Florida State coach Mike Norvell said the Seminoles remain confident despite their loss to SMU and are preparing for Saturday’s road game against No. 10 Alabama in Tuscaloosa. The team is 1-1. Norvell said quarterback Ashton Daniels had a strong week, especially in practice and in focusing on areas he can control.
Michael Alford was fired as athletic director. Norvell praised Alford and his wife, Laura, for their work and said preparations would continue under interim athletic director Bruce Warwick, whom he described as an experienced professional. Players were off Monday, and Norvell planned to address the leadership change with them Tuesday.
Freshman linebackers Izayia Williams and Daylen Green will miss the rest of the season. Veteran linebacker Blake Nichelson is expected back this year but will be out for an extended period. Norvell said those absences could give other defensive and special-teams players opportunities.
He called Alabama’s defense fast and explosive, with a larger front than last season, and said Florida State must win individual matchups, maintain offensive balance and create big plays. Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell also presents a major threat outside the pocket. Norvell said the Seminoles will use lessons from the SMU game against Alabama.
The report was published Sept. 14, 2026, by sports.yahoo.com.
