Mike Norvell reveals how close Florida State is to returning to college football prominence

Florida State is one of college football’s most prominent brands after decades of dominance under Bobby Bowden and then following up his tenure with more success under Jimbo Fisher. Things fell off after that. It’s now been five years since Florida State finished in the top-25, but Mike Norvell is confident that’s going to change soon.

Mike Norvell was hired going into the 2020 season to help turn the program around after a difficult Willie Taggart era. In terms of wins and losses, things haven’t been better. Still, Norvell is confident in looking to the future.

“I definitely think we’re getting close,” Mike Norvell told Paul Finebaum, “And, it’s the journey that makes it worth it. You know, anybody can go win when you have experience here, experience there.”

Mike Norvell pointed out that Florida State has had to go through adversity to get where they are now. Because of that adversity, they’ve gained experience and gotten closer as a team.

“It’s been a unique few years and, you know, for us, just to be able to get the consistency and the continuity within a staff, within–for our players–you’re seeing that growth. You know, having leaders emerge throughout our roster. We’re there able to take a great piece of the ownership of what we’re doing. And, that’s what I’ve enjoyed.”

“And we’re excited about where we are, but I really believe great days are ahead in the very near future,” Mike Norvell said. “And this team has an opportunity to go make their statement by how we play.”

If Mike Norvell and Florida State are going to return to prominence, they’re going to need to do it against a difficult schedule, which has two SEC opponents and four preseason AP top-25 conference opponents.

Mike Norvell addressed his relationship with the FSU players

While addressing the media following practice, Mike Norvell addressed his relationship with the Florida State players. In particular, making sure that they’re all on the same page.

“I think it’s the consistency in the message. You know, guys understand the expectation and they embrace a process of it, you know. I don’t care how long you’ve been apart of something, when you get challenges, it’s never fun for the individual. But when you see guys embracing the coaching and they embrace the opportunity to get better.”

“That’s one thing. I think we are a confident team. But the confidence does come from the work. And that’s where I tell them it’s every day. I mean, you’re gonna build it or you’re gonna lose it. Because, you know, anybody can get out there and talk. And you’ll see a lot of teams that will do a lot of it,” Mike Norvell said.