Florida State's Mike Norvell Dilemma Ahead of Miami Clash

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Game Time Decisions

Florida State Faces a Defining Rivalry Game Against Miami

Many viewed this as the game that could mark the end for Florida State head coach Norvell. He responded by putting together a couple of unexpected wins, then nearly built a three-touchdown lead against Louisville before Florida State let the game slip away.

Questions remain about whether Florida State can afford to move on from Norvell. The reported cost of parting ways with him is $65 million, making it more affordable for the program to keep him as head coach than to write the check and dismiss him.

There have also been rumors and discussions about Jimbo Fisher potentially returning to coach Florida State. Fisher had considerable success there before leaving for Texas A&M, where things did not go well. A return could make sense if Fisher acknowledged that leaving was a mistake and committed to staying this time.

Norvell could still become a successful coach elsewhere, even if Florida State is not the right fit. Before taking the Florida State job, he coached at Memphis, and college football coaches often continue receiving opportunities at other programs.

For a rivalry game between Miami and Florida State to have a three-touchdown line is significant. If Miami wins by that margin, the countdown on Norvell’s tenure could begin. Conversely, a Florida State victory could save him again and would qualify as the upset of the year.

The game will be played at Hard Rock at 7 o’clock, with Miami entering as the No. 3 team in the country behind Ohio State and Georgia.