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Florida State at The Voice of College Football episodes

October 14How will the next chapter go in the Florida State-Miami rivalry? / Florida State PrimeTime LIVE 30
Florida State Primetime LIVE 30 — “How will the next chapter go in the Florida State-Miami rivalry?”
Host: Jackson Burleson (FSUVOCFB)
Guest: Anthony Aguirre (Miami Hurricanes beat writer, Roundtable Sports; MiamiVOCFB host)
Presented by: FanDuel
Focus: Miami–Florida State rivalry preview (Hard Rock Stadium, 7 p.m.)
Episode Overview
Jackson and Anthony break down the current state of the in-state rivalry. They discuss Miami’s dominance under Mario Cristobal, Florida State’s sharp decline under Mike Norvell, betting odds, key players (especially Darian Mensah and Malachi Toney), defensive matchups, FSU’s road struggles, and score predictions. The tone is candid about the gap between the programs right now.
Key Themes
Rivalry history and current imbalance (Miami on top)

FSU’s multi-year downfall under Norvell

Cristobal’s former-player mentality and culture impact

Spread and expectations (Miami -21.5)

Darian Mensah’s performance under pressure

Malachi Toney and Miami’s WR depth

FSU defensive issues and inability to sustain momentum

Ashton Daniels / Deuce Robinson evaluation

Miami’s run game depth

Score predictions and Norvell’s future
Timestamped Notes
00:00–01:35 — Introduction & rivalry framing
Jackson opens with the Miami–FSU preview at Hard Rock Stadium. Anthony notes the close proximity of the campuses and calls the Florida in-state triangle one of the best rivalries in college football. Both stress the deep history.
01:35–03:40 — Evolution of the rivalry
Jackson asks how the rivalry has evolved. Anthony says it is currently lopsided. Miami has been the stronger program recently; FSU is facing questions about how long Norvell’s support lasts. He contrasts Miami’s “Is the U back?” period ending with FSU’s “shocking downfall” from a recent national-championship contender to consistent mediocrity.
03:40–05:15 — FSU’s downfall & Miami’s rise
Jackson calls it potentially the biggest downfall in college football history (from near-undefeated/playoff years to years of mediocrity). Anthony agrees. Discussion of Cristobal changing the culture as a former Miami player. Anthony says Cristobal won’t openly admit how much the rivalry means, but it clearly does.
05:15–07:05 — Cristobal’s rivalry mentality
Anthony details Cristobal’s history with the series (including the 1989 game). He notes Cristobal’s “business as usual” approach has carried over to the roster (“1-0 every week,” no social media talking). Last year’s win in Tallahassee is cited as an example of wanting to dominate both Florida and FSU.
07:05–09:10 — Betting odds & spread reaction
Jackson pulls up FanDuel odds. Miami is favored by 21.5. Both agree the number is generous to FSU; Anthony thought it could be closer to 28–30. He highlights Miami’s defensive line depth replacing edge rushers and Mensah’s efficiency.
09:10–11:05 — Darian Mensah under pressure
Anthony says Mensah’s ability under pressure has been a strength (statistically the best in FBS under pressure). References the difficult throw to Malachi Toney against Clemson. Jackson notes FSU’s tendency to blitz because of secondary issues.
11:05–13:20 — What FSU’s defense must do
Anthony’s main advice: win one-on-ones at the line of scrimmage. Miami’s offensive line is relatively new with questions at guard. Ryan Rodriguez has been elite; other spots are less settled. Generating pressure on Mensah is critical.
13:20–16:00 — FSU’s defensive inconsistencies & Malachi Toney
Jackson notes FSU’s explosive-play issues and inability to finish drives (citing Louisville). Anthony highlights Toney’s dominance (including a program-record receiving game) despite being a reclassified sophomore. He stresses Miami’s WR depth beyond Toney (Cooper Barquet, others, Daylon Upshaw stepping up).
16:00–19:40 — Can FSU keep it close? Road struggles & schedule context
Jackson points out FSU’s road losing streak (1,000+ days) and momentum issues. Anthony is blunt: FSU has to “pray to God” because the talent gap is large. Miami’s schedule has not been especially tough yet; this game ranks lower in difficulty for them outside the rivalry history. Discussion of last year’s near-miss for a bigger stage and FSU’s loss to Virginia.
19:40–22:10 — Miami’s run game depth
Anthony praises Mark Fletcher Jr., freshman Javion Mallory, and overall backfield depth even after injuries. Jackson notes FSU lacks similar immediate-impact freshmen and rotational depth.
22:10–25:30 — Deuce Robinson vs. Malachi Toney + Ashton Daniels
Jackson asks who is the better player. Anthony says Toney is clearly ahead (comparisons are more with Jeremiah Smith). He acknowledges Deuce is better than his stats show but is limited by quarterback play. Both discuss Ashton Daniels’ inconsistency (turnovers in nearly every game) and dual-threat ability.
25:30–29:15 — Stopping FSU’s run & Miami’s tackling
Anthony compares the approach to the Clemson game: stop the run and make the QB beat you with his arm. Usman Chroma’s tackle-breaking is noted. Anthony identifies Miami’s occasional missed tackles (they hit hard but don’t always wrap up) as a possible small edge for FSU. Interior defensive line remains a strength.
29:15–31:00 — Score predictions
Anthony predicts Miami covers and goes 53–9 (over/under was 55.5). Jackson leans 45–14 and does not expect FSU to reach 20 points. Both express limited confidence in FSU consistency.
31:00–33:00 — Norvell’s future & buyout
Jackson discusses fan frustration and speculation about a possible firing (after Boston College or end of season). Anthony notes the large buyout is protecting Norvell for now.
33:00–end — Closing, comments, and promotions
Jackson reads some live comments (on Daniels consistency, Deuce, the spread, leadership). Promotes Anthony’s work, Amazon affiliate, The Take with Jackson Burleson, and another FSUVOCFB video. Signs off.
Key Quotes
Anthony: “Right now, lopsided… at what point does Mike Norvell’s life support get pulled?”

Anthony on Cristobal: “He won’t admit it, but it means a lot to him.”

Anthony on the spread: “I think it’s generous for FSU… I thought it would be closer to the thirty range.”

Anthony on Mensah: “He is statistically the best quarterback in FBS under pressure.”

Anthony on Toney: “There’s no arguing with Tony… when we do the comparisons of Malachi and Tony, it’s with Jeremiah Smith.”

Anthony’s prediction: “I’m going to go with fifty-three to nine.”

Jackson’s prediction: “I’m going to go forty-five to fourteen.”
Score Predictions
Anthony Aguirre: Miami 53, Florida State 9 (covers easily)

Jackson Burleson: Miami 45, Florida State 14
Notable Clip-Worthy Segments (for Shorts/Reels/X)
~03:40–04:30 — Jackson’s “biggest downfall in college football history” take

~07:50–09:00 — Both agree the 21.5 spread is generous to FSU

~10:15–11:00 — Mensah under pressure + Clemson throw highlight

~14:00–15:30 — Malachi Toney’s dominance and youth

~23:20–24:30 — Toney vs. Deuce / “no arguing with Tony”

~29:45–30:20 — Anthony’s 53–9 prediction

~31:40–32:30 — Norvell buyout discussion
Overall Takeaway
Both hosts see a significant talent and momentum gap. Miami is expected to control the game, especially through Mensah, Toney, and the defensive line. FSU’s best realistic path is generating early pressure, limiting explosives, and hoping Miami’s tackling issues appear, but confidence is low. The rivalry is currently one-sided, with longer-term questions surrounding Norvell’s future at Florida State.

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37 min
October 10FLORIDA STATE - Louisville Postgame LIVE
Florida State Primetime Live (presented by FanDuel) – FSU vs. Louisville Postgame
Host: Jackson Burlison
Air date/context: Postgame after FSU’s 20-44 road loss to Louisville (both teams now 3-3)
Channel: FSUVOCFB / Voice of College Football
Opening / Framing the Loss (~00:00:31–00:01:30)
Welcome to the Louisville postgame show. FSU falls 20-44 on the road; both programs sit at 3-3.

Subscribe to FSU at The Voice of College Football; merch link in description.

Game “got out of hand.” FSU started extremely hot and looked ready to blow Louisville out.
Strong Start That Quickly Collapsed (~00:01:30–00:05:00)
FSU jumped out 14-0. First two drives both ended in touchdowns (first time in an ACC game since 2023).

