Stockstill Urges Florida State Fans to Stay Loyal

Florida State interim coach Rick Stockstill urged Seminoles fans to remain loyal after Mike Norvell was fired following a home loss to Clemson. He spoke at his first press conference on Monday, with four games left in the 2026 season.
On November 3, 2026, Florida State was trying to regroup after firing head coach Mike Norvell following a disappointing home defeat to Clemson. The rivalry game drew a mostly empty stadium in the fourth quarter and did not sell out. Interim coach Rick Stockstill addressed the media on Monday, before he had spoken to the entire team.
Stockstill acknowledged that fans had faced difficult seasons but urged them not to let the program’s recent struggles weaken their connection to Florida State. He said supporters should remain patient and loyal through the downturn, and pointed to the possibility of better times ahead.
He also said recruits should be drawn to the school itself, rather than choosing it for other factors. Stockstill recognized fans’ frustration and disappointment, while expressing confidence that Florida State would recover. He said supporters who stay through the difficult period could share in the program’s success if it improves.
Florida State has four games remaining in the 2026 season. The Seminoles are scheduled to travel to Boston College for their next game, with kickoff listed for noon Eastern on the ACC Network.