FSU Football in the TOP 25?! | Florida State Football | The Smash | Warchant TV #fsu

Florida State football's potential return to the AP Top 25 in 2026 is being debated with cautious optimism, sparked by USA Today’s preseason ranking of the Seminoles at No. 22. Hosts Tom Lang and Ira Chofel dissect the feasibility of this projection, emphasizing that it would require Florida State to win at least two of five critical early-season games—against SMU, Alabama, Louisville, Miami, and Clemson—while also showing sustained improvement throughout the season. The conversation highlights a deep skepticism rooted in the program’s recent history of declining performance, especially after strong starts. Despite a promising offensive roster and the emergence of quarterback Ashton Daniels, who is under a $1 million contract, the team’s ability to maintain focus and cohesion under pressure remains the biggest hurdle. The hosts also explore broader institutional challenges, including the athletic department’s $25 million football roster spend and $400 million in facility debt, which they argue reflects a commitment to competitiveness even if results haven’t matched expectations. A key takeaway from a recent board of trustees retreat reveals growing internal awareness of looming conference realignment, with potential for a 'super conference' by 2030, which could reshape FSU’s future. Yet, the hosts express concern that the board has not yet held leadership accountable, despite clear underperformance.