FSU's $430M Debt Complicates Norvell Decision After Loss

Florida State lost to Louisville 44-20, falling to 3-3 overall and 1-2 in the ACC. FSU led 14-0 on two first-quarter Ashton Daniels touchdowns before Louisville scored 35 unanswered points. A failed fourth-and-goal from the 2-yard line was followed by Isaac Brown's 97-yard touchdown run. Louisville rushed for 397 yards. The loss was FSU's 13th straight away from home. Mike Norvell said the team lacked the detail, discipline and mental toughness needed on the road, starting with him, and that players were not prepared for those moments. He said they have to own the result, fix it and get better. Pete Thamel wrote FSU has significant financial issues, with the athletic department more than $430 million in debt, making further debt difficult while facing up to $68 million in payouts for Norvell and staff. A buyout would cost about $51 million before season's end or $45.6 million after. Dan Wolken said the money problem is real but can be overcome by a school that cares about football, and that decision makers want Norvell to earn the right to stay through wins; the loss did not help.