**EXPANSION: Big Ten Critic Paul Finebaum Claims Florida State Adds Nothing to Conference, Sparks Debate**
**March 13, 2025 – Nationwide** — In the latest wave of controversy surrounding college football’s ongoing conference realignment, ESPN’s Paul Finebaum, a prominent critic of many major conference moves, has sparked intense debate with his comments about Florida State University’s potential move to the Big Ten.
Speaking on his popular radio show, Finebaum expressed skepticism over Florida State’s fit in the Big Ten, stating that the Seminoles would add “nothing” to the conference from a competitive or cultural standpoint. His comments quickly went viral, triggering strong reactions from both Big Ten supporters and Florida State fans alike.
### Finebaum’s Controversial Statement
While discussing the ongoing reshaping of the college football landscape, Finebaum was asked about the rumored inclusion of Florida State in the Big Ten. The longtime college football commentator did not hold back.
“Florida State adds nothing to the Big Ten,” Finebaum said. “You look at their program historically, and yes, they’ve had some success, but the Big Ten has established itself with a certain identity and style of play. Florida State doesn’t match that, and quite frankly, I don’t see how they fit in. Their brand is all over the place, and they haven’t been consistently at the level of a Michigan or an Ohio State for quite some time. I just don’t see the appeal.”
Finebaum’s criticism of Florida State’s fit in the Big Ten has sparked a wave of responses, with fans of both the Seminoles and Big Ten schools quickly defending their respective teams and programs.
### Florida State Fans and Alumni Respond
Florida State fans were quick to defend their school, pointing out the Seminoles’ illustrious football history, including national championships and numerous bowl appearances. Many pointed to their sustained success in the ACC, particularly under legendary head coach Bobby Bowden, and their resurgence under current coach Mike Norvell.
“Paul Finebaum doesn’t understand what Florida State brings to the table,” said a Florida State fan in an online forum. “We have the talent, the facilities, and the recruiting power. The Seminoles would elevate the Big Ten, not the other way around.”
Others pointed out that Florida State’s ability to recruit top talent from Florida and its historical dominance in college football (including their 1993 and 1999 national championships) would provide immediate value to any conference they join.
### Big Ten Supporters React
Supporters of the Big Ten have responded with frustration, calling Finebaum’s comments short-sighted and dismissive. Many feel that Florida State’s football program would help the Big Ten grow its national brand and further establish the conference’s dominance on the East Coast.
“Paul is overlooking the financial windfall Florida State would bring to the Big Ten,” said one fan in a discussion thread. “Adding Florida State would give the conference a foothold in the state of Florida, a hotbed of talent, and solidify the Big Ten as the premier conference in the country. This move makes perfect sense both for football and for the future of college athletics.”
Indeed, Florida State’s inclusion in the Big Ten would help the conference expand its reach in the South and attract new TV markets, especially in Florida, where the Seminoles have a large and loyal fanbase.
### The Bigger Picture: Conference Realignment
The speculation about Florida State’s potential move to the Big Ten is part of a larger wave of conference realignment reshaping college sports. The SEC’s recent expansion with teams like Texas and Oklahoma joining the league has placed increased pressure on other conferences, including the Big Ten, to stay competitive.
As conferences continue to battle for dominance in terms of revenue, recruiting power, and national recognition, programs like Florida State—who have a rich history and powerful fanbase—are becoming increasingly valuable commodities. For the Big Ten, which has already added USC and UCLA in recent years, adding Florida State would further solidify its status as one of the most powerful and financially prosperous conferences in college football.
However, Finebaum’s criticism seems to stem from concerns about Florida State’s recent performance on the field. While the Seminoles have had success in the past, they have faced challenges in maintaining a consistently elite level in the competitive landscape of the ACC and the broader college football scene.
### The Future of Florida State and College Football
Florida State’s potential move to the Big Ten will continue to be a topic of intense discussion in the coming months as realignment continues to unfold. While Finebaum’s remarks may have ruffled some feathers, they underscore a larger debate about the balance of tradition, competitiveness, and marketability in college sports.
For now, all eyes will remain on Florida State as the Seminoles weigh their options, and the Big Ten assesses whether expanding further would enhance the conference’s position or disrupt its established identity. As the realignment drama continues, one thing is clear: Paul Finebaum’s controversial comments have added fuel to an already blazing fire.
**Stay tuned for more updates on the latest developments in college football’s ongoing expansion and realignment.**
