Florida State head coach Mike Norvell questions officiating after a dramatic double overtime loss to Miami.
The Florida State Seminoles suffered a heartbreaking 43-35 double overtime loss to the third-ranked Miami Hurricanes on Saturday evening. Playing on the road, the fierce rivalry matchup came down to a wild sequence of final plays that ultimately did not favor the visiting team.
The controversy centered around the game's dying moments when Florida State fought desperately to overcome a late deficit. Head coach Mike Norvell saw his team face multiple game-defining penalty decisions and reviews that heavily impacted the final outcome in regulation and overtime.
This narrow defeat drops the Seminoles to a difficult 10-21 record over the last two-plus seasons, according to information published by bleache. The program now enters a much-needed bye week before returning to host Clemson on Halloween to pursue their goal of reaching a .500 record.
Controversial Holding Penalty Negates Touchdown
With Florida State facing a tough 4th-and-21 situation from the 36-yard line, quarterback Ashton Daniels appeared to deliver a game-saving play. He connected with wide receiver Micahi Danzy in the end zone for what looked like a crucial late touchdown.
However, the celebration was cut short when officials penalized FSU left tackle Xavier Chaplin for holding. The penalty completely wiped out the score, forcing the Seminoles to rely on a desperation heave to keep their upset hopes alive against their arch-rivals.
Final Hail Mary Interception Upheld
Following the negated touchdown, Ashton Daniels launched another Hail Mary pass toward the end zone. Wideout Duce Robinson leaped high into the air to compete for the football alongside Miami defensive back Bryce Fitzgerald.
Officials on the field ultimately ruled that Bryce Fitzgerald came down with the interception to seal the victory. A subsequent video review thoroughly examined the play and officially upheld the ruling on the field, crushing Florida State's final chance.
Mike Norvell Postgame Comments and History
In his postgame media session, Mike Norvell did not hide his frustration regarding the officiating crew. When questioned about the final two plays, the head coach made it clear that he was thoroughly displeased with the crucial calls.
According to reports from Warchant.com, Mike Norvell drew comparisons to a previous controversial officiating decision during FSU's 20-13 road loss at Stanford. In that past game, running back Gavin Sawchuk was ruled just short of the goal line on an untimed down.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the FSU vs Miami game?
The No. 3 Miami Hurricanes defeated the Florida State Seminoles 43-35 in a thrilling double overtime matchup on Saturday evening.
Why was Florida State's late touchdown negated?
FSU quarterback Ashton Daniels connected with Micahi Danzy for a touchdown on 4th-and-21, but left tackle Xavier Chaplin was called for holding.
How did head coach Mike Norvell react to the final plays?
Head coach Mike Norvell expressed deep dissatisfaction with the officiating crew regarding the late game penalties and review decisions.
Who made the game-clinching interception for Miami?
Miami defensive back Bryce Fitzgerald secured the game-clinching interception on the final Hail Mary pass from Ashton Daniels.
