Florida State Football Continues Struggles with 20-12 Loss to Memphis, Recruiting Challenges Mount

Florida State football suffered a disappointing loss to Memphis on Saturday afternoon at Doak Campbell Stadium, falling 20-12. The defeat marks the Seminoles’ third consecutive loss, bringing their record to 0-3 after previous setbacks against Georgia Tech and Boston College.

This season’s struggles have been mounting for a team that was predicted in the preseason to win the conference, with an over/under win total set at 9.5. With three straight losses, it’s clear that those expectations are now far from reality.

In head coach Mike Norvell’s fifth season, Florida State faces the possibility of recording three losing seasons during his tenure. While the program has leaned heavily on the transfer portal, recruiting efforts have been less than stellar. This reliance on transfers has masked deeper issues within the team, particularly in crucial positions such as quarterback, wide receiver, offensive line, defensive line, linebacker, and safety.

Florida State’s 2025 recruiting class currently ranks 34th nationally. The team has already lost key commitments from four-star defensive end Javion Hilson and four-star defensive tackle Myron Charles—two players they could ill afford to lose.

Recruiting challenges are likely to worsen as the season progresses, especially if the losses continue to pile up. However, Florida State will still manage to attract talent, and it’s expected they will bring in at least 20 recruits for this class.

Top programs like Alabama, Georgia, and Ohio State build their foundations through recruiting, supplementing their rosters with select transfer portal additions. Florida State, meanwhile, is losing ground on the recruiting trail as opponents capitalize on their recent struggles.

Despite the challenging start, one committed prospect who remains steadfast in his support of the Seminoles is four-star interior offensive lineman Peyton Joseph from Houston County High School in Warner Robins, Georgia. His continued belief in the program offers a silver lining in an otherwise difficult season.