Opening drive: 14 plays, 75 yards, ~6:30, longest opening-drive TD since 2014. Balanced, efficient third downs, finished with TDs.

Host’s dad called during the early lead; both felt it looked like “old Florida State football” and that they were “back.”

Momentum died on a failed fourth-and-goal. Screen to Jason Lopez; Ashton Daniels hesitated and didn’t get the ball out quickly enough with blockers in front. Host preferred a QB draw or read option given Daniels’ red-zone legs.

Prior plays also criticized: missed wide-open tight end (Daniels held the ball too long, threw at the feet); third-down run stuffed instead of throwing to Deuce Robinson in one-on-one coverage.

Perfect red-zone conversion rate for the season ended on that possession. Host liked the early aggressiveness at the time but says it completely derailed the game.
Immediate Response Failure & Isaac Brown’s Big Run (~00:05:00–00:08:30)
Isaac Brown’s 97-yard TD run right after (longest FBS rushing TD this season, longest from scrimmage in Louisville history, longest play from scrimmage ever allowed by an FSU defense).

Still 14-7 FSU at that point. Host expected a response; instead FSU went three-and-out (stuffed runs, Lofton short of the sticks).

Coaching critique: staff needed to regroup the group and emphasize the game was still theirs. Offense came off the field too quickly.

Missed tackles and sacks behind the line (Mandrell Desir missed a clear sack). Louisville answered with a 7-play, 59-yard drive to tie it 14-14.

FSU’s final drive before halftime deteriorated (Javon Boggs catches, false start + 10-second runoff, third-and-12, O-line couldn’t hold a three-man rush, Daniels flushed, clock runs out). Halftime tied 14-14.
Second-Half Collapse (~00:08:30–00:13:30)
Came out flat. Isaac Brown 71-yard kick return (horse-collar penalty) put Louisville in the red zone; Lincoln Kylen finishes with a rushing TD. 21 unanswered.

More stalls: Makai Danzy drop on third down → three-and-out. Daniels accuracy issues noted overall, but this specific throw was fine.

Luane McCoy (former Seminole) carved them up (7-8 catches, led Louisville receivers). Holding penalty helped Louisville inside the 10; Keen Hill QB sneak for another TD (28 unanswered at that stage).

Chris Jones visibly upset after a blocked FG (waving arms, yelling). Host read body language as the team already feeling the game was lost.

Intentional grounding call on Daniels questioned (Wisner was in the area; throw was affected by contact). Tip pass ends a possession.

Missed sack opportunities (two defenders around the QB). Stopped Louisville on fourth-and-7 but couldn’t capitalize. Daniels missed a potential explosive throw to Danzy (ball on the wrong shoulder). Incomplete catch later not overturned.

Going into the fourth: Louisville 28-14. Louisville allowed just 80 yards and 0 points on FSU’s last five drives entering the fourth.

Fourth-quarter continuation: Brown 14-yard run, Braxton Jennings 44-yard TD (35-14). Four different Louisville players scored rushing TDs (first time vs. a Power conference opponent since 2016).

Third-down collapse: FSU started 4-for-4, then converted just 1 of the next 11.

Deuce Robinson’s second catch of the game didn’t come until the fourth quarter. Fifth game this season with three or fewer catches; multiple games with only two. Host calls the production “sad.”
QB, Defense, and Broader Frustration (~00:13:30–00:18:30)
Daniels: 21-of-37, two interceptions (one on the two-point try, one on the final possession). Several inaccurate throws, including on the second TD (one-handed catch by Danzy off a bad ball). Holds the ball too long on key downs.

Isaac Brown finishes with 235 rushing yards (career high, most by any FBS player this season) plus the long runs. Louisville’s most rushing yards in an ACC game in years. FSU’s worst run defense performance of the year.

On the 68-yard Brown run late: FSU had eight in the box on a run-designed stop and still gave it up.

Road win drought continues: 1,049+ days (since November 2023 at Florida with Tate Rodemaker). Tomorrow it hits 1,050. Host went into the game thinking this was the chance to end it.

Next game: at #4 Miami (Miami on a bye, extra prep time). Host sees a potential “disaster” coming.
Mike Norvell / Coaching / Program Direction (~00:18:30–00:28:00)
Sideline moment: after the late INT, Daniels spoke briefly with Norvell; Norvell walked away immediately.

Host is on the “fire Norvell” bus but says the ~$51 million buyout makes an in-season firing unlikely. Most probable after the season (or possibly after Boston College if they lose). Doesn’t expect resignation.

Recruiting critique: no marquee recruits in recent years; no optimism he’ll suddenly start landing them. Recruiting history called the worst of any FSU coach.

Fan chat comments read: frustration with both sides of the ball, “Fire Norvell,” buyout concerns, “might as well wait until the end of the season and save $10M,” Mandrell Desir NIL valuation (~$727K–$1.1M) vs. production (only two sacks, one vs. Central Arkansas).

Host’s view: execution falls on the coaches; fundamentals (tackling, wrapping up) are missing. “I want better execution.”

ACC title odds (FanDuel): moved from +2200 last week to +4500 this week.

Overall tone: “What will go wrong, will go wrong.” Poor decision-making on fourth-and-goal, Daniels holding the ball, missed throws to Robinson, Danzy drops, third-down failures. Tied at half and still got run over. Embarrassing for fans who remember the 1990s/Jameis standards.
Schedule Projection / Rest of Season (~00:28:00–00:35:00)
Current: 3-3. Next: at #4 Miami (projected loss → 3-4).

Host’s lean: lose to Clemson, lose at Boston College, lose to Pitt, lose to NC State, lose to Florida → finish 3-9.

Firing window: after Boston College (road game, expected loss) or at season’s end. Miami loss alone probably not enough (they’re favored). Clemson possible but less certain. Pitt and Florida seen as tough.

Winnable games left (in his view): maybe Clemson, Boston College, or NC State on a bad day. Everything else projected as losses.
Miami Preview (Brief) & Close (~00:35:00–end)
Miami is the ACC gold standard. Darian Mensah, Mark Fletcher, Malachi Toney (big early-season numbers, cooled slightly but still a problem), strong overall talent.

Extra bye week for Miami + FSU’s lack of momentum and poor road play = projected blowout. Upset chance largely gone after the Louisville loss (would have been better positioned at 4-2).

Full Miami preview promised for Tuesday’s show.

Tried to find postgame quotes/presser clips but none were available yet (presser ongoing). Will break those down Tuesday.

Final: 3-3 overall, 1-2 in ACC. Travel to Hard Rock Stadium next week vs. #4 Miami. Rough, up-and-down season. Thanks for watching; see everyone Tuesday.
Key clip-friendly moments for Shorts/TikTok/Reels
Early 14-0 optimism and the phone call with his dad (~00:02:00).

Failed fourth-and-goal + immediate 97-yard Brown TD (~00:03:30–00:06:30).

Third-down collapse stats and Deuce Robinson production (~00:13:30–00:14:45).

1,049-day road win drought and “we had this chance” (~00:16:40–00:17:40).

Norvell buyout / firing discussion and schedule projection to 3-9 (~00:18:30–00:34:00).

Mandrell Desir NIL vs. production (~00:26:20).

Odds movement and “what will go wrong, will go wrong” (~00:28:00).

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44 min
October 07Can FSU Keep Rolling? Noles Head to Louisville After Big Virginia Win / Florida State PrimeTime LIVE 29
Florida State Primetime LIVE 29 notes. Host Jackson Burleson with Austin Williams (Sports Talk with Austin, Louisville fan). Topic: Can FSU keep rolling at Louisville on Friday after the Virginia win. Presented by FanDuel.
Quick frame
Game: Florida State at Louisville, Friday (not Saturday).

Odds (FanDuel): Louisville −3.5, FSU +3.5. Over/under 60.5.

Series: FSU leads all-time 18–6; 7–3 in Louisville. History includes Lamar Jackson and an FSU comeback from 28–0.

Both sides treat this as a momentum game. FSU would go 4–2 with a second ACC win before Miami. Louisville is 2–3 and sliding after near-misses against Ole Miss and SMU.

Score calls: Burleson FSU 38–35. Williams Louisville 41–34.
Odds and talent gap (1:31–3:15)
Burleson expected FSU to be favored after Virginia; instead Louisville is a home favorite.

