In a major shakeup aimed at reviving a struggling program, the Florida State Seminoles have finalized their coaching staff overhaul by signing Tony White as their new defensive coordinator. White, who spent the past two seasons leading a stout Nebraska defense, inked a three-year contract with the Seminoles, according to sources close to the situation.
White Brings Impressive Defensive Track Record
White’s defenses at Nebraska ranked among the nation’s best, finishing 13th in points allowed in 2023 before improving to 20th this season. His units are known for their physicality, discipline, and ability to create game-changing plays.
Tony is one of the brightest defensive minds in college football. His defenses are always prepared, aggressive, and get the most out of their talent. This is a home-run hire for Florida State.
– A source familiar with the Nebraska program
Well-Traveled Coordinator Brings Versatile Experience
Before his successful stint in Lincoln, White held defensive coordinator roles at several other notable programs:
- Syracuse
- Arizona State
- San Diego State
White played his college ball at UCLA and learned under respected defensive guru Rocky Long early in his coaching career. That diverse background provides a wealth of experience to draw upon as he looks to resurrect a Florida State defense that ranked a lowly 88th in points allowed and 87th in yardage in 2024.
Malzahn Officially Named New Offensive Coordinator
In a corresponding move, Florida State announced the official hiring of Gus Malzahn as offensive coordinator. Malzahn, the former head coach at Auburn and most recently UCF, fills the void left by the firing of Alex Atkins last month.
Head coach Mike Norvell, who worked with Malzahn at Tulsa in 2008-2009, expressed excitement about the reunion and Malzahn’s innovative offensive mind:
He has one of the most innovative minds in college football and a proven track record of developing elite offenses everywhere he’s been. His offenses have consistently showcased a tremendous running game combined with explosive plays through the air.
– Mike Norvell, Florida State Head Coach
The Seminole Standard: Will New Staff Deliver?
The Seminoles are betting big on their new coordinator duo to engineer a rapid turnaround. After a rock-bottom 2-10 season, Norvell knows he needs to show significant progress quickly to keep his job and restore Florida State to a place among college football’s elite.
White and Malzahn bring impressive resumes and a history of building productive units on their respective sides of the ball. However, the pressure will be immense to deliver immediate results for a proud program thirsting to regain national relevance.
All eyes will be on Tallahassee this fall to see if this new-look staff can awaken a sleeping giant and return Florida State to the lofty standards that define the Seminole football legacy. As a new era dawns, only time will tell if White, Malzahn and company can answer the call and author the Seminoles’ long-awaited renaissance.
