October 18, 2025<\/a>Hopefully, Mike Norvell had FSU to watch that Indiana\/Miami game to see what it’s like to play high-level football<\/p>\nI watched that game through the lens of thinking about how far FSU is from consistently playing at that level. Here are three things that consistently stuck out:<\/p>\n
The attitude and toughness Indiana plays with are impressive. The running backs run like their lives are on the line, and it helps that their offensive line gives them some space to get going downhill. \u00a0They were not perfect, but the level of execution in key situations was astounding. They converted two crucial fourth downs and were 6 of 16 on third down. They could have converted at least two more third downs, but they dropped wide-open passes. Special teams played a big role in the game. Indiana made both field goals, blocked a punt for a score, and gave the Miami offense long fields nearly all night. The two fourth quarter touchdowns Miami scored went 81 and 91 yards. That\u2019s tough to do consistently against a good defense.<\/p>\n
Indiana isn\u2019t the most talented team. Miami had more talent, but Indiana took the fight to Miami for most of the game. They executed better overall in all three phases. They had fewer penalties, didn\u2019t turn the ball over, and did all of the little things that win football games. Guys do their role and don\u2019t try to play hero ball. <\/p>\n
Related Story: FSU may have one more shot at landing difference makers from the transfer portal<\/a><\/p>\nIndiana basically did everything FSU didn\u2019t when they played Miami earlier this year. Can FSU turn it around with Mike Norvell as the head coach? Nah, it\u2019s probably too far gone, BUT if the players somehow bought into playing for one another? If some leaders actually emerged? FSU had as much talent as Indiana this year. However, Indiana\u2019s physicality, mental toughness, ability to execute, and not beating themselves are major differences between those two programs right now.<\/p>\n