Williams: 3.5 is basically home-field. He thought the talent gap was small coming in. Outside Miami, ACC rosters are closer than preseason talk suggested. Number feels fair, slightly surprising.

FSU has not won a true road game in a long stretch (Burleson cites roughly 1,000 days). He sees this as the spot to break it after an explosive Virginia showing.

Both defenses are soft against the pass. FSU had 7 sacks all season, then 10 against Virginia.
Clip: 1:38–2:55, odds reaction and “fair number.”
Louisville offense (4:18–5:21)
Williams is still confident in the offense: Lincoln Keyholes, Isaac Brown, and Keewon Brown. Calls the Brown duo one of the most explosive RB tandems in the country.

Keyholes is a playmaker outside the pocket (Ole Miss deep ball to McCoy cited). Ohio State background, polished thrower who can run.

Ceiling is the Ole Miss-level output if they avoid penalties and turnovers. Losses have still featured points. Concern is the defense, not the offense, against FSU.
Clip: 4:22–5:09, Keyholes and the Brown backs.
Turnovers and cleanliness (6:47–9:28)
Louisville has turned it over repeatedly the last three games (SMU, Wake Forest, NC State). Three lost fumbles vs. NC State. Jeff Brohm said after the presser that ball security is on coaches and players.

Cost them Wake and NC State. They survived the turnovers vs. SMU; Williams calls that a lucky win. Both guests are skeptical SMU is as good as the national take.

What Williams wants Friday: no pre-snap penalties, treat the ball like a child, situational awareness late (don’t loaf a lead). Do that and Louisville leaves 3–3.

FSU has its own penalty problem: 17 combined in the last two games (10 vs. Central Arkansas, 7 vs. Virginia). Offense has been slow starting. Burleson worries about falling behind 14–0 and the defense not bailing them out, even after fourth-down stops and the sack outburst.

Norvell has framed recent games as 45-minute efforts. Burleson wants a full 60. He calls this the biggest game of the year, same as he felt about Virginia.
Clip: 7:16–8:16, Brohm on turnovers. Clip: 8:53–9:28, “treat it like your child.”
Why the line still favors Louisville (10:50–12:00)
FSU has only been favored vs. New Mexico State and Central Arkansas. Underdogs at home and on the road otherwise.

Burleson thought the Virginia win earned a lean the other way. Williams agrees recent form favored FSU and expected maybe FSU −1.5 or −2.5, but home field and earlier Ole Miss/SMU tape kept Louisville favored.
Injuries (12:21–16:28)
FSU
Darryl Desir (expected defensive piece) limited by accountability issues. Burleson wants him healthy and back.

Out: Samuel Singleton Jr. (called one of the best RBs in the country when healthy; not Ousmane Kromah, but close), Blake Nicholson (LB depth), Jordan Crutchfield (had been getting snaps). Louisville does not have to face Singleton.
Louisville
K. John Brown questionable. Was questionable vs. NC State. Injury history, nothing major per Brohm, expected to play Friday. Williams notes the RB room has been bitten by injuries.

Antonio Watts out for the year is the big one. Williams calls him the heart and soul: DB, safety, and linebacker, green-dot communicator. Defense looks different on All-22 without him (missed tackles, unfilled gaps). Pairing him with Calvin Wu would have changed the unit. “Can’t cry over spoiled milk.”
Clip: 14:58–16:14, Watts as the missing piece.
Ashton Daniels game plan (17:13–21:14)
Brohm has said Daniels is different from anyone Louisville has faced.

Williams: film shows rope throws (Alabama tape), can escape the pocket, not a pure runner but can hurt you. Reputation for inconsistency from Stanford/Auburn; this year has been steadier. Plan is to keep him from extending and playing hero ball.

Burleson: Daniels is more dangerous outside the pocket than inside. Big body, doesn’t look fast, still dynamic. Arm talent is NFL-level on some throws, baffling on others. Interception in four of five games (clean vs. SMU). Some are miscommunication (Contrarian Weisner route vs. Central Arkansas). Better than the Stanford/Auburn tape suggested outside the Vanderbilt game.

Daniels took four sacks vs. Virginia. Burleson wants him not to hold the ball. Louisville will pressure if he does.

Wants Deuce Robinson involved more than two catches. Micahi Danzy has been productive; Deuce is the matchup nightmare with the ball.
Clip: 19:19–20:03, “worse inside the pocket.” Clip: 21:21–21:39, get Deuce the ball.
Louisville pass defense and Deuce (21:40–24:46)
Louisville: 125th in total defense (423 ypg), 130th in pass defense (266.8).

Williams comps Deuce to Gronkowski/Tony Gonzalez size with Calvin Johnson speed. Jump balls and red-zone throws are the scare. Run game is less of a worry in his view because Daniels drops back.

Defense has papered over yards with timely takeaways, same as last year. Calvin Wu is among the national leaders in passes defensed. Must get FSU off schedule so screens and slants do not set up the shot. Ole Miss (Chambliss, Deuce Alexander twice in the third) is the blueprint if FSU studies it.

Burleson pushes back: FSU does run the ball. Ousmane Kromah has 41 forced missed tackles on 81 carries, leads FBS. Fifteen missed tackles forced vs. Virginia.
Clip: 22:04–23:08, Deuce size/speed. Clip: 24:46–25:26, Kromah missed-tackle stat.
Tackling (25:40–27:07)
Williams says the run game didn’t jump out in the Alabama or SMU tapes he watched, but missed tackles are a multi-year issue (effort or technique). Vs. NC State, C.J. Bailey and backs were in the backfield and not wrapped. Brohm lit into the defense on the sideline.

Kromah breaking tackles is a real problem if that continues.
Score predictions and stakes (27:13–31:00)
Burleson: high-scoring, FSU 38, Louisville 35. Cover is irrelevant if they win. Gets them to 4–2 before Miami.

Williams: two paths. Brohm has talked all week about responding and playing hungry. Or FSU’s momentum becomes dangerous. Expects a track meet, not a defensive game. Louisville 41–34.

Preseason narrative was this could be Norvell’s last game if FSU lost. That has flipped. Louisville thought 3–1 at worst (lose to Ole Miss, beat SMU). Williams says Louisville needs it slightly more; the Virginia win gives Norvell more margin.

Heard number for Norvell: eight wins keeps the job. Burleson says eight is manageable and this game gets them halfway.
Clip: 27:24–28:49, both score calls. Clip: 29:12–30:14, preseason “last game” narrative flipped.
After the guest: comments, Danzy, road streak (31:49–34:53)
Chat on new university sports leadership and NIL money. Still searching for an AD. Burleson thinks new leadership can make it sustainable; promises a deeper NIL/money video later (short week because of Friday).

Micahi Danzy: 243 receiving yards and 28 rushing yards in five games. On the Virginia win he said it felt like old Florida State, dominant on both sides. Sack emphasis landed even though Tony White said it was not a stated emphasis.

Road drought is the proof point. Burleson still thinks they blew the Alabama game. Win here and carry it into Miami (7 p.m. at Hard Rock). Ideal is a Virginia-style margin without the slow start.

Spread still surprises him, but 3.5 is close enough.
Ousmane Kromah spotlight (34:54–36:33)
Not the best RB in the country in Burleson’s view (Jadan Baugh, Florida). Top two or three.

41 forced missed tackles on 81 carries, FBS lead. Fifteen vs. Virginia.

Historical comps: Trey Benson 2022 PFF mark of 0.51 forced missed tackles per attempt; Dalvin Cook 2015 school record 56 in a season. Kromah is on a faster pace.

OC Tim Harris: playmakers have to be playmakers every week; Kromah has created regardless of opponent.
Clip: 35:00–35:24, Baugh vs. Kromah ranking.
Film: 2028 commit Man Robinson (37:54–45:30)
Three-star CB, 2028, 5-11, 180. No. 43 CB in the class. Third commit in FSU’s 2028 class. Plans two Tallahassee visits next month. Chose FSU over Florida, Miami, Georgia, Oregon, Tennessee, Oklahoma, others. IMG Academy (previously Christian Academy of Louisville).

Quote: chose FSU because of love since his freshman year. Evan Cooper, Blue Adams, Tony White, and Norvell were consistent and told him early he was a top DB.

On scheme: loves White’s attacking style, calls himself a physical playmaker. Acknowledges the defense has struggled, says good coaches don’t forget how to coach, and the Virginia win proved it.

Film notes (IMG midseason highlights, national schedule):
Jump of a route for a pick-six. Reads QB eyes, acceleration after the catch.

