HOUSTON, Sept. 2, 2025 — Florida State University head coach Mike Norvell has been named Paul “Bear” Bryant National Coach of the Week following the Seminoles’ season-opening 31-17 win over No. 8 Alabama on Saturday at Doak Campbell Stadium.
Norvell was the 2023 recipient of the American Heart Association Paul “Bear” Bryant National Coach of the Year award after leading the Seminoles to a 13-1 record and an Atlantic Coast Conference championship.
The American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, presents the Bear Bryant Awards annually to celebrate excellence in coaching, to honor Coach Bryant’s legacy and to raise awareness and critical funds for its mission. The coaching legend died from a heart attack in 1983, just 28 days after his final victory and retirement.
The win moves Florida State to 2-3 all-time against the Crimson Tide. Only twice in the series have the two teams met inside the state of Florida, with both matchups resulting in a Seminoles win.
After Alabama struck first with a touchdown midway through the first quarter, the Seminoles scored 24 consecutive points to take a 24-7 lead early in the third quarter. Alabama cut its deficit to 24-17 with 11 minutes to play, but Gavin Sawchuk’s 14-yard touchdown run capped a 10-play, 75-yard drive with 7:17 play to complete the game’s scoring.
The Seminoles utilized a balanced running attack that accounted for 230 yards and four scores. Quarterback Tommy Castellanos, who completed nine of 14 passes for 152 yards, was also the Seminoles’ leading rusher, with 78 yards on 15 carries and a score. Micahi Danzi, Gavin Sawchuk, and Caziah Holmes also found the endzone for Florida State.
Florida State returns to action on Saturday, September 6, hosting East Texas A&M.
Each week through the remainder of the regular season, the Paul “Bear” Bryant Awards will recognize a coach weekly for leading their team to an exceptional victory. The award winner is selected by a committee of national college football media members.
Fans can follow the action at facebook.com/bryantawards, x.com/bryantawards or Instagram.com/bryantawards or the hashtag #BryantAwards. To attend the exclusive, VIP experience visit bryantawards.org.
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