Recardo Wright has said that he will sign with Seminoles instead of Alabama. More later...
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Warren Says He's Sticking With Seminoles
In recruiting circles, Florida State is known as a furious finisher. Are the Seminoles repeating that magic as Wednesday's National Signing Day approaches?
The Seminoles received good news on Monday night, when five-star defensive end/tight end Brandon Warren decided to remain committed to FSU.
Warren, from Alcoa, Tenn., had received a late push from the Tennessee Volunteers. In fact, Warren came away so impressed from his visit to Tennessee over the weekend that he said the Vols had pulled even with the Seminoles.
But Warren announced on a Tennessee television show that he felt FSU was the best place for him. Warren committed to the Seminoles last summer.
Monday, January 30, 2006
For What It's Worth:Spiller Enjoyed Visit
Florida State fans want to know. Did C.J. Spiller enjoy his visit to FSU this past weekend?
Yes, he did.
Spiller, considered one the nation's top all-purpose running backs from Lake Butler Union County, told Scout.com the Seminoles are looking to return to their rushing days of Warrick Dunn (1993-96).
Dunn, of course, is the program's leader in career yards (3,959) and single-season yards (1,242 in 1995).
FSU's running game has struggled in recent seasons, and not even the one-two punch of Leon Washington and Lorenzo Booker could gain yardage consistently behind an injury-depleted offensive line last year.
Spiller also said he has a chance to contribute immediately at FSU on special teams. Spiller credited Booker for answering all of his questions.
"“Booker was straight with me and he told me all about the depth chart,” Spiller told Scout.com.
“He told that he has been treated very well at Florida State . I got my questions answered by him and the depth chart there is no longer a concern."
Spiller continues to list FSU, Florida and Clemson as his favorites heading into Wednesday's National Signing Day. He expects to announce his decision at a signing-day ceremony at school Wednesday morning.
Sunday, January 29, 2006
Three Commit to FSU During Visit
By all accounts, Florida State made the most of its last chance to impress 12 recruits over the weekend.
At least three players committed to FSU on Sunday, giving the Seminoles welcomed momentum heading into Wednesday's National Signing Day.
Brent Brewer, of Tyrone, Ga., headlines the commitments, saying he's looking forward to playing football and baseball at FSU. Brewer is a receiver in football and shortstop in baseball. Brewer selected FSU over Georgia and Mississippi State.
Brewer, who watched the baseball Seminoles scrimmage during Saturday's Fan Day at Dick Howser Stadium, said he spent a lot of time with tailback Lorenzo Booker, quarterback Xavier Lee and safety Myron Rolle, who enrolled in January and is part of this year's signing class.
"That was the highlight of my trip,” Brewer told Scout.com.
“We went out and we also played video games. I really fit in with those guys and we are going to win some National Championships’ together.”
Receiver Alex Rose, of Jacksonville First Coast, also committed to the Seminoles, according to Scout.com. Rose, who said he grew up a fan of FSU, had previously committed to Auburn.
FSU also landed offensive lineman Tyler Graves, of Sumrall, Miss. Graves, a 6-foot-6, 290-pounder who made an unofficial visit to FSU last November, had previously committed to Southern Miss.
"I committed to Florida State because it was a dream of mine,” Graves told Scout.com. “I’ve always wanted to be a Seminole.”
FSU, which currently has 21 commitments, wants to sign at least 25 players.
North Florida Christian teammates Marcus Sims and Ochuko Jenije also visited the Seminoles over the weekend. Sims' favorites include FSU, Clemson and Southern Cal.
With Patrick Robinson, of Miami Gulliver Prep, committing to the Florida Gators on Wednesday, Jenije has been the Seminoles' primary focus at cornerback. Jenije has grown up a fan of the Seminoles and is expected to sign with FSU.
Other key visitors included tailback C.J. Spiller of Lake Butler Union County and offensive lineman Daron Rose of Tampa Jefferson.
Also, Rivals.com reported linebacker Michael Morgan, of Dallas, also committed to the Seminoles. But Morgan wasn't expected to announce his decision until late Sunday night.
Is FSU Spinning Its Wheels On Some Recruits?
Florida State, in dire need of offensive linemen, brought in two added recruits this weekend for official visits.
Ray Dominguez, of Bainbridge, Ga., and Tyler Graves, of Sumrall, Miss., made the trip to Tallahassee. Both have committed elsewhere, however.