Tackle in space; could have triggered earlier.

Plays cushion but closes. Near-INT on another throw.

Backfield havoc. Physical, not afraid to hit. Loose Jalen Ramsey comp on temperament only.

Communication and switch. Special-teams effort, pins a returner deep instead of coasting.

Burleson likes the IQ more than the star rating. IMG reps and facilities are a head start. In-state piece matters. Pushes back on “are we celebrating three-stars?”: classes are built, not only five-stars. Recruiting track record is still his long-term worry on Norvell even at eight wins. Eight wins is not the old FSU standard.
Clip: 39:02–39:50, Robinson commitment quotes. Clip: 41:26–42:10, pick and eye read.
Close
Postgame live planned Friday around 10:30–11 p.m. ET.

Sign-off: Jackson Burleson, go Noles.

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46 min
October 04FLORIDA STATE - Virginia Postgame LIVE
Florida State beat Virginia 38-7 at Doak Campbell, moving to 3-2 overall and 1-1 in the ACC. Host Jackson Burleson framed it as the most complete game of the year and a momentum flip after the season-altering loss in Charlottesville last year.
Game result and framing
Virginia scored on its opening drive (Beau Pribula 13-yard TD, 63 yards in seven plays). After that, Burleson said it was “kind of a wrap.”

Halftime: FSU 17, Virginia 7. FSU outgained Virginia 256-89 in the first half and 218 to minus-12 in the second quarter.

Third quarter: Chris Jones stopped Virginia on fourth-and-1; Daniels scored his third rushing TD on a 78-yard drive (24-7), then broke an 81-yard rushing TD (31-7).

Fourth quarter: Mekhi Jones pass breakups, Chris Jones pressure, and three consecutive sacks forced another turnover on downs. Final: 38-7.

Burleson called it a full-60-minute game on both sides of the ball and the best play-calling of the year from Mike Norvell’s staff. Virginia was favored by 2.5 in its first road game and had been ranked earlier in the season.
Ashton Daniels
Five rushing touchdowns, an FSU and Doak Campbell single-game record, breaking the previous school mark of four (shared by several players, including Cam Akers and Dalvin Cook) and Kelly Lowry’s 1983 QB record of three.

136 rushing yards, including the 81-yard score, which Burleson called the most explosive play of the season.

Passing was uneven: one interception he should have thrown away, inconsistent accuracy, and four sacks taken. Burleson did not dwell on the mistakes given the five scores.

Daniels has now thrown an interception in four of five games.

Most dangerous out of the pocket and on designed runs/read option. Burleson said a spy or contain would be the logical counter.

Daniels credited the offensive line for paving the way.
Offense and run game
Usman Kroma was the consistent standout all season. Burleson compared him to Marshawn Lynch: multiple broken tackles on a third-down catch he was not supposed to advance, and Virginia could not tackle him one-on-one in space.

Trey Weisner: 46 rushing yards, 60 receiving yards. Makai Danzy led the team with 70 receiving yards. Duce Robinson had only two catches; Burleson wants more from the passing game in yardage, but will take the run-game explosion.

Run blocking looked better than in any prior game. Four of five offensive linemen are transfers; chemistry is starting to show. Xavier Chaplin had a false start before any time came off the clock.

FSU has scored 30-plus in four of five games (including 36 in the Alabama loss). Every win has been by 30-plus.
Defense
Ten sacks from eight different players. FSU had only seven sacks in the first four games combined.

Twelve tackles for loss. Virginia held to 37 team rushing yards; Pribula was minus-62, mostly on sacks. Biggest non-QB rusher had 10 carries. Virginia ran it 37 times against West Virginia earlier; the run game was taken out once FSU got them behind the sticks.

Pribula: 14-of-32 (under 50 percent), inaccurate, and flustered. Burleson estimated about five drops. Virginia’s experienced offensive line (average age compared to the Cowboys) was expected to be a problem and was not.

Tony White mixed pressures and blitzed on third down, forcing early throws. Effort sacks stood out, including Ryland Kennedy chasing Pribula down and tripping him up.

Named contributors: Ryland Kennedy (Texas A&M transfer, two sacks), Chris Jones (1.5 sacks, fourth-and-1 stop), Mandrell Desir, Kevin Wynn (nose, 315-plus pounds), Omar Graham, Deontay McCray. Jabril Rawls got banged up and came out; next-man-up held.

Few explosive plays allowed downfield, which surprised Burleson given earlier rush-defense issues against SMU and Alabama.

One early miscommunication on Virginia’s opening TD (linebacker or safety tracking). After that, execution matched what the staff had been asking for in fundamentals and trench play.
Special teams and discipline
Kicker is perfect on the year.

Punter Daniel Hughes pinned Virginia, including a punt from Virginia’s own end zone.

Seven penalties. Better than the 10 against Central Arkansas, but Burleson wants that closer to three and less post-play shoving.
Quotes (via Warchant / Tomahawk Nation)
Norvell: proud of the work to improve; “If we take care of us, I believe this can be a really good and dominant football team.”

On the defense: “Tony did a really nice job adapting the plan. I thought some guys definitely grew up,” naming Desir, Kennedy, Wynn, and Graham.

On Daniels: “He deserved that tonight.”

Daniels: “The light should be shining on the offensive line.”
ACC picture and rest of schedule
FSU +2200 to win the ACC on FanDuel, up from +5500 in the preseason. Burleson treated that as encouragement, not a prediction, and pushed back on chat comments warning against one-game optimism.

Only losses are to ranked teams (Alabama, SMU). He still believes FSU should be 4-1 after forcing four turnovers and losing on Labor Day.

Path he mapped if they take care of business: win at Louisville, lose at Miami (top-four team; Clemson game that night was the measuring stick), then win vs. Clemson, Boston College, Pitt, NC State, and Florida. That would put them in the ACC race. Bowl talk is the floor; the ceiling only exists if they stay consistent.

Other ACC notes: Louisville lost 31-28 at home to NC State (turnover on downs late) and is 2-3, 1-2 in the league. NC State had looked shaky (close win over App State, loss to Vanderbilt on an end-zone fumble, 34-8 loss to Virginia). Florida was blown out at Missouri.
Louisville preview (Friday, not Saturday)
Must-win in Burleson’s view if FSU wants to stay in the top tier of the standings. He thinks they can win it and does not want FSU favored on the road, but the NC State result could move the line.

What he wants: a real road win and the same defensive aggression, not a letdown after a statement game. Louisville nearly beat Ole Miss early and is still a good team even after two rough weeks.

Postgame live targeted for about 11 p.m. ET Friday. Weekly Primetime Live likely Monday at 8 p.m. ET instead of Tuesday because of the Friday kick.

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47 min
October 01 Florida State & Virginia meet again after last years matchup broke the Noles / PrimeTime LIVE 28
Jackson Burleson welcomes Wahoos247 publisher Jacquie Franciulli to revisit the game that changed both programs: Virginia's 46-38 double-overtime upset of No. 8 Florida State, the students pouring down the hill, and a Seminoles team that went 2-6 the rest of the way while the Cavaliers rode the win all the way to the ACC Championship Game. Now they meet again in Tallahassee with Virginia a 2.5-point favorite in its first road game of the season.
Jacquie breaks down why Virginia is favored despite her own doubts: the nation's oldest roster (31 fifth-year-plus players and a 317-pound veteran offensive line), Beau Pribula's development as a passer now that Rico Flores is healthy, and what the West Virginia loss exposed about a secondary left on an island. She also flags the interior defensive line without Jason Hammond, the one-on-one problem Deuce Robinson poses, and how Virginia needs to handle Ashton Daniels differently than it handled Michael Hawkins Jr. Her pick: Virginia by a field goal. Jackson sees a high-scoring game and likes the over at 51.5.
After the interview, Jackson runs film sessions on two 2028 targets: four-star Syracuse offensive line commit Omari Lawson (6-6, 260) and California three-star quarterback Chase Curran, who just made his second visit to Tallahassee. He also covers the injury report (Ashlyn Barker playing through a broken arm, Sam Singleton Jr. and Blake Nicholson unlikely, Darrell Desir and Quindarious Jones out for a mix of injury and accountability reasons) and lays out his keys for FSU: win time of possession, get pressure on Pribula, let Daniels keep running, feed Deuce Robinson early and often, and cut the penalties after 10 against Central Arkansas. The game plan has to come from the offense, because a defense ranked 126th in FBS can't be counted on to get stops.
He closes with the national hot-seat conversation, where Lincoln Riley and Shane Beamer have passed Mike Norvell, and makes the case that 8 or 9 wins is still on the table if the Noles stack wins before trips to Louisville and Miami.
Florida State hosts Virginia Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET. Postgame Live follows around 7:30.
Follow Jacquie on X @JacquieFran_ and at Wahoos247. Follow Florida State at The Voice of College Football on Instagram, X, and TikTok.
Presented by FanDuel.

