Mike Norvell’s Florida State future in serious jeopardy after ugly 24-point loss to Louisville

Florida State somehow managed to turn a 14-point lead into a 24-point loss Friday night, adding another brutal loss to Mike Norvell’s tenure in Tallahassee.

The Seminoles’ 44-20 collapse against Louisville was just the latest in a string of humiliating defeats that have left Norvell’s future with the program in jeopardy.

“Too many times, we didn’t show the detail, the discipline, the mental toughness that’s necessary on the road. And it starts with me,” Norvell said after the game.

After falling behind by two scores in the opening 15 minutes, the Cardinals were able to outscore the Seminoles 44-6 over the remaining three quarters.

Florida State Seminoles quarterback Ashton Daniels (14) throws under pressure from Louisville Cardinals defensive back Antonio Watts (9) and Louisville Cardinals linebacker Ben Perry (23) at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium, Friday, Oct. 9, 2026. USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

Louisville finished with 537 yards of offense, including 397 yards on the ground with six rushing touchdowns. 

The Seminoles have dropped 11 straight true road games and 13 straight away from Doak Campbell Stadium.

“What we put out there, obviously, guys were not as prepared as they need to be,” Norvell said. “But we all need to take ownership of it. Coaches, players, everyone involved. There was plenty of opportunity.”

As Norvell puts this loss on himself and his staff, the talks about his future in Tallahassee look bleak. Former head coach Jimbo Fisher is eager for a reunion with the Seminoles.

Florida State Seminoles quarterback Ashton Daniels (14) throws under pressure from Louisville Cardinals defensive back Antonio Watts (9) and Louisville Cardinals linebacker Ben Perry (23) at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium. USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
Louisville running back Isaac Brown smiles as he scores a 97-yard touchdown during a game against visiting Florida State at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium in Louisville, Ky. USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

Florida State has squandered large leads early in the season. Florida State was leading 21-6 in Tuscaloosa before losing 50-36 to Alabama in Week 3.

The road woes could continue as Florida State (3-3, 1-2 ACC) heads to Hard Rock Stadium for a conference rivalry matchup against the No. 4 Miami Hurricanes.

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