### Florida State University Stands by Coach Mike Norvell Amidst Struggles Florida State University (FSU) has decided to retain head coach Mike Norvell for the 2026 football season, despite a challenging two-year period that has seen the team struggle for bowl eligibility. This decision comes after a disappointing 21-11 loss to North Carolina State, which left the Seminoles with a 5-6 record for the season. Norvell's tenure has been marked by a significant decline in performance since the team's ACC Championship win in 2023, raising questions about his future. However, FSU's administration has expressed a commitment to support Norvell, emphasizing the need for "fundamental changes" within the program to restore its competitive edge in college football [https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2025/nov/24/fsu-remains-loyal-to-norvell-for-now][https://www.radioonthego.com/2025/11/24/florida-state-confirms-that-head-coach-mike-norvell-will-return-in-2026]. ### Key Aspects of FSU's Decision to Retain Norvell 1. **Performance Context**: - Norvell's record stands at 7-17 since the 2023 season, with the team losing 13 of its last 16 Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) games [https://apnews.com/article/florida-state-mike-norvell-deb625b666aa908cd5895e3171107ee3]. - The Seminoles have struggled significantly, finishing with a 2-10 record last season and currently sitting at 5-6 [https://www.yardbarker.com/college_football/articles/fsu_plans_to_bring_back_mike_norvell_in_2026/s1_17106_43111775]. 2. **Financial Considerations**: - Retaining Norvell avoids a substantial buyout estimated at around $54 million, which would have been triggered by a dismissal [https://www.yardbarker.com/college_football/articles/report_florida_state_to_bring_back_mike_norvell_in_2026/s1_17396_43109938]. - Norvell's contract, extended after a successful 2023 season, includes a salary of over $10 million per year, making a coaching change financially burdensome for the university [https://www.yardbarker.com/college_football/articles/72_million_coach_on_hot_seat_will_reportedly_keep_head_coaching_job/s1_17022_43110159]. 3. **Future Plans and Changes**: - Norvell has committed to making significant changes to improve recruiting and player development, areas where the program has faced challenges [https://www.firstcoastnews.com/article/news/regional/florida/florida-state-retains-mike-norvell-program-overhaul-seminoles/77-fdbe8ed1-4128-4f28-af0b-cc17295c1a65]. - The administration's support reflects a desire for continuity while addressing the need for improvement in the team's performance [https://www.yardbarker.com/college_football/articles/mike_norvell_returning_as_fsu_footballs_head_coach_in_2026/s1_16907_43109976]. ### Summary of Findings on FSU's Decision In summary, Florida State University has opted to keep Mike Norvell as head coach for the 2026 season, a decision influenced by both financial implications and a commitment to support the coach in revitalizing the program. The administration's backing comes with an expectation of significant changes aimed at improving the team's performance and competitiveness in college football. 1. **Retention Decision**: FSU retains Norvell despite poor performance and fan dissatisfaction. 2. **Financial Implications**: A coaching change would incur a hefty buyout, making retention a financially sound choice. 3. **Commitment to Change**: Norvell is tasked with implementing fundamental changes to enhance recruiting and player development. This decision reflects a strategic approach by FSU to navigate the complexities of college football while maintaining stability within the program [https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaaf/acc/2025/11/23/mike-norvell-return-2026-season-florida-state/87435030007].