After a disheartening performance against SMU, Florida State Seminoles head coach Mike Norvell and his coaching staff wasted no time in making significant changes to the team’s depth chart, reflecting the urgency to turn things around ahead of their pivotal matchup against Clemson. With a 42-16 loss still fresh, Norvell faced the media on Monday morning to discuss the team’s shortcomings and outline plans for the upcoming game against the Tigers.
One of the most notable changes was the listing of quarterbacks Brock Glenn and DJ Uiagalelei as co-starters with an “OR” designation on the depth chart. This indicates an ongoing evaluation of the quarterback situation, which has been a source of concern all season. Additionally, offensive lineman Richie Leonard was notably absent from the depth chart, signaling more adjustments within the roster.
Norvell began the press conference with a frank assessment of the SMU game, pointing to a lack of resilience as a major factor in the team’s poor second-half performance. “Coming out in the second half, we had a disaster play on the dropped ball, tipped ball interception,” Norvell stated. “I didn’t think we responded to adversity as well as we needed to, and certainly not to the level that we’re capable of.”
Regarding the quarterback situation, Norvell explained that while Uiagalelei’s injury played a role in his benching, the decision to give Glenn more snaps was premeditated. “DJ, something we’re going to evaluate throughout the week,” Norvell said. “I thought Brock, after the interception, deserved a chance to go in and execute. He did some good things, though we missed on a few opportunities. DJ made some good throws, but also had a few bad decisions, and at this position, you need consistency.”
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the quarterback role, Norvell was quick to emphasize that both players will need support from the rest of the team. “The quarterback position can’t operate in isolation,” Norvell noted. “We’ve got to help them by surrounding them with better play and decision-making across the board.”
Offensive coordinator and offensive line coach Alex Atkins also addressed the media, expressing frustration with the team’s struggles in the run game. “I was really critical of our communication and our guard play,” Atkins said. “We need to be better in those areas. It’s not an effort issue, but we’ve got to be more precise and disciplined.”
Atkins also expressed his confidence in Brock Glenn, praising the freshman for handling a difficult situation in the SMU game. “Confidence is key when you put a guy in an almost impossible situation,” Atkins said. “Brock showed a lot of maturity, and we’re building him up the right way.”
Defensive coordinator Adam Fuller turned his attention to the defense, acknowledging that there are still many areas that need improvement. However, he highlighted some promising young players, including Quindarrius and Edwin, who are earning more playing time as the season progresses. “Quindarrius is really stepping up, and we’re getting Edwin more involved, especially after the Cal game,” Fuller said. “We’ve got to keep giving these guys opportunities.”
Fuller also spoke about the importance of staying adaptable with the defensive scheme. “You’ve always got to be open to tweaking things schematically, but there are fundamental aspects you can’t stray from. The key is finding that balance.”
Special teams and defensive ends coach John Papuchis wrapped up the press conference, addressing issues in the kick-return game. “We’re close to breaking one,” Papuchis said. “It’s frustrating when you see 9 or 10 guys doing their job and one breakdown costs us.”
As the Seminoles prepare to host the No. 15 Clemson Tigers this weekend, the first ranked opponent they will face this season, all eyes are on how these changes and adjustments will play out on the field. With both quarterbacks still in contention for the starting role and the team making several key adjustments, this game will be a critical test for Florida State’s future.
