Why Mike Norvell didn't go to Alabama in a major college football 'what if' moment
After Nick Saban retired in January 2024, the Florida State head coach almost went to Tuscaloosa.
Florida State head coach Mike Norvell was a top target for Alabama when Nick Saban retired in January 2024. Norvell, along with Washington's Kaleb DeBoer, was one of the athletic director's most coveted options. At the time, Norvell was leading Florida State to a 10-3 record in 2022 and had the Noles as a CFP contender. However, a star quarterback injury led to Alabama securing the bid instead.
Norvell expressed his respect for Alabama and the position but ultimately decided to stay at FSU, signing a contract extension that saw his salary increase to $10 million through 2031. Despite his success at FSU, his 2024 team had the worst record in school history, and Florida State has since fired athletic director Michael Alford.
With the upcoming road game against No. 10 Alabama, Norvell's buyout of $46.7 million if fired would likely put him in the school's crosshairs.
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