Florida State coach Mike Norvell said the Seminoles remain focused on Saturday’s road game at No. 10 Alabama in Tuscaloosa. The team is 1-1 after its loss to SMU, a result Norvell called disappointing, but he said it did not reduce his confidence in what Florida State can accomplish.
Michael Alford was fired as athletic director, with Bruce Warwick serving as interim athletic director. Norvell credited Alford and his wife, Laura, for their contributions to the program, described Warwick as an experienced professional and said he plans to address the change with players Tuesday. The team continued preparations after having Monday off.
Florida State will be without freshman linebackers Izayia Williams and Daylen Green for the rest of the season. Blake Nichelson is expected to play again this year but will be sidelined for an extended stretch. Norvell said those absences may open opportunities on defense and special teams.
He also praised quarterback Ashton Daniels’ work in practice and said Alabama’s fast, explosive defense has a bigger front than last season. Florida State will need balanced offense, strong individual matchups and big plays, while accounting for Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell’s ability to run outside the pocket. Norvell said the Seminoles intend to use lessons from SMU against Alabama.
The report was published Sept. 14, 2026.