Florida State University (FSU) faces significant challenges as it adapts to the rapidly evolving world of college football, which has seen increased realignment, the introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL), and the rise of the transfer portal. The changes have shifted the landscape of college sports, and only a handful of programs are currently positioned as dominant within the 136-school Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). The days of watching players stay for multiple seasons at one school are likely over, and the rising cost of attending games has added pressure on fans.
FSU’s recent struggles, including a 2-10 finish after a strong 13-1 season and an Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) championship, have left many fans disillusioned. However, head coach Mike Norvell is working hard to rebuild the program through coaching changes, roster management, and strategic initiatives like his restructured contract, which includes a voluntary salary cut to fund the “Vision of Excellence” program aimed at improving the student-athlete experience. Despite these efforts, many FSU supporters feel uncertain about the future, with some voicing frustration over the current state of college football.
FSU is financially secure, ranking first in the ACC in donations from 2005 to 2022, but it still faces challenges in keeping pace with other schools, especially those in the SEC and Big Ten. Even with affluent alumni and boosters, many fans are feeling the strain of increasing costs, particularly as ticket prices rise. Some local fans, like Lea Ann Myers, are finding it hard to continue attending games due to the financial burden.
FSU is investing heavily in its athletics program, including renovations to Doak Campbell Stadium, a growing emphasis on NIL, and efforts to exit the ACC in search of better media revenue. Athletics director Michael Alford has been aggressive in positioning FSU for success in this new era, acknowledging that the program’s identity has been built on overcoming challenges. However, not all decisions, such as the stadium’s renovation and price hikes for season tickets, have been popular with supporters.
The ongoing changes in college football, driven by the need for greater revenue and influence from television networks, are creating tension. The 12-team College Football Playoff has been criticized for favoring historically strong programs, while the expanded role of NIL and the transfer portal continues to shift the dynamics of the sport.
Despite the challenges, college football remains a beloved part of American culture, with programs like FSU continuing to draw large crowds and TV audiences. In 2023, FSU ranked 19th in home game attendance, with an average of 78,711 fans per game. Yet, the widening gap between elite programs and others is raising questions about the sustainability of the current system.
FSU fans are grappling with the impact of these changes, with some questioning how the school can remain successful without alienating its loyal supporters. One long-time booster expressed frustration over being priced out of his seats due to stadium renovations, reflecting the broader sentiment that many dedicated fans are feeling disconnected from the program they love. Despite these struggles, the fanbase remains hopeful that FSU can navigate the current challenges and emerge stronger in the future.