Mike Norvell evaluates what 4-0 start says about how far FSU has come as a program

Florida State remains amongst the undefeated college football teams after their 44-14 win over Boston College on Saturday. It’s the Seminole’s best start since 2015 and is a stark difference from their 0-4 start in 2021. To Mike Norvell, it’s all the product of the steps the program has taken back towards prominence.

Norvell spoke after the game about the undefeated start and what it has meant to everyone in Tallahassee. He says the team has come together and, because of that, the fanbase has rallied to create the energy that he believes is synonymous with the program.

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“We’ve taken our steps. We talked about it at the beginning. It was all about building the foundation. I believe in what we do, I believe in how we do it. I believe in the young men I get to coach, I believe in the coaches I get to work with. When you see that belief collectively come together and then you see the response? I mean that crowd tonight was remarkable,” said Norvell. “The energy around campus this week? That’s what makes being a Florida State Seminole special. We got to experience that tonight and it’s what this program deserves. It’s what we’re striving to represent in how we play.”

Norvell’s team has taken step after step to get back to bowl eligibility for the first time since 2019. He started with three wins, finished with five last season, and is well on pace to top both of those by a significant amount this season. The expectations have now shifted from bowl eligibility to asking the question of what can Florida State do in the ACC this season?

However, Norvell is focused on the continued improvement of his roster. If they continue to grow how he has seen thus far, he thinks all they’re wanting to accomplish will come their way naturally.

“We know what our objective is when we’re on the field. But it not only matters what we do but how we do it,” Norvell said. “I believe our guys are playing with great heart, great discipline. We’ve still got to improve in some areas but, when you see that spirit in the way that they’re competing, we’re going to continue to get better.”

Florida State will face its toughest test yet when Wake Forest comes to Doak Campbell Stadium for a Top-25 matchup next weekend. After losing in double overtime to Clemson this weekend, the Demon Deacons will desperately be looking for a win. Still, Norvell and his team won’t be content with giving it to them. They’ve proven early that they’re more than worthy of their new Top-25 spot. It’s now on them to keep it if they want to continue to chase ACC and national success in 2022.