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46 min
September 27FLORIDA STATE - Central Arkansas Postgame LIVE
Florida State vs. Central Arkansas Postgame LIVE — FSUVOCFB
Host: Jackson Burleson | Presented by FanDuel
Final: Florida State 34, Central Arkansas 7 (FSU favored by 46.5; did not cover)
Intro & framing (0:00–1:40)
Welcome to Florida State Primetime Live / Central Arkansas postgame.

FSU returns home after a tough loss at Alabama.

Host asks viewers to subscribe to Florida State at Voice of College Football, hit notifications, follow VOCFB merch, and check The Take with Jackson Burleson.
Game result & immediate takeaways (1:40–3:00)
FSU wins 34–7 but fails to cover 46.5.

Host expected a more dominant defensive showing and thought they would cover.

Biggest issue: undisciplined plays (running into the punter on a kick from the end zone; Jordan Saunders offsides in the fourth quarter — “a fifth-year guy that should not be making mistakes like that”).
Penalties & defense (3:00–6:50)
10 penalties for 115 yards — the stat that jumps out.

Cannot have those lapses vs. an FCS team; those same mistakes will get them killed vs. Virginia, Louisville, Miami.

Makai Jones personal-foul sequence: trying to punch the ball out after the play was dead — “you’re going to get a flag.”

Central Arkansas converted 5 third downs, including two easy ones on the opening drive (first play of the game was an automatic first down).

FSU allowed 248 yards (138 pass, 110 rush). UCA was balanced; FSU’s talent/speed advantage was the main separator.

Zero turnovers forced.

Defense has been a season-long question mark (also vs. SMU and Alabama).

“If it wasn’t for New Mexico State and Central Arkansas, we would be 0-4 if we scheduled a decent opponent.”

Allowed 7 points looks fine on paper, but they gave up easy plays.
Offense & red-zone issues (6:50–11:00)
Few complaints except finishing: two red-zone trips ended in field goals instead of TDs. “You have to see Florida State finish, especially against Central Arkansas.”

Scored fewer points than they did against Alabama.

Ashton Daniels: interception in every game this season. This INT was bad — hesitation, didn’t trust his preparation. Also held the ball too long on a flea flicker. On the Javon Boggs TD, needed to hit him in stride sooner.

Host’s evaluation of Daniels: average passer, above-average scrambler. Still “a lot of worries.”

Deuce Robinson: one catch in the first half (the easy TD). Central Arkansas couldn’t cover him — PI flags whenever they threw his way. “There should be no reason why he doesn’t have ten catches in a game like this.”

Norvell conservative: pulled starters / brought in Kevin Sperry while only up 27. Host didn’t like seeing Daniels laughing on the sideline. “You didn’t dominate… you didn’t get a win that’s going to satisfy the fan base.”

FSU “should have put up 60.”
Running game (11:00–13:20)
Usman Chroma: “a man amongst boys.” 11 carries, 86 yards, 2 TDs. Has scored in every game (5 TDs total). Best player on the team — vision, cutbacks, creating when plays break down.

King Travion Wisner (Contravion Wiseman): 8 carries, 41 yards. Didn’t look as explosive as at Texas; host thinks he’s lost a step / still not 100% after camp injuries.

Freshman Amari Thomas got work late (with ~9:00 left in the fourth) and looked good — possible extra snaps with Sam Singleton out.
Linebacker depth / Chris Jones (13:20–14:20)
Defense looks thin at LB. Chris Jones went down, wasn’t putting weight on the leg, went to tent, later did drills and was cleared. Host still wanted him rested so they could work depth.
Record & “weird” season so far (14:20–16:20)
FSU is 2-2. Host isn’t surprised.

No 30-point win all year. This 27-point margin is their largest.

Sequence: beat NMSU, lose to SMU by 3 at home, lose at No. 10 Alabama by 14, beat UCA by 27.

Zero points in the fourth quarter vs. Central Arkansas. “How is that possible?”

Fan base wanted a fashion/dominant win they could look at in the mirror.
Javon Boggs quote (17:00)
“I liked the game that I had. I’m not really satisfied. Always want more. Just another step.”

Host aligns with that: should have been better, even if the 46.5 was huge (they also missed a 28.5 vs. NMSU; they did cover 19.5 at Alabama).
Virginia preview & series notes (18:20–22:00)
Next: Virginia at home.

Virginia 2-1 after a 38–27 home loss to West Virginia; hosting Delaware today (FSU monitoring).

Virginia OL has heavy continuity / veteran age.

Same QB as last year.

Series: UVA has won 4 of last 7 and 3 of last 4. FSU leads 15–5 overall, 9–1 in Tallahassee.

Last meeting: Virginia 46–38 in double OT (game-ending INT on 4th down). Randy Pittman Jr. had a rushing, passing, and receiving TD in the loss. UVA’s 46 was FSU’s second-highest points allowed since 2025.

Host unsure FSU even deserves to be favored. Wants a fast start like the Deuce Robinson TD today. Suggests more designed QB runs to use Daniels’ size.
Norvell / UCA connection & game-week notes (23:40–28:00)
First-ever meeting between the programs.

Norvell launched his coaching career as a GA at Central Arkansas in 2006; in Arkansas Hall of Fame. Head-to-head with friend Nathan Brown.

Cool visual of young Norvell in cornrows vs. current look.

UCA’s purple-and-gray striped field mentioned as one of the cooler fields in CFB.

Biggest crowd UCA has ever played in front of (Doak Campbell). Their home stadium seats ~10,000.

FSU paid UCA $450,000 (contract March 2024, payment by July 2026) plus 300 comps, suite, parking, bench passes. Contrast: $1.4 million for Week 0 vs. New Mexico State.

Norvell family helped design a nutrition area at UCA — alumni giving back.
Other scores & host’s picks (28:00–31:30)
Florida over Ole Miss looking like a blowout (host picked Florida on his podcast). Trinidad Chambliss and the Gators’ RB looking special; FSU plays Florida at the end of the year (host has tickets). Later update: Florida 52–28 with 3:36 left.

Central Michigan up early on Miami (later Miami takes 7–3 lead).

Host 3-for-3 on picks so far, tracking LSU vs. Texas A&M, etc.

Michigan loses to Iowa 20–19.

Notre Dame dominated Purdue.

Texas-Tennessee onside kick chaos; Texas lucky at the end.

Shout-out SMU (sister goes there).
Possession / efficiency stats that bothered him (31:50–32:40)
UCA possessed the ball 39+ minutes, only two fewer first downs than FSU.

UCA ran 73 plays to FSU’s 48.

FSU offense 8.7 yards per play; defense allowed 3.4 YPP. “Weird stats… not the greatest.”
Mike Norvell quotes that came in live (32:40–34:20)
On the loaded upcoming schedule: “It’s fully loaded with opportunities. It comes down to us.”

Going forward: “I got a lot of belief in this team. It’s all in front of us. We got to go get better and we’ve got to continue to push ourselves individually.”

Host: the minor details (10 penalties vs. UCA) are killing them.
Rest of schedule glance (34:20–38:20)
Upcoming stretch: Virginia (home), Louisville (road), Miami (road), Clemson (home) — “we could easily lose all four.” Host would take 2-2 in that stretch (win the two homes).

Louisville lost to Wake Forest by 3 at home (same 2-2 record as FSU).

Boston College, Pitt, NC State, then Florida.

Most nervous about Louisville, Miami, and Florida. Florida looking like a problem under John Sumrall.
Close (38:20–end)
Asks for comments: likes/dislikes vs. UCA, concerns, takes on upcoming games.

Back Tuesday 8 p.m. ET for Florida State Primetime Live presented by FanDuel.

“A win’s a win… I just wanted a little cleaner game.”

