Yesterday’s Poll Results

Today’s Poll

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Happy Monday, Seminole!

Here’s what’s on the docket today:

📊 FSU vs Charleston Southern: Game Preview & Insights
The Seminoles prepare to face Charleston Southern on Saturday, with an opportunity to evaluate emerging talent amidst coaching changes. Can FSU maintain its perfect record against the Buccaneers?

🏈 Spotlight on Freshmen Amid Staff Shakeup
With recent staff dismissals, FSU’s game against Charleston Southern offers a closer look at the team’s young talent. Will we see more snaps for rising stars like Landen Thomas and Charles Lester?

🏈 FSU Must Overhaul Roster to Restore Winning Culture
Mike Norvell faces tough decisions this offseason, from addressing cultural issues to overhauling the roster. What will it take to bring winning football back to Tallahassee?

🏀 FSU Women’s Basketball Hosts NC Central
The Seminoles aim to keep their momentum going as they welcome NC Central to the Donald L. Tucker Center. With an explosive offense and standout performances from Makayla Timpson, FSU is ready to shine.

🏐 FSU Volleyball Falls to No. 10 SMU, Gears Up for Georgia Tech
After a hard-fought loss to SMU, the Seminoles return home to face No. 15 Georgia Tech in a pivotal ACC matchup.

🏈 FSU’s Coaching Overhaul: Target Traits
The search is on for four critical coaching positions. From recruiting dynamos to strategic innovators, what will these hires mean for FSU’s future?

📊 FSU vs Charleston Southern: Game Preview & Insights 📊 

Florida State welcomes Charleston Southern to Doak Campbell Stadium this Saturday, November 23, at 1:30 p.m. The game will air on ACC Network Extra, and while the Seminoles hold a 2-0 all-time record against the Buccaneers, this matchup provides more than just a historical edge.

Matchup Overview

Charleston Southern enters the game with a 1-10 record and has lost their last nine games. They’ve struggled offensively, ranking near the bottom in FCS for scoring (14.8 PPG) and total offense (267.4 YPG).

In their previous meetings, FSU dominated with decisive wins in 2011 (62-10) and 2016 (52-8).

Players to Watch

• Charleston Southern Standouts:

  • RB Autavius Ison: Leads the team with 764 rushing yards and four touchdowns.

  • WR Chris Rhone: Averages 16.7 yards per reception with four receiving touchdowns.

  • LB Steve Zayachkowsky: Team leader in tackles (74), with 4.5 TFLs and 3.0 sacks.

• FSU Freshmen Watch:
  With the recent coaching changes, fans may see increased playing time for emerging talents like Landen Thomas, Lawayne McCoy, and Charles Lester.

Key Stats to Know

• Offensive Struggles:
  Ranked 120th in FCS scoring, the Buccaneers have eclipsed 14 points in only two games since October.

• Defensive Resilience:
  Allowing 25.5 points per game (63rd in FCS), their defense has shown strength, particularly in pass defense (39th).

• Turnover Battle:
  Charleston Southern has forced 18 takeaways this season but turned the ball over 20 times, resulting in a -0.18 turnover margin.

• Special Teams Impact:
  Junior punter Gilbert Brown averages 45.85 yards per punt, ranking among the best in FCS.

What to Expect

While FSU is expected to dominate, the game offers an opportunity to evaluate young talent, integrate new coaching dynamics, and potentially see some offensive fireworks. Keep an eye on how the Seminoles handle their rotations and whether Charleston Southern can make adjustments to keep the game competitive.

Read more here.

🏈 Spotlight on Freshmen Amid Staff Shakeup 🏈

Florida State’s upcoming game against Charleston Southern takes on added intrigue following the dismissal of three key coaches, including coordinators Alex Atkins and Adam Fuller. While major schematic changes are unlikely, all eyes will be on the Seminoles’ young talent as they potentially earn extended playing time.

What to Watch

• Freshmen Snap Counts: With depth and athleticism advantages, the game could showcase FSU’s 2024 signees, particularly if the Seminoles build a lead in the second half.

• Position Battles: The wide receiver and defensive back rotations will be worth monitoring, especially with Mike Norvell taking a more hands-on role with receivers.

Freshmen to Keep an Eye On

• Offense:

  • Landen Thomas & Amaree Williams: Both tight ends have seen significant snaps lately, with Thomas leading freshmen in receptions and yards.

  • Receivers: Lawayne McCoy, Elijah Moore, and B.J. Gibson could see expanded roles under Norvell’s direct guidance.

• Defense:

  • Defensive Backs: Charles Lester and Cai Bates have flashed potential in limited action, while Ricky Knight has impressed in practices.

  • Linebackers: With Randy Shannon stepping in as DC, freshmen Jayden Parrish and Timir Hickman-Collins might get late-game reps.

• Special Teams: Could we see the debut of freshman kicker Jake Weinberg?

Debut Watch
True freshman offensive linemen like Tye Hylton, Manasse Itete, and Jonathan Daniels have yet to see the field but could earn their first snaps. However, veterans Andre’ Otto and Lucas Simmons remain more likely options for extended time.

