Florida State Faces Must-Win Showdown Against Florida This Saturday

UPDATE: Florida State University (FSU) is gearing up for a critical matchup against the Florida Gators this Saturday, November 25, 2023, at 4:30 p.m. on ESPN2. Following the recent announcement that head coach Mike Norvell will retain his position, the Seminoles are focused on breaking a disheartening two-year road losing streak and defeating their arch-rival for the first time since 2023.

The Seminoles have not won a road game in over two years, with their last victory occurring during a perfect regular season on November 25, 2023, against Florida, when they clinched a 24-15 win. The pressure has been lifted off the players after FSU administrators confirmed Norvell’s continuity, alleviating the burden of needing to win for their coach’s job security. “I love coaching these guys… this team plays hard for us,” Norvell stated, emphasizing the newfound stability within the program.

As FSU (5-6) prepares to face off against Florida (3-8), three pressing questions loom over the team:

Why did FSU retain Norvell? The decision comes with a hefty price tag, as Norvell’s estimated buyout is around $54 million, significantly higher than the $17 million paid to buy out former coach Willie Taggart in 2019. With coaching vacancies at major programs like Florida, LSU, and Auburn, the stakes are high, and Norvell has vowed to implement “fundamental changes” to revitalizing the team. Enhancing off-field staff and expanding the scouting department are top priorities as FSU aims to improve its recruitment strategy.

Will FSU finally win on the road? The Seminoles have struggled in their four road games, committing nine turnovers and incurring 31 penalties, resulting in an 0-4 record. In their recent 21-11 loss, FSU squandered multiple opportunities in Wolfpack territory, scoring only one touchdown and one field goal. Offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn noted, “Some of the same things on the road happened again,” stressing the need for improved execution. FSU is eager to score in the first quarter, a feat they have yet to achieve in their road losses.

Can FSU limit Florida’s top tailback? The Gators’ standout running back, Jadan Baugh, poses a significant challenge for FSU’s defense. Baugh impressed last season with 11 carries for 81 yards against the Seminoles and has since amassed 904 rushing yards and six touchdowns this year. Norvell praised Baugh’s versatility, stating, “You better put your pads on him; you got to get him stopped before he gets started.”

Despite allowing just 17.2 points per game over the last five matches, FSU’s defense has shown vulnerability against the run, conceding 238 yards in a recent victory against Virginia Tech.

As the game approaches, FSU fans are hopeful for a turnaround in their team’s fortunes on the road. With a crucial clash against Florida on the horizon, the Seminoles are under immense pressure to secure a victory that could redefine their season and restore pride against their long-standing rival. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as FSU attempts to end this troubling streak in the Swamp.