Sports reported after Florida State’s 27-24 loss to the Mustangs. “He said he thought they ran the ball really well, and they have to make plays in the passing game when the opportunities present themselves.”
That is an accurate assessment. Ousmane Kromah logged 22 carries for 116 yards and one touchdown, while quarterback Ashton Daniels rushed 16 times for 71 yards and a score. Unfortunately, the Seminoles painfully lacked balance on offense. Daniels, who transferred from Auburn, completed 12-of-23 passes for 125 yards and one TD. He looked especially out of sorts when trying to play hero ball in the final drive of the game.
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The defense also floundered. Despite forcing four turnovers, Florida State allowed Kevin Jennings to throw for 430 yards and also surrendered nearly 600 yards of total offense. If the Noles cannot fully capitalize on two fumble recoveries and two interceptions, then they could have serious problems moving forward.
This was a tough night, however. A power outage delayed the game for approximately one hour and 40 minutes. Additionally, SMU is a formidable foe with an experienced and highly productive QB. Florida State football head coach Mike Norvell can take pride in the fight his guys showed in front of the home crowd at Doak Campbell Stadium.
But marginal growth may not be enough. Positive results are vital for a program that has never recovered from getting controversially left out of the College Football Playoff in 2023. The Seminoles must quickly correct their mistakes and turn a fairly solid effort into a winning one. An important trip to Tuscaloosa is up next.
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