Over the years, Florida State fans have experienced ample heartbreaking losses, but Saturday’s defeat against Stanford hit a new low. With 13 penalties, missed opportunities, and a late-game collapse that resulted in a 20–13 loss, the Seminoles were unable to get out of their own way. They sit at 3-4 overall and winless in ACC play. Mike Norvell’s seat has never felt hotter as Tallahassee’s frustration keeps growing with every game.

In a recent post on X, John Talty wrote, “After the loss to Stanford, a source told CBS Sports that players were cracking jokes in the locker room about having to “respond” yet again. “Respond” is a common phrase for Norvell to his team as losses mount.” Losing is one thing, and losing the hunger to win is another. And that’s just what appears to be happening in Florida State’s locker room. The report following Stanford’s loss that the players were making jokes rather than experiencing the pain of another loss tells it all.

The sad part is that the accountability that the former FSU squads had has vanished. It was obvious when FSU DB Edwin Joseph dismissed Norvell on the sidelines following two grave mistakes, only to return to the game a few minutes later. This used to be unimaginable at FSU. Back then, the players took the lead in those days; they were accountable.

After the loss, Norvell discussed “focus penalties,” “urgency,” and “emphasizing the little things.” But seems like words have ceased to hold value. The buyout, worth $54.4 million, suddenly seems less painful than seeing this program continue to deteriorate further. He is now 1-11 in ACC play over two seasons, with nine consecutive conference defeats and four straight this year. After a game that ended on a failed shovel pass, FSU, which once stood as a sign of pride, is now a joke that Stanford can make fun of. Maybe Norvell still has heart in this program, as seen by his presser following each defeat. But this squad no longer plays as if his message matters.

Florida State’s collapse hits rock bottom

Florida State’s downfall feels like a nightmare. This team was undefeated and was screaming about being left out of the playoffs over a year ago. And now they are incapable of even a conference win. After shocking Alabama in week 1, things have taken a downturn. The 20–13 defeat to Stanford drained the life out of the fan base. The frustration is boiling with questions of when exactly Norwell will be shown the door. And honestly, it’s hard to disagree. When your team gives up 13 penalties, looks half-interested, and then makes a mockery afterward in the locker room. There’s no more defending what’s happening in Tallahassee.

Just by looking at this squad, you can see how puzzled they are. Football isn’t a one-man show, even if Tommy Castellanos gave it his all by diving for yards and tossing bombs to Duce Robinson. It’s tough to win when the defense keeps giving away free first downs and half the squad is collecting flags. What’s more heartbreaking is the fact that we, as Florida State fans, are losing faith. But we desperately want a change.

The whispers are now turning into actual discussions. Decision-makers are reportedly already making calls on Norvell’s future. But that $54.4 million acquisition hangs over like a dark cloud. Even for a powerhouse like FSU, it’s a huge check to write. But how long can they wait, though? The players have lost interest, the fan base is restless, and memories of Jimbo Fisher and Bobby Bowden’s prime days are a harsh reminder of what this program once was. At some point, someone must take charge and say that FSU has had enough.