Norvell talks QBs, mentality of Glenn, Kromenhoek: 'I hope they see themselves as the X-factor'
It likely will be five days before we know if a quarterback change is being made at Florida State.
Obviously, the offense has been abysmal through an 0-3 start and is averaging barely 15 points per game. But on Monday, when head coach Mike Norvell was asked about his quarterback position, he didn’t suggest that starter DJ Uiagalelei would be replaced by backup Brock Glenn or true freshman Luke Kromenhoek.
He also didn’t say that the fifth-year senior was the unquestioned starter, either.
Like he did after Saturday’s loss to Memphis, Norvell said everything was, “being evaluated.”
“It’s been a challenging start for everybody,” he said.
Norvell admitted there were some missed opportunities on Uiagalelei’s part in the 20-12 loss, but he added that the senior QB also got them into some big plays as well.
“I am pleased with the way he’s preparing,” Norvell said. “You see the moments where he’s giving us a chance, giving us an opportunity. … And I’m believing we’re going to see growth from every position we have. We’re going to see competition in that.”
The Seminoles’ head coach added, like he did numerous times on Monday, that everyone — including himself — all have to be more consistent: “So we can get the spark necessary to go be what I think we can be.”
Again, Norvell didn’t give a hint one way or another if a quarterback change is coming. And if there was an impending switch, it’s doubtful he would make such an announcement anyway. Why give Saturday’s opponent, Cal, more reason to scout the other quarterbacks?
But Norvell was asked specifically about Glenn and Kromenhoek, and how they are handling the prospect of wanting to get into games. Wanting to show they can be a difference-maker in the 2024 season.
“I hope they see themselves as the X factor in what’s going to be the difference, the spark, the change …,” Norvell said. “I love what I’m seeing from Brock. And I said it after the game, I have a lot of confidence in that quarterback room.
“It’s going to be a daily push for all of them to show where they are, and if obviously if the opportunity presents itself what it’s going to look like.”
He then added on the two backup signal-callers: “I think both of them have that edge.”
Florida State released its weekly projected depth chart for the Cal game on Monday, and it was mostly unchanged from last week.
*Sign up for premium access to Warchant.com and the On3 Network*
Florida State injury updates
Norvell said it’s too early to know whether starting offensive tackles Darius Washington and Jeremiah Byers will be available against Cal. He said, “it’s promising we can get one if not both (back).”
He said he also expects to get starting safety Shyheim Brown back this week as well. Wide receiver Jalen Brown and linebacker Cam Riley, who were both injured in the game on Saturday, will be monitored during the week, Norvell said.
*Game Time Announced: FSU’s Sept. 28 game at SMU will be played at 8 p.m. and air on the ACC Network, the conference announced Monday.
Talk about this story with other die-hard FSU football fans on the Tribal Council.