Dominguez, a 6-foot-5, 250-pounder, has committed to Arkansas. Graves, a 6-foot-6, 290-pounder who made an unofficial visit to FSU in November, has committed to Southern Miss.
The Seminoles have been forced to scramble for offensive linemen after Brandon Walker, a junior-college All-American from Coffeyville (Kan.) Community College, selected Oklahoma over FSU on Friday.
Also, highly regarded Orlando Franklin of Delray Beach Atlantic, continues to list Miami and Florida as co-favorites over FSU.
Chiles High offensive lineman Ryan Kessling, a first-team All-Big Bend selection, received a visit from FSU coaches on Friday. Kessling, however, has committed to Louisville.
Saturday, January 28, 2006
Ten Recruits Visit FSU This weekend
Ten football recruits are visiting Florida State this weekend.
Two are committed to the Seminoles -- fullback Seddrick Holloway of Lincoln High and tight end Caz Piurowski of Land O' Lakes.
In recruiting circles, Holloway and Piurowski are considered solid commitments. That simply means they are not likely to change their minds prior to Wednesday's National Signing Day.
A third player in the group also is committed.
But receiver Alex Rose, of Jacksonville First Coast, is committed to Auburn. FSU, of course, is hoping to change Rose's allegiance to the Seminoles this weekend. Rose grew up a fan of FSU and has indicated he's interested in the Seminoles.
"They have to make me feel comfortable," Rose told Rivals.com
"I want to get out there and play. ... That's the school I liked growing up. It plays a factor because if I go to FSU, I won't have to find the passion."
FSU has yet to receive a commitment from a receiver. Receivers still be on the Seminoles' recruiting board include Brent Brewer of Tyrone, Ga., Damon McDaniel of Virginia Beach, Va., Greg Mathews of Orlando, Preston Parker of Delray Beach Atlantic and Rose.
Brewer is visiting FSU this weekend. McDaniel has committed to Florida but is said to be wavering. Mathews is committed to Michigan, while Parker lists Miami as a favorite.
Friday, January 27, 2006
Last Recruiting Weekend
Florida State is poised for furious finish in recruiting. Again.
This weekend marks the final chance for recruits to visit their favorite college football teams across the country prior to Wednesday's National Signing Day.
The Seminoles are expecting 10 recruits, including high-priority players such as tailback C.J. Spiller of Lake Butler Union County, offensive lineman Daron Rose of Tampa Jefferson and linebacker/tailback Marcus Sims of North Florida Christian.
Dave Peters, a recruiting analyst for Scout.com, believes the Seminoles must make a favorable impression with Rose in order to fulfill their needs along the offensive line.
Rose's three favorites are FSU, Michigan State and South Carolina. He recently eliminated Florida from his list.
"My guess is their No. 1 target this weekend is Daron Rose," Peters said. "Florida State is in desperate need of offensive tackles."
Still, Peters feels Rose will sign with the Seminoles, pointing to Rose's relationship with FSU assistant coach Odell Haggins and the team's deficiencies along the offensive line. Haggins, who coaches FSU's defensive tackles, has handled Rose's recruitment.
Although Peters likes FSU's recruiting class -- the Seminoles have 19 commitments -- he's not convinced FSU will meet its needs along the offensive line.
"Right now I would say I would give them a B-plus overall," Peters said. "I think they will sign a few decent offensive linemen but they definitely could have done a little better in that area."
Peters and Rivals.com national recruiting analyst Jeremy Crabtree, however, both agree there might not be a better head coach down the recruiting stretch than FSU's Bobby Bowden.
"Nobody closes as strong as Bobby Bowden, especially the last couple of years," Crabtree said. "He's (Bowden) one of the best closers and his staff has really done well."
Three Noles In Senior Bowl Game
Florida State will again be well represented in this Saturday's Senior Bowl. Three former Noles, all defensive players, are scheduled to participate in the annual all-star game to be played in Mobile, Alabama.
Wimbley hasn't shown any signs of his prior knee injury this week. Last year, wide receiver Craphonso Thorpe, offensive lineman Ray Willis and cornerback Bryant McFadden all took part in the event and played well for the NFL coaches and scouts in attendance. This year's trio of Brodrick Bunkley, Kamerion Wimbley and Pat Watkins are hoping to do the same.