Read more here.

🏈 FSU Must Overhaul Roster to Restore Winning Culture 🏈

Mike Norvell has already begun reshaping the Florida State program by making significant coaching changes. However, according to Noles247, a comprehensive roster overhaul is now critical to address the team’s struggles and restore its competitive edge.

Talent Gaps Holding FSU Back

While FSU’s roster has promising underclassmen, missteps in talent evaluation and overconfidence in certain positions have contributed to the team’s struggles. Missed gambles at wide receiver, an ineffective QB transfer evaluation, and a lack of depth at tight end and offensive line have left the offense ranked among the worst in Power 4 football. Defensively, underperformance at safety and defensive end has compounded these issues.

The Need for Cultural Change

Cultural issues have also emerged, with reports of players tuning out coaches and poor discipline leading to selfish penalties during games. Norvell’s staff must identify and remove players who lack the buy-in necessary to support a winning culture. This reset will require honest assessments of both talent and attitude.

Hard Decisions Ahead

Norvell cannot afford to repeat past mistakes. Last offseason, some players deemed unable to contribute were allowed to remain on the team and even saw playing time—a decision that now seems like a red flag. Moving forward, players who haven’t cracked the two-deep or have been surpassed by younger talent must be encouraged to explore opportunities elsewhere.

The Path Forward

Norvell has already taken bold steps by firing three longtime assistants. Now, he must follow through with a roster purge to make room for a major influx of talent from the transfer portal. These decisions will be difficult, but they are necessary to create a foundation for sustained success.

With a pivotal 2025 season ahead, Norvell must ensure that every player on the roster is committed to turning the program around and capable of contributing to winning football.

🏀 FSU Women’s Basketball Hosts NC Central 🏀

The Florida State women’s basketball team (3-1) continues its homestand on Monday, welcoming North Carolina Central (0-5) to the Donald L. Tucker Center at 6 p.m.

Team Highlights:

• Offensive Power: FSU ranks eighth nationally in scoring offense (96.8 PPG).

• Makayla Timpson: Leads the nation in rebounds (15.0 RPG) and had a career-high 38 points in the win over Samford.

Game Info:

• Where to Watch: ACC Network Extra and Seminole Sports Network on 96.5 The Spear and Sirius XM.

• Tickets: Available through the FSU Ticket Office.

Let’s see if the Seminoles can keep their momentum rolling!

🏐 FSU Volleyball Falls to No. 10 SMU, Gears Up for Georgia Tech 🏐

The Florida State volleyball team (18-8, 10-6) faced a tough challenge on Sunday, falling to No. 10 SMU (21-6, 13-3) in three sets (16-25, 28-30, 16-25).

Match Highlights

• Set One: Taylor Head started strong, but SMU’s 13-3 run midway through the set sealed the 25-16 victory.

• Set Two: A back-and-forth battle saw FSU lead 22-19 before SMU rallied to claim the set 30-28. Despite multiple set points, the Noles couldn’t convert.

• Set Three: FSU led early, but a 9-2 SMU run shifted momentum, closing the set and the match.

Standout Performers

• Taylor Head and Audrey Koenig: Each tallied 10 kills, leading the Seminole offense.

What’s Next

FSU returns to Tully Gym on Friday to host No. 15 Georgia Tech at 6:30 p.m. on ACCNX.

🏈 FSU’s Coaching Overhaul: Target Traits 🏈

Florida State is deep into the search for four critical coaching hires: offensive coordinator, defensive coordinator, wide receivers coach, and offensive line coach. Each position presents unique challenges and opportunities for reshaping the team’s future.

Wide Receivers Coach: A Recruiting Dynamo

The Seminoles need a WR coach who can recruit elite talent while fostering development. With Florida’s talent-rich pipeline and stiff in-state competition, the right hire could position FSU to land top-tier playmakers and revitalize the passing game.

Defensive Coordinator: Recruiting and Scheme

The next DC must excel both in strategy and recruiting. They need to bring defensive creativity and the ability to connect with players, ensuring buy-in from a unit that requires an infusion of talent. Independence in managing the defense is a must, as Norvell focuses on offensive priorities.

Offensive Coordinator: A Perfect Partner for Norvell

The OC hire offers a chance to spark innovation. Whether Norvell retains play-calling duties or not, the new coordinator must align with his offensive philosophy while injecting fresh ideas. A strong recruiter will also be vital to retooling the offense.

Offensive Line Coach: A Foundation Builder

Consistency and fundamentals are paramount for the next OL coach. While recruiting is important, the primary goal is establishing a high floor of performance, allowing playmakers to thrive and restoring faith in the trenches.

Read more here.

And that’s a wrap!

As Florida State gears up for Charleston Southern and an important offseason, the stakes are high both on and off the field. From showcasing emerging talent to making pivotal coaching hires, the pieces are moving to shape the Seminoles' future. Your passion, insights, and engagement drive this journey—whether it’s cheering on the Noles or weighing in on key decisions.

Thanks for starting your week with The Chief Brief—stay tuned, stay informed, and as always: Go Noles! 🍢