Florida State University was prepared for all possibilities when the University of Alabama expressed interest in hiring Mike Norvell earlier this year. Despite significant efforts from Alabama to recruit Norvell as Nick Saban’s successor, he chose to remain with the Seminoles. Concerns arose within FSU, particularly after former head coach Jimbo Fisher left for Texas A&M in 2017, prompting FSU to be ready for any outcome.
Alabama’s athletic director, Greg Byrne, reportedly targeted Norvell and Washington’s Kalen DeBoer from the start of the coaching search. Both were seen as proven coaches who had achieved success and demonstrated talent development. Byrne held “serious conversations” with Norvell and DeBoer immediately after Saban’s retirement.
According to ESPN’s Chris Lowe, Byrne flew to Seattle to meet with DeBoer and had another discussion with Norvell. The strong pursuit of Norvell caused concern among Florida State officials that he might accept the offer from Alabama. However, hours later, FSU’s Athletic Director, Michael Alford, confirmed that Norvell would remain as head coach.
In the event that Norvell had accepted the offer from Alabama, FSU was prepared to swiftly begin a coaching search and had already considered Lane Kiffin, the head coach of Ole Miss, as a potential replacement. Kiffin has a record of 34-15 with two double-digit win seasons in the last three years, including an 11-2 season culminating in a Peach Bowl victory over Penn State.
Kiffin had expressed support for FSU following their exclusion from the College Football Playoff, highlighting the Seminoles’ undefeated season and expressing empathy for their situation.
Norvell’s decision to stay at FSU reflects his commitment to building the program. It also demonstrates FSU’s willingness to invest in maintaining its status in college football.
