FSU vs SMU: Defense or Doom | Florida State Seminoles Football News

Florida State faces a high-stakes Labor Day showdown against SMU, with everything on the line for both teams. FSU opened with a win over New Mexico State, but defensive lapses—especially on third downs and pass rush—raise alarms as SMU’s Heisman hopeful QB looms ready to exploit them. The Seminoles’ running backs shined in their debut, but can they sustain that against SMU’s solid run defense? With new defensive coordinators, FSU hopes to turn the tide. Meanwhile, FSU’s coach Mike Norvell is under intense pressure and needs a win to silence critics, while SMU’s Rhett Lashlee, fresh off a strong season and a big contract extension, is in a comfortable spot. Last year’s crushing loss to SMU looms large—another defeat could jeopardize Norvell’s job, but an upset victory could reignite fan confidence. Can FSU’s defense rise, their run game stay hot, and Norvell outsmart Lashlee? Find out Monday night. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/553b8b4b123451d9