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40 min
September 24Seminoles Fall To The Crimson Tide + Rest Of Season Outlook | Florida State Seminoles LIVE 341
Florida State Seminoles LIVE 341
Seminoles Fall To The Crimson Tide + Rest Of Season Outlook
Hosts: Gus Wilson & Cole Kruger | FSUVOCFB
Brought to you by FanDuel
This is Gus Wilson’s final episode with Voice of College Football. Cole Kruger remains on the show.
Opening / Farewell note (0:30–2:11)
Gus: last video with VOCFB after moving to the Auburn platform; cannot continue on FSU or 365.

Cole stays on Florida State Seminoles Live; replacement coming.

Gus already did a longer farewell on Auburn Primetime Live the night before.
Alabama recap — 50-36 loss, FSU falls to 1-2 (2:12–15:00)
Score flow
FSU jumped out 14-3 in Q1, led 21-6.

After weather delays (first ~1:40, then another ~40 minutes plus camera issues), Alabama flipped it. Tide scored 21 unanswered in a three-minute stretch after the second delay.

Final: Alabama 50, FSU 36. FSU covered a 20-point spread.
Offense (the bright spot)
Best statistical game of the season on paper. Ashton Daniels 4 total TDs.

Deuce Robinson finally looked like Deuce Robinson — huge night, including the early “toss-up” TD that Gus called Tommy Castellanos-esque.

Run game worked early (Croma + Sam Singleton). Singleton now injured; unclear timeline — big loss.

Trey Weisner / Country: one carry (late). He’ll have to take on more with Singleton out.

Offense moved the ball throughout; Gus refuses to pin the loss on the offense despite Daniels’ 3 INTs. “You put up 36 on the road against a top-10 SEC team.”
Defense (same old story, worse)
567 yards allowed. No sacks from the defensive line (only sack was Jabril Rawls, a CB).

Tony White scheme: everyone drops at the snap, huge holes underneath, 3-5 seconds to throw. Same issues vs SMU.

Alabama ran the ball successfully after sputtering early — exposed the trenches.

Bright spots: Chris Jones “everywhere” in the first half; Makai Jones end-zone breakup that forced a FG.

Cole and Gus both say it’s hard to take Norvell seriously while White remains DC. White is “public enemy No. 1 in Tallahassee.”
Other notes
11 straight road losses under Mike Norvell (last win Nov. 2023 at Florida).

Weather delays and production issues (cameras out) disrupted rhythm.

Keelan Russell looked increasingly comfortable; Gus (Auburn + FSU fan) is “scared” of him.

Takeaway: FSU didn’t get blown out and the offense showed life, but “that’s not the standard of Florida State football.”
FanDuel / Central Arkansas preview (15:21–24:00)
Line: FSU -45.5, total 62.5. No player props.

Family & alumni weekend — packed Doak.

Both like FSU to cover and the over if they spot UCA 10–21 points and score 40–49+.

Possible team-total play once those numbers post (implied FSU ~52.5).

Question: will Norvell play backups in the second half with his job on the line? Both expect him to try to run it up, then give snaps to Malachi Marshall (and maybe Kevin Sperry) in the fourth.

What they want to see from starters:
Two-headed monster with Weisner getting real work.

At least one sack from the defensive line. “Mind-boggling” if White still has a job Sunday if they can’t get one vs UCA.

Jason Lopez, Devin Carter (if healthy), Isaiah Williams status unknown (typical Norvell opacity on injuries).

Score predictions:
– Gus: 59-13
– Cole: 52-10

Reference point: last year’s 77-3 vs Kent State when Deuce went off.
Norvell’s job / Central Arkansas as possible last game (24:00–27:30)
Cole rates “this is his last game” a 6.5–7 on a 1-10 scale.

Quiet reporting lately; possible they wait for a new AD, but the next AD almost certainly won’t want Norvell.

Upcoming schedule is brutal (Virginia, Louisville, Miami, Pitt, Florida). UCA is the last “guaranteed” win.

Precedent: Florida fired Billy Napier after a win last year. A win Saturday is not a quality win.
Rest-of-season outlook (27:30–32:20)
Current 1-2. Expect 2-2 after UCA.
Likely losses (as of now): Louisville, Miami, Pitt, Florida.
Winnable / toss-ups: Virginia (home, UVA looked shaky vs WVU), Boston College (lean win), NC State (chaos after the Vanderbilt ending), Clemson (Cole now leans FSU win — different vibe than early-season Clemson).
Win totals
Cole: 4-8 floor, 5-7 most realistic (split Virginia/NC State + BC + Clemson + UCA).

Ceiling maybe 6-6. Seven wins would be a miracle.

No clear interim HC if they fire Norvell midseason.
Clemson note: ugly win over UNC, close call vs Georgia Southern, but roster still has more proven pieces and they’re playing with more urgency than FSU.
Sign-off / Gus farewell (32:20–end)
Honor working with Cole the last couple months.

SMU loss was the “nail in the coffin” for hope.

Gus: @byGusWilson — will still root for FSU.

Cole: @ColeKru9 — he’ll be back.

Shout-outs: Jackson & Jacob (Florida State Primetime Live), Mark & Chris for the opportunity.

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33 min
September 23FSU Nearly Stuns Alabama & Norvell Faces His Alma Mater / Florida State PrimeTime LIVE 27
Florida State Primetime Live presented by FanDuel
Host: Jackson Burlison
FSUVOCFB / Voice of College Football
Focus: Alabama recap, Central Arkansas preview, 2027 recruiting, injuries, Norvell job security, Jimbo Fisher rumors
Intro (0:31–1:23)
Welcome to another edition. Agenda: thoughts on Saturday’s Alabama game, preview of this Saturday’s Central Arkansas matchup, recruiting notes. Subscribe, comment on season record expectations, check Voice of College Football merch in the description.
Tayshaun Poole film breakdown — 2027 four-star commit (1:29–5:48)
Four-star safety/athlete (No. 6 safety nationally, No. 6 in Georgia, No. 64 overall) had a monster Friday night vs. Baldwin High School in a 49-43 win.
Stats: 9 receptions, 245 yards, 6 TDs (27.2 yards per catch); 7 tackles, 1 TFL on defense.
Host reacts live to film:
Contested one-handed catch while double-covered.

Open-space tackling and speed.

Breaks tackles, jet-sweep TD, runs away from entire defense.

Route running and shiftiness praised.
Called the best player currently in FSU’s 2027 class. Some already floating five-star talk after another game or two like this. Versatile two-way player; compared to fellow class athlete Car Johnson. Host likes the idea of both as freshman weapons next year.
Clip-worthy film segments throughout this block.
Sam Singleton Jr. injury (5:49–8:22)
Backup RB out for an extended period (leg injury). Norvell comments suggest he may not return until the second half of the season.
Through 3 games: 20 carries, 73 rush yards; 8 catches, 162 receiving yards (2nd on team), 2 TDs (team lead). Standout 65-yard catch-and-run vs. Alabama on 3rd-and-14.
Opens the door for Contraveon Weisner (discussed last week as underused). Host hopes Weisner becomes a more prominent piece. Called Singleton one of the better offensive players early and a homegrown product whose growth was noted by former RB coach Austin Tucker.
Big loss; Weisner now has a clear path vs. Central Arkansas and New Mexico State leftovers.
Jimbo Fisher reunion rumors (8:23–11:09)
FSU exploring a potential reunion. Bruce Feldman report: FSU brass looking into it; Fisher wants the job. $75M+ remaining buyout from Texas A&M firing gives FSU financial flexibility to pay him less and redirect money to roster/NIL.
President Richard McCullough still publicly backing Norvell (“nobody wants to win more than him”).
Host’s take: Norvell saved his job Saturday. Seat cooler than it was heading into Alabama. 1-2 record includes two losses to top-20 teams. Expects Norvell to finish the season. Still understands why the program would keep options open given Fisher’s FSU résumé (2013 national title, 83-23 overall, 48-16 ACC 2010-17) and even the 45-25 Texas A&M mark (25-21 SEC).
Alabama game recap — FSU 36, Alabama 50 (11:09–25:00)
FSU dropped its 10th straight road game but covered a 19.5-point spread and led 21-6 and later 28-26. Two weather delays (roughly 90 minutes early + another late in the second quarter; ~120 minutes total delay) disrupted rhythm.
Positives
Defense forced two three-and-outs to open the game.

McKay Bayer making open-field tackles on third down.

Deuce Robinson explosion: 6 catches, 135 yards, TD (season high). 20-yard TD on 50/50 ball vs. blitz to start the scoring.

