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Happy Monday Seminole!

Major shakeups lead a busy news day for the ‘Noles. Here’s what’s on tap:

🏆 Seminoles Capture 5th Straight ACC Title
The No. 6 FSU soccer team rallied to claim its fifth consecutive ACC championship with a thrilling 3-2 victory over No. 8 UNC. Senior Taylor Huff and freshman stars Taylor Suarez and Wrianna Hudson delivered clutch performances to keep the Seminoles’ ACC dominance alive.

🔄 Coaching Shake-Up in Tallahassee
FSU football announced major coaching changes as head coach Mike Norvell dismissed three key assistants. With a 1-9 record, Norvell emphasized a renewed commitment to the “Florida State standard.” The changes, costly in buyouts, come just before FSU’s final two games of the season.

🔮 Candidates for FSU’s Next DC
With Adam Fuller’s departure, the search is on for FSU’s next defensive leader. Top candidates include Scott Symons from SMU and Jonathan Patke from Duke, as FSU looks for a defensive coordinator who can revitalize the defense and enhance recruiting efforts.

🏐 Volleyball’s Hard-Fought Victory Over NC State
The No. 24 Seminoles continued their strong season with a four-set win over NC State, marking their 10th ACC victory. Audrey Koenig and Taylor Head powered FSU’s offense, while a clutch block by Iane Henke and Kelsey Perry sealed the win.

🎙️ Recruits React to Coaching Changes
After FSU’s coaching overhaul, recruits shared their thoughts on the moves. While some expressed shock, most reiterated their trust in Coach Norvell’s vision, showing commitment to the future direction of the program.

🌟 Defensive Line Duo Darryll & Mandrell Desir Commit to FSU
The Seminoles scored a double commitment from the Desir twins, talented defensive ends from Miami Norland. Recruited by Randy Shannon and John Papuchis, the brothers are a strong addition to FSU’s 2025 class.

🏆 Seminoles Capture 5th Straight ACC Title in Thrilling Comeback Over UNC 🏆

The No. 6 Florida State soccer team clinched its 11th ACC Tournament Championship on Sunday with a heart-pounding 3-2 victory over No. 8 North Carolina. This win marks the Seminoles' fifth consecutive ACC title and their 10th in the past 12 years—a true dynasty.

Game Highlights 

FSU found themselves in an early battle, with UNC pressuring hard and striking first with a penalty kick. But freshman Taylor Suarez quickly responded, launching a powerful equalizer into the bottom corner.

UNC grabbed the lead again with a header just before halftime, putting the Seminoles behind in an ACC title match for the first time since 2009.

Second-Half Surge 

As the second half progressed, senior Taylor Huff stepped up, converting a penalty kick after Ashlyn Puerta was fouled in the box. Huff’s clinical finish brought the score to 2-2. Soon after, FSU seized the lead with an incredible left-footed volley from freshman Wrianna Hudson, giving her eight goals for the season and pushing her beyond the 20-point milestone.

Dominance in the ACC 

With five consecutive ACC titles and 11 straight championship game victories, FSU's grip on the ACC is unmatched. Head coach Brian Pensky joins an elite group of coaches to win three straight titles, and veteran Ran Iwai celebrated her fifth conference title, making her one of only two Seminoles to reach this achievement.

All-Tournament Honors 

Huff earned ACC Tournament MVP honors, making her the fourth Seminole to achieve this in the last five seasons. Joining her on the All-Tournament team were Todd, Solai Washington, Jordynn Dudley, and Heather Gilchrist.

What’s Next 

The Seminoles now await the NCAA Women’s Soccer Tournament selection show on Monday, November 11, at 4 p.m. on NCAA.com, where they’ll find out their path in the national championship chase.

Read more here.

🔄 FSU Makes Major Staff Changes Amid Challenging Season 🔄

After a 52-3 defeat by Notre Dame left Florida State at 1-9, head coach Mike Norvell has announced that three coaches are parting ways with the program. Defensive coordinator Adam Fuller, offensive coordinator Alex Atkins, and wide receivers coach Ron Dugans have all been dismissed. Linebackers coach Randy Shannon will serve as interim defensive coordinator for the final two games of the season.

Norvell’s Statement and Acknowledgment of Team Standards 

Norvell expressed gratitude for the dedication Fuller, Atkins, and Dugans have shown over the past five seasons, highlighting that each contributed significantly to the program. However, he emphasized the need to return to “the Florida State standard,” a benchmark FSU has not met during this difficult season. Norvell noted that these were not easy decisions but were essential to guide the team back on a path of competitiveness and resilience.

Financial Impact of Contract Buyouts 

The coaching changes come with a substantial cost, as the Seminoles will be paying a combined $7.325 million in contract buyouts. Fuller and Atkins had both received contract extensions through 2026 after FSU’s 13-1 season last year, with Fuller’s buyout totaling $4 million and Atkins’ $2.7 million. Dugans, with one year left on his contract, will receive a buyout of $625,000. With the season still in progress, Norvell’s staff restructuring could potentially result in further changes—and added expenses—as the team seeks a turnaround.

