Mike Norvell is entering the 2026 college football season on a seat so hot, you might need an oven mitt just to look at it. This Monday, Labor Day, is his first real chance to prove if this Florida State team can actually turn things around and, you know, maybe let him keep his job. It’s a massive moment for the Seminoles, and honestly, for Norvell’s entire career there.
FSU’s Rocky Road and a Week 0 Snooze
Let’s just say Florida State hasn’t exactly been setting the world on fire since that undefeated 2023 regular season, the one where they got snubbed from the four-team College Football Playoff. Seriously, how do you go from perfect to a brutal 8-17 record since then? That’s a gut punch for any program, especially one with FSU’s history. They kicked off their 2026 campaign in Week 0 with a 34-17 win against New Mexico State, which sounds okay until you realize they were only up by a single touchdown late in the third quarter. Not exactly a dominant statement, right? This upcoming game against No. 20 SMU isn’t just their first ACC game of the season, it’s a huge test against one of the toughest teams on their schedule. Talk about jumping into the deep end.
No. 20 SMU Rolls Into Doak Campbell on a Tear
Meanwhile, No. 20 SMU is rolling into Tallahassee like they own the place, and honestly, they’ve earned the swagger. Coach Rhett Lashlee’s Mustangs have had zero issues adjusting to Power Four football, going an insane 20-7 in two seasons in the ACC. And get this: they’re 14-2 in conference play and even made a College Football Playoff appearance back in 2024. That’s serious business. They’re bringing back quarterback Kevin Jennings, who’s been an absolute beast, accounting for a mind-boggling 7,294 total yards and 58 touchdowns over the past two seasons. This dude is a game-changer, and SMU’s path back to the ACC championship game starts right here against the Seminoles.
What’s at Stake This Monday Night?
This isn’t just another game. Florida State hosts No. 20 SMU at Doak Campbell Stadium in Tallahassee on Monday, September 7, with kickoff slated for 7:30 p.m. ET. You can catch all the action nationally on ESPN, with Dave Pasch on play-by-play, Dusty Dvoracek providing the analysis, and Taylor McGregor on the sideline. For FSU, this is a must-win to show any sign of life and maybe, just maybe, save Norvell’s job. For SMU, it’s a chance to make a massive statement and solidify their spot as a contender for the ACC championship. Get ready, because Monday night is going to be an absolute battle.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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