Florida State’s offensive coordinator, Gus Malzahn, is stepping away from coaching after 35 years. He expressed his excitement to focus on family and personal projects. Malzahn has played a significant role at Florida State, helping the team excel, especially in total offense and rushing. He leaves the program with a promising future under head coach Mike Norvell and newly promoted offensive coordinator Tim Harris Jr.
In 2025, Florida State topped the ACC in total offense, averaging 472.1 yards per game, ranking them sixth nationally. Their rushing game shone with an impressive 218.7 yards per game, the team’s best since 1995. Notably, they recorded back-to-back games with over 700 yards, showcasing a high-powered offense. They also set a school record with 775 yards against Kent State, demonstrating a blend of power and strategy on the field.
Norvell praised Malzahn for his dedication and work ethic over the past 14 months, stating that he built a strong foundation for the future. Harris, who has experience as an offensive coordinator at UCF and FIU, will be key in maintaining the current successful offensive strategy. His ability to translate his knowledge to players will be critical for the team’s performance moving forward.
Statistics reveal an impressive scoring trend under Norvell. Over the past decade, his teams have averaged 34.6 points per game, marking him among the top three active coaches in this statistic. He’s known for producing high-scoring offenses, with his teams eclipsing 5,000 total yards on 11 occasions. Furthermore, Florida State has continually led the ACC in various offensive metrics, indicating a well-coordinated and effective gameplay strategy.
Harris’s offensive acumen was evident last season when his unit ranked top in total offense, rushing, and third-down efficiency. The emergence of standout players like Duce Robinson and Micahi Danzy contributed significantly to the offense’s success, with Robinson posting over 1,000 yards, a notable achievement in Florida State’s history.
Harris’s background is also impressive. Before joining Florida State, he coordinated a highly ranked offense at UCF, leading the nation in rushing offense. His track record suggests a potential for continued growth and success at Florida State. Additionally, his former coaching stint at Booker T. Washington High School led to multiple championships and accolades, highlighting his ability to develop young talent.
As Florida State transitions to this new chapter, the commitment to maintaining a potent offense under Harris may very well steer the program towards further achievements and victories.
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