Florida State University head coach Mike Norvell faced intense scrutiny during the 2024 football season, culminating in a public expression of accountability and a commitment to rebuilding the program. Following a dismal 2–10 record—the worst in FSU history since 1974—Norvell addressed the media with a candid apology and a promise of swift corrective action.
The season’s challenges were multifaceted, including a 52–3 loss to Notre Dame and a 38–11 defeat to North Carolina, both underscoring systemic issues within the team . In response, Norvell made significant coaching changes, dismissing offensive coordinator Alex Atkins, defensive coordinator Adam Fuller, and receivers coach Ron Dugans . Co-defensive coordinator Randy Shannon was promoted to defensive coordinator, with other staff absorbing additional responsibilities . ([FSU coach Mike Norvell fires both coordinators a day after a 52-3 drubbing at Notre Dame | Hosted](https://hosted.ap.org/santafenewmexican/article/92c4fadbc75063a1a16f1e9f10173cef/fsu-coach-mike-norvell-fires-both-coordinators-day-after?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
In his remarks, Norvell took full responsibility for the team’s performance, stating, “I’m sorry for what showed up throughout the course of this year. It will be fixed.” He emphasized the need for improvement across all areas of the program, including player development, mindset, and execution . ([“Disappointing ending to an awful season:” Norvell promises quick turnaround after loss to Florida ends FSU football’s nightmare year – Tomahawk Nation](https://www.tomahawknation.com/florida-state-football-fsu-seminoles-college-cfb-acc-norvell-team-roster-schedule-game/2024/11/30/24309970/blowout-loss-gators-uf-finale-rivalry-score-recap-interview-video-transcript-quotes-transfer-roster?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
Despite the season’s setbacks, Norvell expressed confidence in the team’s potential for a turnaround. He acknowledged the challenges ahead but remained optimistic about restoring FSU to its competitive stature. The commitment to change was evident as he stated, “We’re going to bounce back. We’re going to be on track to where we need to be going.” ([“Disappointing ending to an awful season:” Norvell promises quick turnaround after loss to Florida ends FSU football’s nightmare year – Tomahawk Nation](https://www.tomahawknation.com/florida-state-football-fsu-seminoles-college-cfb-acc-norvell-team-roster-schedule-game/2024/11/30/24309970/blowout-loss-gators-uf-finale-rivalry-score-recap-interview-video-transcript-quotes-transfer-roster?utm_source=chatgpt.com), [“The right time to do it…this year has been unacceptable:” Mike Norvell discusses coordinator firings, plans for coaching staff at the beginning of the bye week – Tomahawk Nation](https://www.tomahawknation.com/florida-state-football-fsu-seminoles-college-cfb-acc-norvell-team-roster-schedule-game/2024/11/11/24293625/mike-norvell-coordinator-dismissals-alex-atkins-adam-fuller-randy-shannon-acc?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
As FSU moves forward, the focus will be on rebuilding the program’s foundation, ensuring that the missteps of the past season lead to a more resilient and successful future.