Interim Adjustments and Next Steps for FSU 

With Shannon assuming the defensive coordinator role, the remaining staff will absorb additional responsibilities as FSU heads into its final two games. The timing of these changes aligns with FSU’s third and final bye week, giving the team a chance to regroup before hosting Charleston Southern on November 23 and closing the season with a rivalry game against Florida on November 30.

Program’s Future Direction and Recruiting Impact 

Norvell is expected to address the media on Monday to discuss the reasoning behind these moves and outline his vision for FSU’s future. With the early signing period approaching, these coaching adjustments are likely to play a significant role in upcoming recruiting decisions, as the Seminoles look to rebuild their roster and return to form.

While these changes reflect the urgency to revitalize FSU, they also signal a commitment to long-term growth, with Norvell determined to reestablish a winning culture. For Seminole fans, the hope is that these steps will lay the groundwork for a promising future.

Read more here, here, here, and here.

🔮 Potential DC Candidates to Rebuild FSU’s Defense 🔮 

With Adam Fuller’s departure, FSU is on the hunt for a new defensive coordinator to stabilize and elevate the program’s defensive performance. The next DC will need to drive FSU’s recruiting efforts for defensive talent and foster a solid defensive baseline for years to come. Here’s a look at some intriguing candidates who could fit the bill for the Seminoles:

Scott Symons, SMU Defensive Coordinator 

Symons has transformed SMU’s defense, pushing it into the Top 20 in Yards Per Play in 2024 after inheriting a unit ranked in the 100s. With previous ties to Norvell from their time together at Memphis, Symons has regional familiarity and a record of building a defense from the ground up.

Jonathan Patke, Duke Defensive Coordinator 

Patke has delivered disruption-heavy defenses, previously at Texas State and now Duke, where his units rank among the national leaders in sacks and tackles for loss. His resume includes roles with programs like Miami and Mississippi State, showing his versatility across different defensive systems.

Jim Leonhard, Denver Broncos DB Coach 

A proven defensive mind from his days at Wisconsin, where his defenses consistently ranked in the Top 15, Leonhard is known for producing elite, disciplined units. Though currently in the NFL, he could be a strong college option, especially if he’s open to exploring a return to the right program.

Corey Hetherman, Minnesota Defensive Coordinator 

Minnesota has ranked among the Top 20 defenses in Hetherman’s first season at the P4 level, with previous success at James Madison. While he lacks regional ties, Hetherman’s ability to build sound defenses could be appealing for FSU’s vision of defensive consistency.

Chris Hampton, Oregon Co-Defensive Coordinator/DBs Coach 

Hampton, with extensive coaching experience in the Southeast and impressive recruiting success, brings a well-rounded resume. He’s helped Oregon become a Top 10 pass defense this season and has developed top-tier defensive backs. His national-level recruiting ability could be an asset to FSU.

Greg Gasparato, Tulane Defensive Coordinator 

Gasparato has built tough defenses at Tulane and Troy, excelling in takeaways and sacks. With experience as a P4 position coach at Louisville, Gasparato could bring an aggressive, disciplined approach to FSU’s defense.

Mike Mickens, Notre Dame Passing Game Coordinator 

Mickens has quickly risen through the ranks, overseeing some of the top pass defenses in the country at Notre Dame. Known for his work developing NFL cornerbacks, his recruiting background and technical expertise make him a candidate with high upside, though he’s yet to serve as a full-time DC.

Derek Nicholson, Miami Co-Defensive Coordinator/LB Coach 

Nicholson, a former Seminole himself, brings energy and strong recruiting chops. His linebacker groups have been among the best, and he’s been influential in player development at Miami. While he’s not yet served as a full-time DC, his ties to FSU and familiarity with ACC defenses make him a compelling choice.

As FSU evaluates these potential candidates, the program is looking not only for defensive consistency but also for a leader who can help recruit and develop elite defensive talent—someone with both technical prowess and a commitment to the FSU vision.

Read more here.

🏐 FSU Volleyball Battles Past NC State for 10th ACC Win 🏐

The No. 24 FSU volleyball team (18-6, 10-4) secured a thrilling four-set victory over NC State (12-10, 7-7) on Sunday, winning 26-24, 25-16, 19-25, 25-23. This hard-fought win marked FSU’s 10th ACC victory of the season and improved the Seminoles to 38-3 against the Wolfpack since 2000.

Set-by-Set Highlights 

- First Set: FSU set the tone early, building a 10-6 lead with a 5-1 run. The Wolfpack rallied to keep it tight, forcing ties at 16 and 21. In the final moments, Khori Louis and Taylor Head combined for a crucial block, clinching the set 26-24.

- Second Set: Building on their momentum, the Seminoles powered to a 12-6 lead, ultimately taking the set comfortably at 25-16.

- Third Set: NC State found their stride in the third, keeping it close until a late 7-1 run allowed the Wolfpack to capture the set 25-19.