Ashton Daniels’ best game: 17-of-29, 377 yards, 2 rushing TDs. Aggressive downfield, gave receivers chances. Host still assigns all three INTs to Daniels (held ball too long, inaccurate, forced throws).

Offensive line looked improved after some shuffling (tackle-to-guard moves).

Weapons showing: Makai Danzy 89 yards, Boggs 69, Singleton 68, Landon Thomas TD.

Covered the spread after host and many fans doubted they would.
Negatives
Allowed 567 yards (second straight 560+ yard game; SMU had 585 the week before — over 1,000 yards in two games).

Defense wore down after strong start; blown coverages and missed tackles after second delay. Keelan Russell’s mobility a problem (same issue as vs. Kevin Jennings).

Didn’t finish. Tony White said they needed to stay aggressive schematically.

First game this season under 100 rushing yards.

Three turnovers; host believes FSU wins if they don’t turn it over.
Host was at a wedding in Chicago and still impressed they scored 36 on No. 10 Alabama. “We punched them in the throat.” Feels the performance gives life to the season and makes an 8-win ACC-competitive year realistic rather than far-fetched. Inconsistency across first three weeks remains the concern (two different teams).
Norvell: “We left a lot on the table.”
Revised record projection (25:00–29:00)
After the Alabama showing, host updates outlook to 7-5.
Beat Central Arkansas

Beat Virginia (home)

Lose Louisville

Lose Miami

Beat Clemson

Beat Boston College

Beat Pitt

Beat NC State

Lose Florida
Virginia at home is the next real measuring-stick game for ACC competitiveness. ESPN projection mentioned: Frisco Bowl vs. Memphis, with coaching security as a storyline. Host notes that’s still a bowl after two bad years — incremental progress, not fantasy 10-2 talk.
Central Arkansas preview (29:00–36:00)
FSU 44.5-point favorite (FanDuel). Host takes FSU to cover and win by 50.
Norvell connections: Played WR at UCA 2001-05 (Hall of Fame 2016; 2nd in school history with 213 receptions, 5th with 2,600 receiving yards). UCA HC Nathan Brown was his teammate (QB 2004-08).
UCA notes:
FCS United Athletic Conference (competitive league with ACU, Tarleton).

Dual-threat QB Donovan (671 pass yards, 6 TDs; 336 rush yards) — good practice after struggling vs. mobile QBs.

WR Terrell Pollard averaging 20 YPC.

LB Ashton Williams 11.8 tackles per game (2nd in FCS).

Allowed a kick-return TD on the first play last week vs. SE Missouri.
FSU red-zone TD rate leads ACC at 84.6%. Special teams: Darius Jones one of four FBS players with INT + FF + FR this year; kicker perfect 3-for-3 FGs (18-for-18 career).
Keys: Use speed early, get defense off the field, get Weisner involved, possibly see Myokai Marshall if it’s a blowout. Host wants a Kent State-style domination.
Chat / wrap (36:00–end)
“Make Deuce great again” — host agrees Alabama was the breakout.

Daniels comparisons (James Blackman, Everett Golson, DJU) — host sees some similarities but notes Daniels’ Alabama tape showed more potential than first two weeks.

Norvell play-calling: Host thinks he took over more this year for job-security reasons; likes the aggression vs. Alabama once the pass game worked.

Defense remains the issue vs. good teams (and even vs. New Mexico State).

Optimism vs. realism debate with commenters. Host says his job includes being optimistic after the Alabama flashes.
Closes with plugs: subscribe, FSU/VOCFB socials, “The Take with Jackson Burleson” podcast. Central Arkansas should be a 50-point win and a chance to build on the Alabama performance.

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45 min
September 17Previewing Florida State's Matchup Against Alabama + Alford Fired | Florida State Seminoles LIVE 340
Florida State Seminoles LIVE 340
Previewing FSU vs. Alabama + Michael Alford Fired
Hosts: Gus Wilson & Cole Kruger | FSUVOCFB
Sponsor: FanDuel
0:00–2:00 — Intro
Gus and Cole open a busy Wednesday night show.

Cole’s power was out in Tallahassee for about an hour; apartment just starting to cool.

Gus recorded with Auburn VOCFB and is heading to Oxford for the LSU–Ole Miss tailgate scene (credentials TBD).

Game this Saturday: FSU at Alabama, 3:30 p.m. ET on ABC (moved off The CW) at Saban Field at Bryant-Denny.
2:00–7:25 — Michael Alford fired
Athletic director Michael Alford was fired Monday.

Gus published a piece with Sport and Stage criticizing Alford’s tenure since 2021: failure to adapt to NIL and the new college sports landscape, not just football.

Cole was shocked. Rumblings existed all week; the school used the weekend to prepare the announcement.

Surprise that Alford went before Mike Norvell. Program did not want Alford picking the next head coach.

Alford positives: hired Luke Loucks and Brian Pensky; brought lacrosse to FSU.

Failures: player retention (Isaiah Torres cited), unwillingness to spend in the NIL era. Miami spends $5–8 million on QBs; FSU paid Ashton Daniels ~$800K.

Stadium renovation viewed as a failure by boosters, alumni, fans, and students — Doak is quieter after losing ~20,000 seats. Not solely Alford’s call.

Interim AD: Bruce Warwick. Search should already be in full swing; hosts expect a hire by end of October or sooner.

President McCullough’s press conference framed the move around lack of NIL usage.
7:25–16:00 — Norvell hot-seat rumors, moving trucks, buyout
Pete Thamel/ESPN-style report (hosts name “Evan’s theory” / similar reporting) that FSU is preparing to fire Norvell after Saturday if they get blown out. Buyout this month: $51 million. Hosts treat it with a grain of salt.

Old Row and others posted photos/video of moving trucks and boxes outside Norvell’s house mid-season.

Warchant presser clip: Norvell asked about the trucks. He says he doesn’t look online much, focus is on the state and the team, results haven’t been good enough, no excuses, believes in the process and the players.

Cole: Who is filming outside a coach’s house? Privacy issue. Norvell’s laugh-then-coach-speak reaction felt like he didn’t know the footage was public.

Tallahassee Democrat reported Norvell is staying for the foreseeable future.

Cost of a full reset: Norvell buyout + entire staff + $8–10M new coach + new AD ≈ $130 million. Boosters have not shown that appetite the last two years.

Hosts do not expect a Sunday firing after Alabama.

Norvell’s alma mater Central Arkansas visits next Saturday (family weekend). They expect him to coach that game.

Victory lap: both hosts flagged Sunday, October 18 (day after Miami) as the realistic date all offseason. Possible 2–5, 0–4 ACC record with only wins over Central Arkansas and New Mexico State.

Road-win drought: approaching three years since last true road win (ACC Championship, Dec. 2023). Cole was at that game. “Mind-boggling” for a program with FSU’s logo and history.
16:00–22:10 — Offense vs. Alabama
What FSU needs:
Push the ball downfield. Deuce Robinson: 6 catches in 2 games, ~3 per game, under 20 yards per game. Must get him involved; realistically needs double-digit catches to stay in the game.

Ashton Daniels has not shown the arm strength or downfield success advertised all offseason. Norvell says he’s improving in practice; hosts don’t buy it yet.

Get the ball to Makai Danzy — not just end-arounds; screens and downfield work. He’s faster than most of the secondary.

Run game (Usman Kromah, Sam Singleton) is the best part of the offense. Establish it, then play-action.

Score on the opening drive to steal first-half momentum. Alabama struggled early vs. Kentucky.

Alabama just shut down Kentucky’s run (including C.J. Baxter) and has film on Daniels from last year’s Iron Bowl plus Norvell’s play-calling.

Time of possession and getting playmakers the ball. Alabama will key the run; FSU has to prove it can throw over the top.

Revenge factor: many Alabama defenders remember last year’s home loss to FSU.
22:10–28:40 — Defense vs. Alabama
Priority: contain Keelon Russell’s legs and make him beat them with his arm. Not overly worried about the Alabama run game after a shaky first half vs. Kentucky.

Pressure Russell. FSU has 3 sacks in 2 games — all from linebackers. Defensive line has no sample size of success. Emmanuel Desir “disappeared.” Watch Ryland Kennedy (Texas A&M experience).

Tony White will need corner/safety blitzes. Secondary has been weak; KJ Kirkland missed SMU.

