Florida State’s 2026 Plans Yet to Take Off: Mike Norvell Struggles With Bleak Verdict from CFB Analyst Joel Klatt
Florida State University’s football program has been struggling in recent years, and head coach Mike Norvell was hoping to turn things around in the upcoming 2026 season. However, his hopes were quickly dashed when CFB analyst Joel Klatt delivered a bleak verdict for the Noles’ chances next year. In a recent interview, Klatt stated, “Florida State was down bad last year, and there really isn’t any light at the end of that tunnel.”
This verdict comes as a disappointment to Norvell and his team, who have been working tirelessly to rebuild the once-dominant FSU football program. Norvell was brought in as head coach in 2020, and his first two seasons have been less than stellar, with back-to-back disappointing performances. With a record of 3-6 in 2020 and 2-6 in 2021, Norvell and his team were looking forward to a fresh start in the 2026 season. However, Klatt’s harsh assessment has left them with little hope for the future.
But the question remains, why is Klatt so pessimistic about FSU’s chances in 2026? Let’s take a closer look at the factors that may have led to his verdict.
First and foremost, the Noles’ performance in the last two seasons has been far from impressive. Despite having a talented roster, they have struggled to find their footing and have been plagued by inconsistency. This has not only affected their on-field performance but has also dampened the team’s morale and confidence. Klatt’s assessment is based on what he has seen from FSU in the past two years, and it’s hard to argue with his reasoning.
Secondly, the team’s lack of depth in key positions is a cause for concern. Injuries and transfers have depleted the Noles’ roster, leaving them with limited options in critical areas. This has not only affected their performance but has also hindered Norvell’s ability to recruit new players. With a limited pool of talent, it’s hard to see how FSU can make a significant turnaround in the upcoming season.
Moreover, other teams in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) have also made significant improvements in recent years, making it even more challenging for FSU to compete. Traditional powerhouses like Clemson and Notre Dame have dominated the conference, while up-and-coming teams like North Carolina and Louisville are quickly closing the gap. In such a competitive landscape, FSU will need to step up their game if they want to compete at the highest level.
But all hope is not lost for the Noles. Norvell has shown determination and resilience in the face of adversity, and his efforts to rebuild the program should not be overlooked. He has a proven track record of turning around struggling teams, and with the right support, he can do the same for FSU.
Moreover, the upcoming season will give Norvell and his staff the much-needed time to evaluate their roster and make necessary changes. With a solid recruiting strategy and shrewd decisions in the transfer market, they can address the team’s weaknesses and build a stronger and more competitive squad for the 2026 season. It may not result in an immediate turnaround, but it will lay the foundation for future success.
Furthermore, the team’s young and talented players should not be underestimated. Despite their struggles, they have shown glimpses of their potential, and with the right coaching and guidance, they can develop into key contributors for the Noles. Norvell’s focus on player development and his ability to mold young talents into star players can be a significant advantage for FSU in the coming years.
In conclusion, while Klatt’s verdict may be a harsh reality check for FSU fans, it shouldn’t be taken as the final word. The team and its fans should use it as motivation to work harder and prove the doubters wrong. Norvell and his team have a long road ahead, but with determination, hard work, and a positive attitude, they can turn things around and bring back the glory days for Florida State football. As the saying goes, “It’s always darkest before the dawn.” And for the Noles, the 2026 season could be the dawn of a new era.
