Seminole Sunday Sauce — Aug. 2, 2026: FSU Football Picked 11th in ACC
Coming off a sixth losing season in eight years, expectations for Florida State football are lower than they’ve ever been. This week, ACC media members picked the Seminoles to finish 11th in the conference — their lowest preseason projection since joining the league in 1992.
Head coach Mike Norvell is perceived to be on the hot seat as he enters his seventh season at the helm. Despite being picked so low, FSU did receive three first-place votes in the ACC preseason poll.
FSU will open the season later this month against New Mexico State on Aug. 29. Auburn transfer Ashton Daniels has been named the starting quarterback.
Key named to know on offense include running back Ousmane Kromah and wide receiver Duce Robinson. Robinson was named preseason All-ACC this week after finishing with more than 1,000 yards receiving in 2025.
Defensive lineman Mandrell and Darryl Desir are expected to be key pieces to the defense. Defensive back Ja’Bril Rawls has proven to be a big-time playmaker in the secondary.
Rival Miami was picked to win the ACC in 2026 — something it yet to do in 22 years as a member. Behind the Hurricanes were SMU, Louisville, Clemson and Georgia Tech.
FSU volleyball was picked to finish eight in 2026 by the conference’s coaches.
FOOTBALL
Recognitions: Duce Robinson, WR (Preseason All-ACC)
Commitments: None
Decommitments: None
2027 Recruiting Class Rank: No. 35 nationally, sixth in ACC* (17 total commitments)
Wrap-up: Expectations are low for FSU. The Seminoles were picked to finish 11th in the ACC.
Soccer
Record: 0-0
Ranking: N/A
Upcoming: at Stetson (Aug. 13)
Recognitions: None
Wrap-up: FSU will begin its quest for a sixth national championship in less than two weeks.
MEN’S BASKETBALL
Commitments: None
Decommitments: None
2027 Recruiting Class Rank: N/A (0 total commitments)
Wrap-up: FSU will host LSU for an exhibition in October.
- Mike Ferguson is the lead writer for Double Fries No Slaw. Follow Mike on Twitter @MikeWFerguson. For all of his work, “Like” or “Follow” Mike on Facebook.