A solid turnout this Saturday could do wonders for the draft stock of all three former Seminole defenders.
"I'm trying to take full advantage of this," Watkins told Warchant.com. "That's my plan, come out here and compete. I feel privileged just to be here. I love the competition and going against the best people in the country. It's a great time to show what I'm made of."
If anybody needs a good week in Mobile it's Watkins. Entering this past season, some publications tabbed the 6-foot-4 safety as a preseason All-American but his senior campaign was average at best. In fact, in three games sophomore Roger Williams earned the start over the more experienced Watkins.
Despite a lackluster regular season, the Tallahassee native came on like gangbusters in the Orange Bowl versus Penn State where he led FSU in tackles, including 1.5 for loss. He has taken that positive momentum into this week's Senior Bowl practices and the NFL onlookers have noticed.
"I had a couple people tell me I'm looking real good," Watkins said. "I had a real good week and just need to try to improve... It's been a real good week, it's fun and got a lot of good experience playing against other high caliber players."
In addition to next month's pro combine in Indianapolis, the lanky safety plans on participating in Florida State's Pro Day scheduled for March 16th. That's where his draft stock could really skyrocket. During last July's player testing, Watkins turned in a 4.5 40-yard dash and an amazing 3.91 time in the shuttle run (top mark the day). In addition, his 10'8" broad jump, and 39" vertical jump wasn't bad either.
"Those are the things I'm going to continue to work on," he said. "I'm training down in Ft. Lauderdale and I hope to come back faster and better than ever."
Watkins isn't the only Seminole with something to prove this week. Defensive end Kamerion Wimbley was leading the ACC in sacks and appeared destined for the first round of the NFL draft before a questionable chop block by a center at NC State resulted in a knee injury. After missing the next three games, he was able to return in time for the Orange Bowl but was still not 100 percent.
There is still a chance he could fall in the first round if his knee holds up to all the poking and prodding from NFL doctors. It would also help if he has a good outing this Saturday and tests out well in Indianapolis and at FSU's Pro Day.
With his dominating performances in the ACC Championship Game and the Orange Bowl, and by leading all interior linemen in tackles for loss this past season, you wouldn't think Brodrick Bunkley has nothing to prove. Nevertheless, he somehow didn't earn first team All-ACC honors and there are still a few NFL experts that say he won't be drafted in the first round.
So far, the former Seminole noseguard has been the talk of the practices for the South squad and is silencing his critics. Even though he suffered a minor concussion on Tuesday, he is still expected to play this Saturday.
Kickoff is set for 4:00 p.m. and the contest will be nationally-televised by ESPN.
Walker Says No To Seminoles
Florida State's most pressing need this recruiting season has been along the offensive line.
While the Seminoles have added needed commitments, they lost out on highly regarded Brandon Walker this morning. Walker, a junior-college All-American from Coffeyville (Kan.) Community College, announced to Rivals.com he would attend Okalahoma.
Walker, who said he grew up a fan of FSU, selected the Sooners over the Seminoles.
FSU has received commitments from five offensive linemen -- tackle Shannon Boatman, who already is enrolled at FSU; tackle Matt Hardrick (Hargrave Military Academy); guard Evan Bellamy (Miami Gulliver Prep); guard Brandon Davis (Miami); and guard/center Zach Hillery (Winter Springs).
Other linemen still considering FSU include Daron Rose of Tampa Jefferson, Orlando Franklin of Delray Beach Atlantic and Clifton Geathers of Carvers Bay, S.C. Rose is scheduled to visit FSU this weekend.
FSU also has received commitments from two tight ends -- Caz Piurowski of Land O'Lakes and Brandon Warren of Alcoa, Tenn. Piurowski is a former teammate of FSU quarterback Drew Weatherford and the son of former FSU linebacker Paul
Thursday, January 26, 2006
Holloway Commits to FSU
Seddrick Holloway, Lincoln High's versatile fullback who had a 70-yard touchdown run against Valdosta High this season, has committed to Florida State.
This marks the sixth consecutive year a player from Lincoln will make the short trip across town to play at FSU.
"It was a tough decision and I did a lot of soul-searching," Holloway told the Tallahassee Democrat this morning.
"But I knew FSU would be home for me. It has been my dream ever since I was a little kid. I just strived to make my dream come true."
