Florida State Begins Search for New Head Coach Following Mike Norvell's Dismissal

Florida State University has initiated a search for a new head coach following the dismissal of Mike Norvell. The decision comes as the athletics department grapples with a substantial buyout and significant debt, which has escalated to $437 million, primarily due to recent facility renovations.

Norvell, who led the team to a 13-0 record in the 2023 season, saw a dramatic decline in performance, resulting in a 10-23 record over the subsequent 33 games. The program's financial situation complicates the hiring process, as buyouts for Norvell and his staff could exceed $65 million. The school is also without a permanent athletic director after firing Mike Alford in September.

Several candidates have emerged as potential successors, including Manny Diaz, the current head coach at Duke, who has a strong background in Florida and ACC experience. Eli Drinkwitz of Missouri, known for his successful roster-building strategies, and Jake Dickert from Wake Forest, who has led his team to an impressive record, are also under consideration. Other names include Kenny Dillingham from Arizona State, Jason Eck of New Mexico, Blake Baker, the defensive coordinator at LSU, and Glenn Schumann from Georgia.

Additionally, wild-card options include Rhett Lashlee from SMU and former Florida State coach Jimbo Fisher, though both may be challenging to recruit due to their current contracts and commitments.