Florida State coach Mike Norvell under pressure to secure eight wins in 2026 season

Former Florida State quarterback Danny Kanell warned that head coach Mike Norvell must guide the Seminoles to at least eight victories in the 2026 season or risk losing his job, citing a $45‑$51 million buyout that protects him only if performance improves. After a 2‑10 record in 2024 and a 5‑7 finish in 2025, FSU faces a tough schedule that includes games against New Mexico State, SMU, Alabama, Louisville, Miami, Boston College and others. Kanell said Norvell “knows exactly what he has to do” and emphasized that the eight‑win benchmark will determine his future.

At the same ACC media days, Miami Hurricanes head coach Mario Cristobal and star players such as quarterback Darian Mensah, wide receiver Malachi Toney and running back Mark Fletcher Jr. were highlighted as the team’s top contender for the conference, with a schedule that features matchups against Stanford, Clemson and Notre Dame. Analysts noted Miami’s talent depth and recent near‑national‑championship run, positioning them as a potential ACC champion in 2026.