Head Coach Mike Norvell Talks Florida State's Recent Rise to Success and the Standard
The Florida State Seminoles have experienced their fair share of highs and lows, from remarkable victories to historic losses over time. However, amidst this rollercoaster journey, the team has managed to cultivate a culture of excellence and a renewed sense of purpose. Head coach Mike Norvell, along with a dedicated coaching staff, has spearheaded a transformation that has seen the Seminoles rise in success.
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The Seminoles' journey has witnessed significant changes: new coaches, the transfer portal, the NIL era, and standout players who are all still growing while continuing their careers into the NFL and beyond. Despite the fluctuations, a strong work ethic has persisted, reminiscent of the legendary Bobby Bowden. His influence can still be felt today, symbolized by his statue in front of the Moore Center, a testament to excellence, standing tall in Tallahassee.
"Being able to set, establish, and be consistent to a standard," Norvell said when talking about the recent rise of success FSU has experienced and how the culture has changed. "Continuity was critical. When we came in - we've had our issues, and I think when you look at a program, just the change, some of the struggles, some of the challenges that have been there, there's no one person, one time that you can point to. It's just that there was a lot of change, and for the players that were here, they had to go through that. They had to experience it."
Coach Norvell continues to emphasize the significance of setting and maintaining a consistent standard. Focusing on a unified vision has been pivotal in the team’s success. The process of creating a culture that demands excellence has not been without its challenges. The program has had to confront struggles, changes, and numerous obstacles. However, rather than attributing these difficulties to a single person or moment, it is recognized that enduring change requires collective efforts and a shared commitment to growth.
"I think we've been able to do a really good job. You look at the success of guys that have transferred in here, becoming All-Conference players, becoming first-round draft picks, becoming some of the best players in all college football, because they see the opportunity that we have, and they take advantage of that, also surrounding themselves with like-minded individuals."
In today's college football landscape, the transfer portal has become commonplace, and it has undoubtedly changed rosters across the country. Even at a glance, if you look at FSU's depth chart, it is littered with some of the best-returning players in the country, and most, if not all, have come through the portal. Jordan Travis (Louisville), Johnny Wilson (Arizona State), Trey Benson (Oregon), Jared Verse (Albany), Jaheim Bell (South Carolina), Jeremiah Byers (UTEP) - the list goes on and on.
The 'Noles are coming off their first 10-win season since 2016 and open 2023 with a primetime rematch against the LSU Tigers on September 3rd. With a solid foundation in place and an unwavering dedication to their vision, the Seminoles are determined to remain a force to be reckoned with.
Be sure to catch Norvell's full interview on The Andy Staples Show here.
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