Michael Alford 's message addressed the state of Seminoles football amid the disappointing on-field production.
Florida State football only has delivered a combined seven wins since its College Football Playoff snub of 2023.
Michael Alford has witnessed the struggles from his athletic director post -- and fired off a fiery email addressing it.
Alford's email informed concerned boosters and fans that FSU is fully committing to a winning product on the field. This despite the massive amount of transfers, skepticism from fans for FSU's portal efforts, and more recently the sudden retirement of Gus Malzahn as offensive coordinator.
"Florida State Football stands at a defining moment, and we want to communicate with candor and clarity. First, thank you for your continued commitment to our football program. Your loyalty, passion, and investment matter deeply to our competitive success and to the future of Florida State University," the letter began.
However, Alford added "For a program with our history, expectations, and resources, anything short of competing at the highest level is unacceptable, and we take seriously the responsibility that comes with representing Florida State."
Alford, who's also the vice president of the school, acknowledged how college football is impacted now via revenue sharing in the NIL era.
"Florida State is fully aligned with this evolution and operates with a disciplined, cohesive plan across our football operation as the industry continues to implement changes to stabilize the sport," Alford said.
Yet he mentioned "several national issues" needing resolution in aligning with academic calendars plus even establishing compensation guard railing for the future.
"A codified process for agent certification - which we have in college basketball - is absolutely vital for college football. I am actively collaborating with my peers to advocate for these improvements while protecting student-athletes," he said.
Alford mentioned that he helped restructure the FB program to accommodate the new CFB landscape -- including adding the general manager position to FSU football.
"With the backing of Seminole Boosters and The Battle’s End, we are executing a clear long-term vision," Alford said. "As revenue sharing expands, you will hear more from our leadership, coaches, and staff about these opportunities."
Alford's tone in the email indicates that he's adamant about Florida State remaining committed to "change lives by developing student-athletes academically, personally, and competitively, while upholding the values that define being a Seminole." All despite the constant financial change.
"We remain committed to ensuring all 21 of our teams can compete and recruit at the highest level," he said, which includes the gridiron.
Alford concluded how the campus remains confident in the direction FSU is trekking into 2026 and after.
But again, this letter comes amid the recent field struggles. Head coach Mike Norvell is among the trending leaders sitting on the hot seat this fall if FSU doesn't turn it around.
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