Holloway, who joined former Lincoln quarterback Gavin Dickey as a four-year starter for the Trojans, selected the Seminoles over Kansas State, Kentucky and Illinois. FSU running backs coach Billy Sexton visited Holloway at Lincoln Wednesday.
Quotable Quotes
TALLAHASSEE — Offensive lineman Andre Smith, of Birmingham, Ala., won't be coming to Florida State after all. Smith, who is rated the nation's No. 2 prospect by Rivals.com, crossed off the Seminoles from his list of favorites on Monday.
"I know I won't be going to Florida State," Smith told Rivals.com. "I've decided to cut them from my choices. It wasn't really anything against them, but it just didn't feel right."
Is Spiller Headed West?
The Los Angeles Daily News reported that Lake Butler Union County tailback C.J. Spiller had committed to Southern Cal. That's big news -- if it were true.
Spiller, who is scheduled to visit FSU this weekend, says he will announce his choice of school on signing day. Favorites include the Seminoles, Florida, Miami, Clemson and USC.
Spiller's mother, Patricia, had a good laugh concerning the report, telling Rivals.com, "I guess now I know how those celebrities in L.A. feel. The press gets something and they just run with it. And C.J.'s not even a celebrity either."
Spiller is listed at #16 in the Football Hot 100.
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
2006 FSU Football Schedule Released
Florida State coaches should quickly learn how good their team will be this season.
The Seminoles open at Miami on Labor Day night and then play host to Clemson 11 days later on Sept. 16. FSU hasn't defeated the Hurricanes in Miami since 1998. Clemson, winner of two of the past three meetings against FSU, should be nationally ranked entering the season. Even though Miami is in the ACC's Coastal Division, those two games should be key in determining whether FSU returns to the ACC Championship game in Jacksonville on Dec. 2.
Those two games are the early highlights of a schedule that includes eight home games, tied as the most for FSU.
"Eight home games can present some issues and challenges; however, it is certainly a plus from a competitive standpoint and we'll play nationally ranked divisional opponents such as Clemson and Boston College in Tallahassee," FSU athletic director Dave Hart said. "Miami and Florida provide rival bookends and we get an open date before a road Thursday night game.
"The ACC Championship game is in Jacksonville again so our number one priority is to play at least ten games in the state of Florida.”
In addition to Clemson, FSU will host Troy (Sep. 9), Rice (Sept. 23), Boston College (Oct. 21), Virginia (Nov. 4), Wake Forest (Nov. 11), Western Michigan (Nov. 18) and Florida (Nov. 25). FSU's final four regular-season games will be in Tallahassee.
The Seminoles's Thursday night game on ESPN will be at North Carolina State on Oct. 5. FSU also will travel to Duke (Oct. 14) a second consecutive season. The road schedule finishes with a game at Maryland on Oct. 28. FSU has one bye on Sept. 30.
Kickoff times for the games won't be announced until later. The N.C. State and Miami games will be at night.
FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY
2006 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE
DATE OPPONENT SITE TIME
September 4 Miami Miami, FL
(Monday Night)
SEPTEMBER 9 TROY TALLAHASSEE, FL
SEPTEMBER 16 CLEMSON TALLAHASSEE, FL
SEPTEMBER 23 RICE TALLAHASSEE, FL
September 30 Open Date
October 5 North Carolina State Raleigh, NC
(Thursday Night)
October 14 Duke Durham, NC
OCTOBER 21 BOSTON COLLEGE TALLAHASSEE, FL
October 28 Maryland College Park, MD
NOVEMBER 4 VIRGINIA TALLAHASSEE, FL
NOVEMBER 11 WAKE FOREST TALLAHASSEE, FL
NOVEMBER 18 WESTERN MICHIGAN TALLAHASSEE, FL
NOVEMBER 25 FLORIDA TALLAHASSEE, FL
Meinrod Denied Extra Year by NCAA
Florida State senior offensive lineman Matt Meinrod learned today that the NCAA has denied his appeal for a sixth year of eligibility. The decision was not unexpected for Meinrod, who had considered the appeal a long shot
Meinrod, a starting offensive guard and one of the team's best leaders, dislocated his left ankle and suffered a fractured fibula against Wake Forest and missed the remainder of the 2005 season. Meinrod suffered a season-ending torn ACL in the 2004 season opener against Miami.
Saturday, January 21, 2006
Friday, January 20, 2006
Two Noles Playing In East West Shrine Game
Two Florida State football players are participating in Saturday's East West Shrine Game at San Antonio.
