Florida State head coach Mike Norvell needed a win on Saturday. The Noles went into their bye in Week 9 on a four-game losing streak.
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FSU did more than win against Wake Forest; they destroyed the Demon Deacons 42-7 in front of 63,677 fans at Doak Campbell Stadium. The Seminoles improved to 4-4 overall and 1-4 in ACC play.
In October, FSU athletic director Michael Alford released a statement suggesting the program would wait until after the regular season to decide on Norvell’s fate. However, pressure mounted on the Noles to make a change after Stanford defeated the program on Oct. 18.
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Per Pete Nakos of On3, FSU’s 35-point win over Wake Forest assures that any decision to fire Norvell happens at the conclusion of the regular season.
“Pressure was high on Mike Norvell to win at home against Wake Forest on Saturday night,” Nakos wrote. “The Seminoles responded with a 42-7 blowout win, two weeks after a devastating loss at Stanford. After that loss on the West Coast, boosters were pushing for a coaching change. Saturday night’s win will now push those conversations to the end of the season.
“The Seminoles just need to win two of their last four to reach bowl eligibility. Norvell’s buyout is still north of $50 million. If FSU can run the table and finish 8-4, it could be enough for the head coach to return. One source close to the situation said the win “doesn’t change anything” regarding Norvell’s future.”
Part of the equation in firing Norvell is the head coach’s estimated $53.3 million buyout. The Noles reportedly lack the funds to pay the buyout and hire an adequate replacement for Norvell.
More money could come in if FSU adds to the loss column in November. But if the Seminoles finish their schedule playing like they did on Saturday night, Norvell might have bought himself another season in Tallahassee.
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