Coaching carousel 2026: Florida State fires Mike Norvell amid wider turnover
Florida State dismissed Mike Norvell on Nov. 1 as the 2026 coaching carousel gains momentum across the FBS.
Coaching carousel finally spins
After a few false starts, the college football coaching carousel began moving in late October. The 2026‑27 cycle follows a record‑breaking 2025 offseason that saw 32 new FBS head coaches, including 17 in the power conferences.
Florida State fires Mike Norvell
Florida State announced the dismissal of Mike Norvell on Nov. 1 after a loss to Clemson. Norvell’s seven‑year run included an undefeated campaign in 2023, yet the team was left out of the College Football Playoff. Questions now arise about the financial attractiveness of the FSU job.
Other recent firings
Maryland – Mike Locksley was removed halfway through his eighth season. He posted a 39‑54 overall record, with the Terps posting 4‑8 records in the two seasons leading up to the decision.
NC State – Dave Doeren was let go after 14 years following a 31‑28 loss that dropped the Wolfpack to 1‑3 in ACC play. His teams typically won seven to nine games each season, but recent setbacks prompted the change.
Potential candidates
Among the names being mentioned for the open positions are former NC State quarterback Philip Rivers, who has coached high school football in Alabama and interviewed for an NFL job, offensive coordinator Shannon Dawson, and Memphis coach Charles Huff, a Maryland native.
Tracking the moves
CBS Sports continues to monitor every hire in the 2026‑27 cycle, assigning grades to each appointment as the season approaches.
