Florida State will turn to Mike Norvell as the permanent play caller. But the wide receivers coach earned a promotion.
Florida State moved internally to fill a prominent football position Monday.
Out is Gus Malzahn, who chose to retire before spring football arrives. Head coach Mike Norvell moved swiftly to reveal the new play-caller: Norvell himself.
However, this doesn't mean he's searching for a new offensive coordinator. Tim Harris Jr. takes that mantle.
It's time to take a closer dive into Harris and the credentials he presents to fill the OC position.
Is This Harris' First OC Role?
This becomes the second time in three seasons Harris will hold the OC title.
He previously coordinated the offense for UCF in 2024 -- when Malzahn led the Knights as head coach.
That offense racked up 447.8 yards per game. However, 199.7 came through the air attack.
R.J. Harvey rose as a highlight in Orlando; rushing for 1,577 yards and scoring 22 touchdowns. The team still struggled finding consistent QB play during that 4-8 campaign.
Harris also was the coordinator for Florida International in 2020. That Panthers offense averaged 283.8 total yards through five games in that truncated COVID-19 season.
Harris Helped Create 2025 Breakout Transfer
Duce Robinson emerged as a prized star from Harris' coaching.
The former USC wide receiver delivered new career-highs across the board...including producing his first 1,000-yard season.
Robinson immediately became FSU's top returnee in bypassing the 2026 NFL Draft. One more year with Harris, this time as OC, will likely spark first round chatter for 2027.
Harris Oversaw Record-Breaking Seasons Before
Harris's area of expertise isn't limited to receiver play.
He oversaw an FIU running back room that shattered a school record of 27 total rushing touchdowns during 2018.
With the promotion, Harris may also earn say and sprinkle in his RB expertise for the FSU backfield.
Will Harris Promotion Impact Recruiting?
Malzahn retiring now presents this possible concern: Recruits dipping out of FSU.
The Seminoles had one decommit already in wide receiver Lamar Garrison. Although it's not known if the 2028 WR's decision had anything to do with Malzahn's retirement -- as he cited committing too early for the reason behind his Monday decision.
Harris, though, has delivered strong recruiting results in his previous FSU role. Robinson came via Harris and his efforts in the portal. He's landed four-stars Jasen Lopez and Devin Carter through the 2026 cycle.
Harris has a Miami pipeline going -- which is huge considering he's a native of the city and can aim to out-recruit the Hurricanes even more. He may win over more recruits given the new job title while Norvell will create the plays.
Overall, is This a Strong Promotion?
Norvell pulls a smart move here.
Opening an outside search ran the risk of losing more recruits -- including 2026 talent. Harris, despite being in the background with the schematics aspect, brings familiarity to the offense.
This is also prevents FSU from entirely scrapping Malzahn's scheme. All Norvell will do is pull his twist on the plays. Harris has another seasoned OC in the event the head coach struggles.
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