After a disappointing 2-10 finish in the 2024 season, Florida State football has become something of an afterthought in the College Football Playoff conversation. Many fans and analysts have written the Seminoles off heading into the 2025 campaign, citing last year’s collapse as evidence that the program is in decline. But not everyone is ready to dismiss Florida State just yet—especially not ESPN analyst and former Alabama quarterback Greg McElroy.
In a recent segment, McElroy shared his belief that Florida State’s road back to prominence is not only possible, but plausible. “The path to the College Football Playoff for Florida State is very much within reason,” he said. While acknowledging the setbacks of last season, McElroy emphasized the importance of perspective, context, and key changes heading into the new year.
A New Chapter Underway
The 2024 season was undeniably one to forget for Florida State fans. Injuries, inconsistency, and an overall lack of execution plagued the Seminoles, leading to one of the worst records in program history. But as McElroy pointed out, college football can shift quickly—and Florida State might be one of those programs primed for a bounce-back year.
Head coach Mike Norvell enters the 2025 season with something to prove. Despite the struggles last year, Norvell has reloaded the roster through the transfer portal and has brought in several key contributors who are expected to make an immediate impact. Perhaps most notable among them is quarterback DJ Uiagalelei, the former Clemson and Oregon State standout who brings a wealth of experience and leadership to a position that sorely needed stability.
Talent and Depth Returning
One of the main reasons McElroy remains optimistic about Florida State’s chances is the sheer talent that still resides in Tallahassee. The Seminoles return a number of key players on both sides of the ball and have bolstered their depth in critical areas.
On offense, the Seminoles bring back explosive wide receiver Hykeem Williams, tight end Jaheim Bell, and offensive lineman Julian Armella. The addition of Alabama transfer Roydell Williams in the backfield also gives FSU a powerful, veteran presence at running back. Defensively, the team has strengthened its secondary and pass rush with a blend of returning players and transfer portal additions.
Navigating the ACC and Beyond
Another factor that could work in Florida State’s favor? The schedule. While the Seminoles open the season with a blockbuster matchup against Alabama—a game that will serve as an early litmus test—they won’t face an overly brutal ACC slate. McElroy highlighted that if Florida State can stay competitive against the Crimson Tide and then handle business in conference play, a path to the College Football Playoff isn’t far-fetched.
“The margin for error is small,” McElroy admitted, “but the pieces are there. If they get things right early and build momentum, this team can absolutely compete at a national level.”
Final Thoughts
While skeptics remain vocal, Greg McElroy’s confidence in Florida State offers a reminder that college football is full of surprises. With the right mix of talent, experience, and motivation, the Seminoles could be one of 2025’s biggest turnarounds. Don’t count Florida State out just yet—they may be closer to playoff contention than many think.