Mike Norvell Takes Over Play-Calling Duties as Gus Malzahn Retires; FSU Athletics Gearing Up for Busy February
Florida State’s football program is entering a new chapter-again. Head coach Mike Norvell announced during a press conference yesterday that he will resume play-calling duties following the retirement of offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn.
While the timing may have caught some off guard, the decision itself wasn’t entirely out of left field. There had been whispers that Malzahn might step away after the 2025 season, but after navigating both Early Signing Day and the transfer portal cycle, he ultimately chose to hang it up now.
With Malzahn stepping aside, FSU isn’t scrambling. Wide receivers coach Tim Harris Jr. has been promoted to offensive coordinator and will handle all other aspects of the role outside of play-calling. It’s a big step up for Harris, who’s earned respect within the program for his development work and leadership in the WR room.
Norvell stepping back into the play-caller’s seat brings a familiar rhythm to the offense. He’s no stranger to dialing up plays and has a clear vision for how he wants this offense to operate. That said, the quarterback situation just got a lot more interesting.
Ashton Daniels had been viewed as the frontrunner heading into the offseason, but with Norvell back calling the shots, the door swings open a bit wider. JUCO transfer Malachi Marshall might be the most natural fit for Norvell’s up-tempo, RPO-heavy scheme, but there’s a catch-Marshall doesn’t arrive until the summer.
That leaves spring ball as a proving ground for Daniels and the rest of the QB room. Expect a full-on competition, and don’t be surprised if things stay unsettled well into fall camp.
Around the FSU Athletics Landscape
While football headlines dominate, there’s plenty happening across Florida State athletics.
Men’s Basketball is riding a bit of a hot streak, winning three of their last four. They’ll look to keep that momentum rolling when they head to South Bend this Saturday to face Notre Dame.
Coach Kevin Nickelberry and his squad are finding ways to win by committee, getting meaningful contributions up and down the roster. It’s not flashy, but it’s effective-and in February, that’s what matters most.
Women’s Basketball gets back on the court Thursday with a tough road test in Raleigh against NC State. In the meantime, fans and families can circle the calendar-registration is now open for Coach Brooke Wyckoff’s summer camps. A great chance for the next generation of hoopers to learn from one of the best in the business.
**Softball season is officially here. ** Opening Day is Thursday, and the Seminoles will kick things off against Samford.
This program has been a perennial powerhouse, and expectations are high once again. The season starts now, and so does the journey back to Oklahoma City.
Baseball isn’t far behind. The Seminoles open their season in less than two weeks, and ticket sales for February games are already underway. With a fresh slate and a talented roster, this team is looking to make noise early.
Pro Noles Update
Jordynn Dudley, a two-time national champion, is moving on from Tallahassee as she prepares for the next chapter with Gotham FC. Her impact on the Florida State soccer program can’t be overstated, and now she’s ready to bring that same energy to the pro level.
Meanwhile, defensive lineman Darrell Jackson Jr. has been making the rounds at the Shrine Bowl, meeting with both the Carolina Panthers and Green Bay Packers. His size and athleticism have been drawing attention, and with the NFL Draft on the horizon, he’s a name to watch.
The Bottom Line
From coaching changes to spring competitions, from hoops heating up to softball’s first pitch, February is shaping up to be a busy-and potentially pivotal-month in Tallahassee. Whether it’s Norvell’s offense taking shape or FSU athletes making waves at the next level, there’s no shortage of storylines to follow. Buckle up.