Spotlight on the Florida State Seminoles

© Jim Dedmon/USA TODAY NETWORK

Coming off a 13-1 season a year ago, a controversial boot out of the College Football Playoff and off-field controversies considering the school trying to leave the Atlantic Coast Conference, coach Mike Norvell spoke to the media Monday, optimistic about the 2024 campaign.

A strong area of strength for the Seminoles is the returning players from last season's roster. In his remarks at ACC Media Days, Norvell emphasized this as a key factor if the Seminoles will continue the momentum from last season. "We've got a lot of experience, and guys have contributed to helping elevate the program to where it is," he said.

In addition to returning players at Tallahassee, the Seminoles added 15 players from the Transfer Portal. Most notably, Florida State picked up quarterback DJ Uiagalelei and wide receivers Malik Benson and Marvin Jones Jr. 

Regarding additions from the Transfer Portal, Norvell said that, at the end of the day, it's about putting the best roster on the field. "It's still about putting together the most talented team," Norvell said. "Building that team is something I thought was really an X factor for us there a year ago, really the last few seasons."

The New QB1 at Florida State

Jordan Travis' injury late last season affected Flroida State. But he now plays for the New York Jets after being a fifth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Now, the Seminoles turn to Uiagalelei, once thought to be Trevor Lawrence's successor at Clemson. After playing at Oregon State last season, Uiagalelei gears up for his first season in Tallahassee.

Norvell has already seen an increased confidence in Uiagalelei during his time in Tallahassee. "It was good to see his growth," he said. "You see the confidence in the rhythm and the timing. You see those relationships continuing to grow with all the different skill players. Just even in how he is communicating. The confidence and understanding of what we are asking him to do. He's done an incredible job."

Confidence in Florida State's Defense

As Norvell made the rounds today, he emphasized the improvement in the Seminoles' defense.

Norvell already is excited about his new defensive personnel, particularly the front 7. "I am excited about the personnel once again," he said. "I think we have two of the best defensive tackles not only in the conference but in the country. Our defensive end position is as deep as it has been with some unbelievable playmakers, guys that can absolutely change the game. The linebacker position is definitely as deep and talented as we've had."

If Florida State wants to be back in Charlotte in December contending for an ACC Championship, then it will have to start fast. Its first 2 games this season are against ACC opponents. The Seminoles open up in Dublin, Ireland, at the end of August against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. Florida State then plays Boston College on Labor Day night.