Tailback Leon Washington and tight end Matt Henshaw will play for the East squad in the 4 p.m. game on ESPN2. Washington ran for 2,011 yards and 12 touchdowns in his FSU career, while Henshaw caught 29 passes for 305 yards and two touchdowns.
Former FSU linebacker Reggie Herring, now Arkansas' defensive coordinator and linebackers coach, will be an assistant for the East squad. Herring played at FSU from 1978-80.
Florida defensive back Vernell Brown (41 tackles, three interceptions in 2005) and offensive lineman Randy Hand (41 career starts) will also suit up for the East.
The Gators' Jeremy Mincey, a defensive end who had 62 tackles in 2005, will play in the Hula Bowl today at 7 p.m. on ESPN2.
FSU defensive back Pat Watkins and defensive linemen Brodrick Bunkley and Kamerion Wimbley will be playing in the Senior Bowl on Jan. 28 (4 p.m. on ESPN).
Rouse, Lewis Kicked Off Team
Florida State coach Bobby Bowden announced Friday the dismissal of former Lincoln High star Fred Rouse and Cornelius Lewis from the football program.
Lewis, a redshirt freshman offensive guard, started three games for the Seminoles in 2005.
Rouse was a true freshman wide receiver who started the Orange Bowl game against Penn State. He had six catches for 114 yards and one touchdown in 2005.
"Both players are dismissed for conduct detrimental to the welfare of the football team," Bowden said.
Thursday, January 19, 2006
Thacker Commits to FSU
Sanford defensive lineman Doug "Bud" Thacker has had a change of heart -- as expected.
Thacker, who had originally committed to Virginia Tech, has told both Scout.com and Rivals.com today that he will sign with Florida State.
Thacker's commitment pushes the Seminoles' total to 19 heading into National Signing Day on Feb. 1.
Thacker, who grew up a fan of FSU, visited the Seminoles last weekend. FSU coach Bobby Bowden has scheduled an in-home visit with Thacker on Friday. Thacker, who had a strong performance in the CaliFlorida Bowl in California earlier this month, said his change of heart was easy to explain.
“It felt more like home and it’s a lot closer to my home,” Thacker told Scout.com.
“I’ve always been a Seminole and I couldn’t turn them down.”
Thacker is the third defensive lineman to commit to the Seminoles, joining Paul Griffin and Ryan McMahon.
FSU's commitment list includes defensive tackle Callahan Bright, who had attended Hargrave Military Academy and is expected to enroll in a Division-II school due to academics.
Tom Nugent Passes Away
Former Florida State football coach Tom Nugent, who led FSU's ascent into big-time college football and poplularized the I-formation, died on Thursday.
Nugent was FSU's coach from 1953-58, compiling a 34-28-1 record. He engineered FSU's first victory over a major school (Tennessee), and he lobbied successfully for the first game against Florida in 1958. He also coached at VMI and Maryland.
He was aslo selected to receive the Outstanding Contribution to Amateur Football award by the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame in 2000.
‘‘It’s nice they remember me,’’ he told the Tallahassee Democrat in 2000.
Nugent was chosen for his creation of the I-formation, the typewriter huddle and the double quarterback formation, as well as for the numerous clinics he staged using top-name coaches.
Lee Expected to Be Ready for Spring Practice
Florida State offensive coordinator Jeff Bowden is a bit more optimistic that backup quarterback Xavier Lee can be worked into some of his plans for spring practice.
Lee underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right shoulder on Friday. After returning from a recruiting trip, Bowden spoke with Director of Sports Medicine Randy Oravetz about the surgery and his rehabilitation.
''Randy's got a great plan for him,'' Bowden said. ''I have a good idea that (Oravetz) will let me do some of the things I want to do with Xavier. We'll have a better idea as he goes (through the rehabilitation).''
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
Recruited Now Recruiters
Florida State coaches are through recruiting Myron Rolle and Christian Ponder - members of the 2006 recruiting class who enrolled at FSU last week.
But the two continue to recruit for their new team as prospects visit FSU in the final weeks before National Signing Day on Feb.1. Rolle said he talked up Florida State during the Army All-America Bowl on Jan.7. He said his roommate was C.J. Spiller, considered the top back in the nation after rushing for nearly 3,400 yards the past two seasons. Rolle also spoke with Andrew Smith, an offensive lineman from Birmingham who is may visit FSU before National Signing Day. Smith is considered the nation's top guard.