Last week vs. SMU: 4 turnovers but 400+ yards allowed. Kevin Jennings (minus two mistakes) carved them up. Russell is a better dual-threat talent.

Forcing turnovers didn’t save them against SMU. Outlook “very bleak.”

Expect Norvell to be more aggressive early — possible downfield shot on first or second play. Desperate team. Two-tight-end looks with Landon Thomas and D’Zero Arras.

If Daniels has 2–3 turnovers and the game gets ugly, both hosts would put in Malachi Marshall over Kevin Sperry. No tape on Marshall; possible spark. Norvell has little to lose.
28:40–34:00 — Odds & FanDuel
Spread opened ~17.5, now FSU +19.5. Total 48.5.

Alabama team total 34.5; FSU 13.5.

Cole leaning Alabama –19.5 in a pick’em with friends. 19.5 feels a little high and a little low. Staying off the total; if forced, lean over. Alabama can hang 34+ alone.

Gus’s unofficial score lean matches FSU’s 13.5 team total.

Deuce Robinson –230 to get 30+ yards (huge drop from last year). +320 to score a TD — hosts like that as a fan dart.

Sam Singleton also has red-zone value if FSU ever gets there.

Reminder: gamble responsibly on FanDuel.
34:00–38:10 — Score predictions
Cole: Alabama 42, FSU 10
Aggressive FSU first quarter possible (maybe one TD). Then Alabama second-half surge like vs. Kentucky. Program vibes are terrible; players hear the noise and may not fight for Norvell. Firing him this weekend would tank the rest of the season — fans should hope he lasts until at least Miami.

Gus: Alabama 38, FSU 13
Possible opening-drive TD + two field goals. Not close after the first quarter. Alabama remembers last year’s loss and won’t lose at home. Standalone 3:30 ABC game (Louisville–SMU also 3:30). Gus will try to make the postgame live from Oxford.
38:10–end — Close
Zero live comments. Hosts say that’s a reflection of the program — fans don’t want to consume FSU content right now.

Post-SMU clip already has 4–5K views of them calling the situation sad.

They believed in the team coming into the year. Can’t sunshine-pump anymore after New Mexico State, SMU, and the Alford firing.

Hope the Seminoles are better this time next year.

Plug: like/comment/subscribe; FSU Primetime Live with Jackson Burleson & Jacob Smith; Cole @ColeCrew9, Gus @byGusWilson on X. Same time next Wednesday.

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40 min
September 16The Reason behind FSU firing AD & does FSU have a shot at Bama? / Florida State PrimeTime LIVE 26
Florida State Primetime Live (presented by FanDuel)
Host: Jackson Burleson
Guests: Colby Crawford (Noles247 / 247Sports FSU) and Jackson Johnson (Alabama VOCFB / SEC VOCFB)
Theme: Why FSU fired AD Michael Alford midseason, recruiting ripples, fan buyout campaign, SMU film leftovers, and Alabama preview.
Segment 1 — Alford out before Norvell (00:00–09:58)
Burleson opens with the question: if someone told you before the season that AD Michael Alford would be fired before Mike Norvell, what would you say?
Colby Crawford: Not shocked. Timing was a little messy, but the writing was on the wall. Board chair Peter Collins and president Richard McCullough did not want Alford “with his hands on the wheel” for the next football-coach hire. Football results drove it: 2-10, 5-7, then 1-1 to start 2026 after an uninspiring Labor Day effort vs. SMU. Facility wins (football-only building, Doak upgrades) and other sports (soccer national title) weren’t enough. Football is the moneymaker.
President McCullough’s “we’re behind” comments = FSU got outpaced in NIL / revenue sharing. Alford publicly favored staying under the ~$20.5M cap while peers spent more. Money went to buildings instead of roster.
Interim AD: Bruce Warwick. Stop-gap for day-to-day; Collins still pulling strings.
Norvell implication: Firing the AD midseason is not an endorsement. “When, not if” if the season keeps trending this way. Alabama this weekend is the next test.
AD candidates (very early): Jeremiah Dickey (Boise State — hottest name), Derek Brooks (USF COO), Zach Selman (Mississippi State), Ed Scott (Memphis). Priority: fundraiser with connections. Aggressive timeline could be early November; realistic is winter so a new AD + GM staff can hit signing day / portal.
Fan takeaway: First domino. Alignment among president, board, new AD, and (likely) new coach matters more than ever with realignment still unfolding.
Segment 2 — Recruiting scare: Sakari / Zachary Johnson (10:00–16:20)
FSU 2027/28 commit (reclassified) safety/athlete Sakari Johnson (Miami Carol City) visited Miami’s home opener vs. FAMU (Hurricanes put up 77). He has now called Miami his “dream school.”
Burleson is baffled. Committed in July after reclassifying from 2028. Versatile (WR/QB/DB), 6-1 frame, local kid. Tallahassee is a long drive from South Florida; Miami is home. Losing a four-star in-state safety would be a bad look on top of the AD news and 1-1 start. Compares the versatility (not the talent) to Travis Hunter flipping away.
Asks chat: can FSU hold the rest of the 2027 class?
Segment 3 — Fans crowdfunding Norvell’s buyout (16:20–19:00)
SaveFSUFootball.com wants 250,000 fans to give $102 each to cover half of Norvell’s reported $51M buyout. Site cites 44.9% ACC winning percentage vs. pre-Norvell 76-8, and 0-6 vs. “legit” teams.
Burleson calls it insane and funny — also a temperature check on how done the fan base is. Plans to track how much they actually raise.
Chat already wants Tony White gone too.
Segment 4 — SMU film + Tony White + Quintravion Wisner (19:00–27:10)
Rewatched SMU. More flashes than it felt live (power outage, fans leaving), but scheme issues persist.
3-3-5 / heavy DB look getting beat over the top.

Cushion coverage on 3rd-and-short is “cooked.”

Jabril Rawls ran past the LOS at the snap on a long TD.

Tony White presser: “69 of X plays were good, we want 9 back.” Burleson hates coaches saying “we as coaches need to be better” — it confirms what fans already believe.

Mandrell Tisdale pre-snap crossover: White said they’ll cut it out.
Biggest personnel gripe: Quintravion Wisner (Texas transfer, ~$800K) played zero snaps vs. SMU and wasn’t on the injury report. High-level CFP experience, receiving back. Singleton and Croma are fine, but Wisner changes pace on 3rd/4th down and would help Ashton Daniels get the ball out. “He has to touch the field vs. Alabama.”
Offense too vanilla / run-heavy. Daniels running for his life. Conservative play-calling compared to Texas going for it on 4th-and-9 vs. Ohio State.
Segment 5 — Alabama preview with Jackson Johnson (27:10–end)
Spread: Alabama -19.5. Both stay away from the number; Johnson would only consider Bama moneyline.
History: First meeting in Alabama since 1974 (Bama won big; later context 8-7 Orange Bowl era before Bowden). Last year FSU won at Doak.
Johnson on Alabama:
Wants 150+ rush yards (shouldn’t be hard).

Keelon Russell: trust his instincts more than Ty Simpson did last year vs. FSU; will scramble but “reads the room.”

Offensive line and kicking game (fixed after early woes) are little things that become big things.

X-factors: run game, kicking, Derek Meadows, Coleman Williams. Revenge energy even if DeBoer won’t call it that.

Daniel Hill: FSU should watch him “like a hawk.”

Ryan Coleman Williams: don’t overreact to Week 1 drops; 58-yard tackle-breaking catch vs. ECU is the tape that matters. Soft cushions = 100+ yards.
Burleson on FSU needs:
Wisner on the field.

Pressure like Kentucky got in the first half last week.

Deuce Robinson more than 2 catches (dropped a TD vs. SMU).

Cannot play 10 yards off vs. Williams.

If the run game gets stuffed by an SEC front, can Daniels throw 40 times? Nervous.
Score predictions:
Burleson: Alabama 41–20 (close-ish first half, Bama pulls away like Kentucky).

Johnson: Alabama 38–17.

Neither has FSU covering.
Coach chatter (light): Eli Drinkwitz to FSU (no state income tax / Margaritaville pitch). Manny Diaz. Brent Vigen (Montana State — “he wins”). Deion Sanders still the dream but unrealistic after health + the earlier extension that reportedly offended him. Nick Saban as AD: no.
Betting note: Same advice Johnson gave on NC State–Vanderbilt — don’t bet the spread.

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58 min

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