Mike Norvell didn’t hold back after Florida State’s double-overtime loss to No. 3 Miami, taking direct aim at the officiating that helped define the Seminoles’ 43-35 defeat.
The Florida State head coach called the holding penalty that wiped out a touchdown in the second overtime an “absolute joke,” and he also questioned how the final interception was reviewed after Miami’s Bryce Fitzgerald was credited with the game-sealing pick.
The most immediate flashpoint came on fourth-and-21 in the second overtime, with FSU trailing 43-35. Offensive lineman Xavier Chaplin was flagged for holding, erasing Micahi Danzy’s 36-yard touchdown catch and forcing the Seminoles to keep pressing just to extend the game.
“We had to go convert the two-point play,” Norvell said. “But for those kids not to be able to finish the game on the field in that moment ... it’s really disappointing.”
Norvell said he had already sent the play to the ACC and talked with conference officiating leadership, but as of Monday’s interview, he still had not gotten the final response. He also said a similar play earlier in the game went uncalled.
“I haven’t got the final response from them, but if it’s anything less than what I said ... tells me everything I need to know.”
Norvell’s frustration didn’t stop there. He said the review of Florida State’s final offensive snap should have included the issue of simultaneous possession.
“From what I’ve been told ... simultaneous possession never even came up in the conversation of review,” Norvell continued. "You got two guys going up for a catch, and when they both come to the ground, simultaneous possession, that has to be a part of the discussion."
Officials upheld the interception ruling after review, and Miami escaped with the 43-35 win.
Florida State now heads into its second bye week before hosting Clemson on Halloween night. The game is expected to kick off at 7:00 p.m.
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