Ponder, who is from Colleyville, Texas, a Dallas suburb, has spoken with linebacker Michael Morgan from Dallas Skyline. Morgan had 10 sacks and 103 tackles as a senior. Among the schools recruiting him are Oklahoma and Southern California. Morgan is scheduled to visit FSU the weekend of Jan.27, which is shaping up to be an important one for the Seminoles. Lake Butler Union County's Spiller, North Florida Christian's Ochuko Jenije and Marcus Sims are among those expected make their official visits that weekend.
Top OL Still Considering Schools
Recruiting fans can't seem to get enough of Andre Smith, ranked the nation's top offensive lineman by recruiting services and the No. 2 overall recruit by Rivals.com. Smith, from Birmingham, Ala., visited Alabama last weekend. He is scheduled to visit Louisiana State this weekend, and will pick between Florida, Florida State, Auburn and Mississippi for his last visit.
What exactly is Smith, who also has visited Southern Cal and Miami, looking for in a school?
"I want to be in a great FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) program," Smith told Scout. com.
"I also want to major in Business Management, so I want to make sure the school has a good business program. And lastly, I want to be able to get a long with the coaches. That is about it."
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
Recruiting News
CHANGE OF PLANS
Florida State fans were hopeful Andre Smith, considered the nation's top offensive lineman, would make FSU one of his final two visits before National Signing Day on Feb. 1. That doesn't appear to be the case, however.
Smith, of Birmingham, Ala., visited Alabama over the weekend. Smith said he plans to visit LSU this weekend and either Auburn, Florida or Mississippi on Jan. 27. Despite marking off FSU from his visit list, Smith said the Seminoles remain among his favorites.
COIN TOSS
Sanford defensive lineman Doug "Bud" Thacker, a Virginia Tech commitment, visited FSU over the weekend. Thacker, according to Rivals.com, was so impressed with the Seminoles he lists them as a co-favorite with the Hokies.
Thacker is scheduled to receive a home visit from FSU coach Bobby Bowden on Friday. Thacker also has family ties to Virginia Tech -- his father played for the Hokies in the 1970s.
Monday, January 16, 2006
Sunday, January 15, 2006
Georgia Defensive End Commits to FSU
Kevin McNeil felt at home at Florida State during his official visit
this weekend. McNeil, a 6-foot-3, 245-pound defensive end from Camden County High in Kingsland, Ga., committed to FSU today. McNeil pushes FSU's commitment total to 18 with National Signing Day on Feb. 1 quickly approaching.
Saturday, January 14, 2006
Sexton Ends His FSU Football Career
Florida State quarterback Wyatt Sexton has decided to end his football career at FSU to focus on his health and academics.Sexton missed last season after being diagnosed with Lyme disease in June.
Sexton started seven games as a sophomore during the 2004 season earning a 5-2 record. He had been cleared to participate in spring football to compete with Drew Weatherford and Xavier Lee for the starting spot this fall.
Sexton completed 142 of 257 passes for 1,717 yards with eight touchdowns and eight interceptions.
Sexton informed FSU athletic director Dave Hart of his decision Friday evening
Looking Back: Brights Spots in 2005 Season
Although there were a lot more dark spots than bright ones, I believe there were some that are worth mentioning.
First, the play of freshmen QB Drew Weatherford was excellent and points to a bright future for a kid that seems to be grounded.
There were a lot of freshmen that played and the play of receiver Greg Carr was outstanding and it looks like he could be a big time receiver at FSU.
Also, Tony Carter's play in the secondary was better than I expected and I look for him to excel at his position.
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Lorenzo Booker Will Return For Senior Year
Encouraged by what coach Bobby Bowden said to him about the running game, Lorenzo Booker confirmed Thursday that he will return to Florida State for his senior season. Booker said it was also the case of having unfinished business to address on the field and in the classroom.
"I felt like I'm not done," said Booker, who needs under 30 hours to graduate with a social science degree. "I came here to obviously try to win a national championship and I just felt like I really haven't gotten the opportunity to show what I can do. I feel like this year since Leon (Washington) is gone, I really have that chance. Not only that, but the people here are really great."
