Monday morning offered, if nothing else, a lowering of the temperature regarding any immediate action. Alford promised a "comprehensive assessment" of Norvell's program at the end of the season but pledged that Florida State was "fully committed" to helping the football team rebound in the coming weeks.

The College Football Playoff can wait, because firings and the hot seat rules the zeitgeist. Luke Fickell, Hugh Freeze and Mike Norvell are up next.