Florida State conducted its final open media practice on Wednesday as the Seminoles gear up to face the Cal Bears at home this weekend. The program has faced criticism since the season began, starting with a 0-3 record after losses to Georgia Tech, Boston College, and Memphis. Fans are worried about the team’s performance on both offense and defense. Although the defense showed improvement in their 20-12 loss to Memphis, there were still several vulnerabilities, especially in stopping the run.
During Wednesday’s practice, the defense displayed high energy, creating a positive atmosphere throughout the session. Head coach Mike Norvell remarked that it was “one of their better practices,” which is an encouraging sign.
Norvell emphasized the need for communication and a strong team identity if the Seminoles hope to turn their season around. He noted that while energy is important, focus and discipline are crucial for success. Defensive backs Quindarrius Jones and Edwin Joseph played key roles in boosting team morale and energy during practice.
Joseph has made significant progress this past month after recovering from an injury that sidelined him last season. This renewed energy could be a silver lining for a team that has had a challenging start. Florida State will face an undefeated Cal team that also prioritizes the run game. The matchup is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. EST at Doak Campbell Stadium and will be broadcast on ESPN2.
“I believe our defense had one of their stronger practices. The energy and competitiveness were evident,” Norvell stated. “I appreciated their performance, especially their effective communication. You could really feel their presence during practice today.”
Communication has been a recurring theme this season, and establishing a stronger identity is essential if the Seminoles hope to turn their season around.
“We’re actively working on that. We want to create a distinct identity and personality, so that when players step onto the field, they give it their all.”
Norvell has repeatedly emphasized the importance of “controlled emotion” in play. After a Tuesday practice where players seemed to struggle with maintaining composure, they refocused and channeled their intensity into a productive Wednesday practice.
“You can have all the energy in the world, but without focus, discipline, and communication, it won’t be beneficial,” Norvell explained. “What I liked today was that I could feel that focus and saw how well the guys performed.”
Defensive backs Quindarrius Jones and Edwin Joseph were key in boosting team energy, motivating their teammates and enhancing competition on both sides of the ball.
Norvell noted that Joseph has shown significant improvement over the past month after dealing with an injury last season.
“Quin got some playing time last year. Ed, having been injured, has made considerable progress recently, and his presence is becoming more noticeable.”
This shift in energy could be a positive sign for a team facing a challenging start to the season.
Florida State will face an undefeated Cal team that, like Georgia Tech and Boston College, places a strong emphasis on the run game. The matchup is set for 7:00 p.m. EST at Doak Campbell Stadium and will be broadcast on ESPN2.
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