Florida State will play at No. 10 Alabama in Tuscaloosa on Saturday, with coach Mike Norvell working through a change in athletic department leadership and several linebacker absences. The Seminoles are 1-1 after losing to SMU, but Norvell said the result has not reduced his confidence in the team.
Freshmen Izayia Williams and Daylen Green will miss the rest of the season. Veteran Blake Nichelson is expected back this year, though he will be sidelined for an extended stretch. Norvell said those openings may give other players chances on defense and special teams.
Michael Alford was fired as athletic director, and Bruce Warwick is serving on an interim basis. Norvell praised Alford and Laura Alford’s contributions to the program, called Warwick an experienced professional and said the team would continue preparing. Players had Monday off, and Norvell planned to address the leadership change with them Tuesday.
Norvell said quarterback Ashton Daniels had a strong week, including his practice habits and focus on controllable areas. He described Alabama’s defense as fast and explosive, with a bigger front than last season, and said Florida State must maintain offensive balance, win individual matchups and generate big plays. He also called Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell a major running threat outside the pocket.
The report was published Sept. 14, 2026.
