What happened: Florida State has dismissed vice president and director of athletics Michael Alford, school president Richard McCullough told ESPN. Alford had held the role since January 2022.

Why it matters: Alford drew scrutiny for standing by head football coach Mike Norvell after the Seminoles opened last season 3-0 before finishing 2-7. His ouster marks a significant leadership change atop FSU's athletic department.

What to watch: Florida State now turns to finding a new athletic director, who will inherit direct oversight of Norvell's football program.