Mike Norvell’s era as a CEO head coach ended with Gus Malzahn’s decision to retire just 10 days ago. Norvell will be Florida State’s play-caller and on Wednesday discussed on the ACC Network his reasoning for taking back a role he held during his time at Memphis and at FSU from 2020-24.
He cited FSU’s expanded front office staff, which includes new hires like John Garrett and Taylor Edwards, as why he is able to focus his attention more on the offense in 2026.
“I think that really has allowed me a lot more flexibility to do the things that are necessary,” Norvell said on the Inside ACCess show. “Throughout my coaching career, I've served as head coach, play-caller, been able to do that for many years. And as college football has evolved and changed in a variety of ways when it comes to rosters, construction, all of the different elements of what that is, being able to have that support on the personnel aspect of it, I think, is going to really allow me to dive all the way in and being able to support this football team in a variety of different areas.
“But, yes, getting back and being able to do that on the offensive side is something that I'm excited about and really looking forward to.”
Norvell was asked how much of a scheme change there would be between Malzahn’s offense and one led by new offensive coordinator Tim Harris Jr. as well as Norvell. He said “foundationally” there are many similarities between what Malzahn did and what Norvell has shown and wants to do.
FSU was able to retain top receivers Duce Robinson, who had a 1,000-yard season in 2025, as well as Micahi Danzy. The Seminoles also added quarterback Ashton Daniels (Auburn), running back Tre Wisner (Texas) and tight end Desirrio Riles (ECU) to the offense.
“This is an offense that's built for playmakers, and I feel like we've got a great number of playmakers within this offense,” Norvell said. “We'll be able to utilize their skills, their talents, and be able to showcase that in a variety of different ways.”
Norvell was also asked if the quarterback competition is open between Daniels and redshirt freshman Kevin Sperry. FSU’s coach said Sperry is “excited to compete.”
Daniels comes to FSU with “expectations,” Norvell said twice in the interview.
“You saw from him going into Auburn and redshirting throughout the course of year, playing those last few games you saw growth and his productivity there late in the season and the opportunities he got,” Norvell said. “We do have big expectations for what it's going to look like here at Florida State.”
Later in the interview, Norvell was asked about the challenges of making a decision on a quarterback and how tough it is to get it right between the depth chart and transfers.
“It will always be the most important decision that you make within a football team,” Norvell said.
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