After a stunningly disappointing 2024 season, the Florida State Seminoles are predicted to bounce back in a big way in 2025. Following a 13-1 finish in 2023, complete with an ACC Championship, the Seminoles plummeted to a mere 2-10 in 2024, a stark contrast that placed head coach Mike Norvell firmly on the hot seat. But college football analysts are suggesting that a significant turnaround is not just possible, but expected.
The 2024 season was nothing short of a disaster for Florida State. After a perfect regular season in 2023 and ACC championship, the Seminoles were controversially snubbed from the College Football Playoff. The team then suffered a stunning collapse, with their only win against Cal on Sept. 21. With a loss against Notre Dame, the Seminoles reached nine losses in a season, marking the first time since 1974. The Seminoles also suffered their worst ACC record in school history, going 1-7, becoming the first team to finish 17th in the conference following the additions of SMU, Stanford, and Cal in 2024. Ranked No. 10 to start the season, FSU quickly became the most disappointing team in college football. The offense struggled mightily, ranking near the bottom nationally in scoring, while the defense couldn't consistently stop opponents.
However, the narrative is shifting towards a potential resurgence in 2025. Several factors contribute to this optimism, including coaching changes, transfer portal additions, and a schedule deemed manageable. CBS Sports' Chip Patterson highlights FSU as a prime candidate to emulate the rapid turnarounds seen in programs like Indiana and Arizona State, who dramatically improved their win totals in a single season. The expectation is that FSU can achieve an eight-win turnaround.
Key to this potential revival are the new faces on the Seminoles' roster and coaching staff. Gus Malzahn takes over as offensive coordinator, bringing a reputation for innovative play-calling. Thomas Castellanos, a transfer quarterback from Boston College, is expected to lead the offense. While some defensive producers were lost to the transfer portal, analysts anticipate that new defensive coordinator Tony White will revamp the defense.
Predictions for FSU's 2025 season vary, but the consensus points toward significant improvement. Brad Crawford of 247Sports predicts a 7-5 finish with a 5-3 conference record. While this wouldn't put the Seminoles in ACC Championship contention, it would represent a step forward. CBS Sports' David Cobb is more optimistic, listing Florida State among teams "trending up" and suggesting that bowl eligibility is probable. Vegas odds reflect this optimism, setting the Seminoles' win total at 7.5, a significant jump from their 2024 performance.
The schedule presents both challenges and opportunities. The Seminoles start the season with a high-profile home game against Alabama. Other tough matchups include Clemson, Miami, and Florida. However, the schedule also includes winnable games against Kent State and East Texas A&M, which could provide crucial momentum.
Ultimately, the 2025 season is crucial for Mike Norvell. With a 33-27 overall record at FSU, the pressure is on to deliver tangible results. A failure to reach bowl eligibility could jeopardize his job security. However, if the Seminoles can capitalize on their new talent and coaching adjustments, a turnaround reminiscent of Indiana or Arizona State is within reach, potentially redefining the Norvell era in Tallahassee.