- Fourth Set: A back-and-forth battle ensued in the fourth, with both teams exchanging points until the set tied at 23. Iane Henke’s decisive kill and her combined block with Kelsey Perry secured the 25-23 win, sealing the match.

Standout Performances 

Audrey Koenig extended her double-digit kill streak to 21 matches, finishing with 12 kills and 10 digs. Taylor Head recorded an impressive double-double with 12 kills and 22 digs—her sixth in the last 10 matches. Emery Dupes and Kyleene Filimaua each added 10 digs, contributing to FSU’s defensive strength.

Up Next 

The Seminoles face a challenging matchup against No. 1 Pitt on Friday, November 15, at 7 p.m. on ACCNX.

Read more here.

🎙️ Recruits React to FSU’s Coaching Staff Overhaul 🎙️ 

Florida State’s decision to part ways with offensive coordinator Alex Atkins, defensive coordinator Adam Fuller, and wide receivers coach Ron Dugans sent waves through the college football community, and recruits took notice. Here’s a look at how FSU’s current commits and top prospects are responding to the news, revealing a mix of shock, understanding, and trust in head coach Mike Norvell’s vision.

Unshaken in Commitment 

• 3-star DB Tedarius Hughes (FSU commit): "Shocking news, but I’m still 100% committed to Coach Norvell."

• 3-star EDGE Darryll Desir (FSU commit): "I mean, stuff happens, nothing changes for me."

• 2026 4-star ATH Darryon Williams (FSU commit): "I can say I’m very shocked about the news."

• 2026 4-star QB Brady Smigiel (FSU commit): "Just trusting Coach Norvell and his plan."

Understanding the Need for Change 

• 4-star LB TJ Alford (Ohio State commit): "That is crazy. Things needed to change, though."

• 4-star DB Greg "Zae" Thomas (FSU commit): "It’s tough. I had a great relationship with him (Fuller), but at the same time, something obviously wasn’t working, and changes had to be made."

• 3-star DL TJ Griffin: "This is new to me, but I think they’ll bring in someone like Coach Odell who knows how a good defense should be run."

Surprised 

• 4-star WR Jayvan Boggs (UCF commit): "Very shocked, but it’s part of college football."

• 3-star DB Darryl Bell (FSU commit): "I'm definitely sad that he’s gone, but Norvell had to make a business decision to better the team."

• 4-star OL Mario Nash (FSU commit): "I’m shocked, man."

• 2026 4-star S Tedarius Hughes (FSU commit): "Definitely a shocker, not gonna lie. But I’m still fully committed to Coach Norvell and trust what he’s doing."

The reaction from FSU’s recruiting class reflects a blend of loyalty and trust in the program’s future direction, even amid the significant staff changes. With Coach Norvell’s continued outreach to these prospects, the Seminoles look to maintain stability within their 2025 class and reinforce the trust recruits have placed in the program’s evolving vision.

Read more here and here.

🌟 FSU Lands Surprise Commitments from 2025 DE Twins Darryll & Mandrell Desir 🌟

Florida State’s 2025 recruiting class gained a nice boost on Sunday with the commitment of three-star defensive end twins Darryll and Mandrell Desir from Miami Norland High School. This unexpected move comes just a day after the pair decommitted from UCF, and the Desir brothers are now set to officially visit FSU on November 23 for the Charleston Southern game.

Highly Ranked Prospects 

Osceola Recruiting Analyst Charles Fishbein rates Darryll as the 10th-best defensive end in Florida and Mandrell as the 17th-best. At 6'4" and 225 pounds, Darryll is a top-50 edge rusher nationally and brings a relentless energy to the field with his pass-rushing ability and strong hands, allowing him to break through blocks with ease. Mandrell, standing at 6'3" and 235 pounds, is a quick, fast-twitch player who excels in pressuring the quarterback and has the speed to be a significant presence off the edge.

Building Relationships with FSU’s Staff 

FSU’s linebackers coach Randy Shannon and defensive ends coach John Papuchis played key roles in securing the twins' commitment. Shannon, an alumnus of Norland, reconnected with his roots, while Papuchis served as the primary contact in the final stages of their recruitment. Darryll shared his enthusiasm for FSU, noting a strong rapport with the staff and an appreciation for the Seminoles' environment.

Strengthening the 2025 Class 

The Desir twins are FSU’s first two defensive end commitments in the 2025 cycle, joining defensive tackle prospect Kevin Wynn as the program looks to reinforce its defensive front. Their commitment brings FSU’s 2025 class to 13 players, and the brothers’ commitment is a promising addition to bolster the defensive line talent.

With the Desir twins on board, FSU’s defensive outlook continues to grow brighter as the team strengthens its South Florida pipeline and builds momentum ahead of National Signing Day.

Read more here and here.

And that’s a wrap!

From another thrilling ACC title for Seminole Soccer to major moves in FSU Football’s coaching staff, there’s no shortage of buzz heading into the final stretch of the season. As our volleyball team gears up for another big showdown and new faces bolster our recruiting class, Seminole Nation is looking to the future with anticipation.

Stay tuned and keep that Seminole spirit strong! 🏹