After a challenging start to the season, Florida State’s head coach Mike Norvell and athletic director Michael Alford are urging patience as they work to build a resilient, competitive program. The Seminoles recently notched an important win over Cal, and while it wasn’t a dominant performance, both Norvell and Alford see it as a critical step in the right direction.
Norvell, now in his fourth year as head coach, understands the pressure that comes with leading one of college football’s most storied programs. The team has faced its fair share of adversity in recent seasons, with many fans growing anxious for a return to the elite ranks. After a rough start this season, the victory over Cal provided a much-needed morale boost. Norvell acknowledged the win but emphasized that success in college football doesn’t happen overnight.
“Building a team takes time,” Norvell stated. “We’re not where we want to be yet, but every step, every victory, is a part of the process. I ask the fans and everyone involved to be patient because we’re working hard every day to get this program back to where it belongs.”
Michael Alford, Florida State’s VP and athletic director, echoed Norvell’s sentiment. Alford stressed the importance of long-term vision and the need to avoid knee-jerk reactions to early struggles. “We knew this season was going to be a test of our resilience,” Alford explained. “We’re invested in this coaching staff and these players. There’s no quick fix in college football. What Mike is building is something sustainable, and we have to give it time to develop.”
The win over Cal, while not flawless, was a sign that the Seminoles are still in the fight. The team showed grit and determination, two qualities Norvell has been pushing his players to embrace. “This was a tough game, but we came together and found a way to win,” Norvell said. “That’s the kind of mentality we’re trying to instill—keep pushing, no matter what.”
For both Norvell and Alford, patience and perseverance are key as they aim to rebuild Florida State into a powerhouse. With a tough schedule ahead, the Seminoles will need to continue growing and adapting, but the victory over Cal offers hope that the program is headed in the right direction. Fans may want quick results, but Norvell’s message is clear: success takes time, and Florida State is willing to put in the work to get there.
