Florida State’s 27-24 loss to SMU on Monday night may actually serve the program’s long-term interests, despite the disappointing result in Tallahassee. While the Seminoles had opportunities to upset the ranked Mustangs, particularly given SMU’s four turnovers, the manner of the defeat reveals fundamental problems that a narrow victory would have masked.
The Seminoles struggled significantly across all phases of play during the contest. Quarterback Ashton Daniels failed to establish himself as a passing threat, forcing coach Mike Norvell to rely heavily on ground-based offensive schemes. Florida State’s defense, meanwhile, allowed 585 yards of offense and consistently failed to capitalize on third-down situations despite the turnover advantage. Special teams also created concerns, requiring a timeout due to personnel issues for the second consecutive week.
Had Florida State managed to win under these circumstances, it likely would not have restored fan confidence or altered perceptions of the program’s trajectory. The stadium echoed with calls for Norvell’s removal, suggesting supporters remain deeply skeptical regardless of outcome. A questionable victory born from SMU’s mistakes rather than FSU’s competence would have only delayed inevitable program decisions rather than genuinely addressing systemic issues.
The loss, while difficult, provides clarity about the team’s actual condition heading into the season and may ultimately prove more beneficial than false hope generated by an unconvincing win.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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