**CLEMSON, S.C. — An Honest Look at Florida State’s Season So Far**
The most honest assessment of Florida State came from coach Mike Norvell a few weeks ago during FSU’s second bye week. “I know what we’re capable of, and I also know that we’re capable of giving others opportunities if we’re not our best,” Norvell said. That statement perfectly captures both the high points and the struggles the Seminoles have experienced this season.
FSU showcased its potential with a dominant 42-7 win over Wake Forest just a week ago. However, the highs were quickly tempered by a disappointing 24-10 loss at Clemson on Saturday. The Seminoles essentially hit the self-destruct button in that game.
There were several costly mistakes, including quarterback Tommy Castellanos’ red-zone fumble and a critical fourth-down drop by a wide-open Randy Pittman that could have resulted in a big gain. FSU also committed its first penalty of the night in the third quarter, negating a key first-down run.
“When you have drops, when you have missed chances that are critical plays, when you have penalties that show up at inopportune times, it’s hard to overcome that,” Norvell lamented after the game.
Here are five things we learned from FSU’s latest outing:
### 1. FSU’s Drop Issues Returned
The Seminoles were plagued by five drops, all of which killed promising drives. Squirrel White, Jaylin Lucas, Micahi Danzy, Ousmane Kromah, and Randy Pittman each let catchable passes hit the ground. This is a noticeable decline considering FSU had just eight drops combined in its first eight games. The receivers are getting open and running routes well — so is this a lack of focus, pressing, or a combination of factors?
### 2. Seminoles Struggle to Finish Drives
FSU had multiple opportunities inside Clemson territory but managed to put up only 10 points. Castellanos’ red-zone fumble was a costly turnover, while Jake Weinberg missed a 40-yard field-goal attempt early in the third quarter (though he redeemed himself later with a 46-yard field goal). A critical fourth-quarter drive ended with Clemson stopping FSU on fourth down. Trailing 18-0 in the second quarter and 24-7 late in the game, FSU relied heavily on Castellanos’ arm, who threw 43 times. This pass-heavy approach limited the Seminoles’ usual strength, as they ran the ball just 26 times — a sharp departure from offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn’s preferred balanced attack.
### 3. Duce Robinson Emerges as a Go-To Target
At Southern Cal, Duce Robinson was viewed mainly as a deep threat rather than a well-rounded receiver. But since transferring to FSU, he has been a consistent performer. Robinson hauled in nine catches for 124 yards against Clemson alone. Over two seasons at USC, he totaled 747 receiving yards, but he has already amassed 813 yards and four touchdowns this season at Florida State on 43 receptions. While redshirt freshman Micahi Danzy is emerging (23 catches, 522 yards, two touchdowns), Robinson remains Castellanos’ top target.
### 4. Seminoles Are Willing to Fight
FSU lacked fight and leadership earlier in the season, but despite a 4-5 record, the team has shown a newfound willingness to compete and battle through adversity. The defense played on its heels early against Clemson but held the Tigers to just 98 rushing yards (2.7 yards per carry). Clemson’s second touchdown was set up by FSU’s failed fourth-down conversion—the one that hinged on Pittman’s dropped pass. “It’s a game of inches,” Castellanos said. “It’s a game called life. Guys got to learn from it. We’re still not going to quit. We’re going to continue to fight, no matter how frustrating it gets, no matter how close we get.”
FSU now has a chance to beat rival Florida and become bowl-eligible. The question remains: will they keep fighting?
### 5. Norvell’s Future Remains Uncertain
Every performance now is under a microscope. The team’s weekly results serve as a referendum on coach Mike Norvell’s tenure. With the Seminoles dropping five of their last six games, the pressure is mounting. Several losses have been self-inflicted through missed opportunities and costly errors.
Norvell’s buyout stands at $58 million at season’s end, which has thus far bought him time. But how much longer will Florida State’s fans and administrators remain patient? Wins over Alabama and Florida would go a long way toward soothing concerns, as would finishing at least 6-6.
FSU’s proud tradition is to compete for championships and dominate its rivals. However, the program currently falls short of those standards, especially after losses to Miami and Clemson.
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As the season enters its crucial final stretch, all eyes will be on Florida State to see if they can rally for a strong finish—and if Norvell can steer the program back on course.
https://www.sun-sentinel.com/2025/11/09/fsus-loss-to-clemson-drops-stalled-drives-and-hot-seat-gets-hotter/