Quotable Quote
There's some doubt in my mind that I didn't really leave with a statement like I really wanted to. In high school ... I really just blew out my competition, but in college it's more competition and I really feel like I did all I could do to the best of my ability." - Junior linebacker Ernie Sims, on leaving for the NFL after not having the all-star college career predicted for him when he was one of the nation's top recruits in 2003.
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
Two Seminoles Named to 2005 FWAA Team
The ACC led all conferences with five players named to the 2005 Football Writers Association of America (FWAA) Freshman All-America team announced Wednesday morning during the association's annual awards breakfast.
ACC players named were Florida State quarterback Drew Weatherford, Georgia Tech offensive tackle Andrew Gardner, Duke linebacker Michael Brown, Florida State defensive back Tony Carter and Miami defensive back Kenny Phillips.
The team and coach were selected by a group of writers led by FWAA vice-president Mike Griffith of the Knoxville News-Sentinel. Both true freshmen and red-shirt freshmen were considered for the team.
2005 FWAA FRESHMAN ALL-AMERICA TEAM
OFFENSE
Pos. Player, School Ht. Wt. Hometown
QB - Drew Weatherford, Florida State 6-3 210 Land O' Lakes, Fla.
RB - Darren McFadden, Arkansas 6-2 210 North Little Rock, Ark. **
RB - Steve Slaton, West Virginia 5-10 185 Levittown, Pa. **
RB - Tyrell Sutton, Northwestern 5-9 190 Akron, Ohio **
WR - Davone Bess, Hawaii 5-10 187 Oakland, Calif. **
WR - Sidney Rice, South Carolina 6-4 191 Gaffney, S.C.
OL - Andrew Gardner, Georgia Tech 6-6 285 Tyrone, Ga.
OL - Jonathan Luigs, Arkansas 6-4 301 Little Rock, Ark.
OL - Jeremy Perry, Oregon State 6-2 315 Kahuku, Hawaii
OL - Cole Popovich, Fresno State 6-2 275 Oakhurst, Calif.
OL - Max Unger, Oregon 6-5 305 Honaunau, Hawaii
C - Robby Felix, UTEP 6-3 275 Corona, Calif.
DEFENSE
Pos. Player, School Ht. Wt. Hometown
DL - Steve Davis, Minnesota 6-2 230 St. Louis, Mo. **
DL - Mitch King, Iowa 6-3 250 Burlington, Iowa
DL - Brian Orakpo, Texas 6-4 238 Houston, Texas
DL - Barry Turner, Nebraska 6-3 245 Antioch, Tenn. **
LB - Michael Brown, Duke 5-11 225 Houston, Texas **
LB - Daniel Holtzclaw, Eastern Michigan 6-2 220 Enid, Okla. **
LB - Rey Maualuga, USC 6-5 250 Eureka, Calif. **
LB - Tim McCarthy, Northern Illinois 6-0 235 Neenah, Wis.
DB - Joe Burnett, Central Florida 5-11 180 Eustis, Fla. **
DB - Tony Carter, Florida State 5-9 160 Jacksonville, Fla.
DB - Courtney Greene, Rutgers 6-1 180 New Rochelle, N.Y. **
DB - Kenny Phillips, Miami 6-2 200 Miami, Fla. **
An Open Letter to FSU Athletic Administration
As a lifetime Seminole fan and FSU alumnus, I am deeply disturbed by the direction in which the FSU program seems to be headed. In talking with other Seminole supporters, they too are tired of the excuses by the head coach and the wait until next year mantra that we constantly hear.
There seems to be a disconnect with reality and we now have the head coach resorting to calling fans and supporters stupid and cowards. We have had his son hired as offensive coordinator and "shoved down our throats" and at the same time told that we have no right to criticize his apparent incompetence.
It is not clear whether this violates the nepotism rules in that it appears to be a sham. Bobby Bowden publicly states that he will never reassign or fire his son while we are told that Mickey Andrews is the evaluator of Jeff Bowden. That seems to be a sham to me.
As we have seen with other programs, it does not take long for a program to decline rapidly and I am afraid that is what is happening at FSU. FSU is no longer considered to be a top program and yet we have a coach that says nothing is wrong and it just needs "minor fixing." We have been told that for the last five years while the program continues to decline. Enough is enough.
I urge you to exercise your responsibility and do what is best for the FSU football program, the university, and the supporters of FSU. Not for Bobby Bowden. I believe that this is a critical time for our program and hope that you will assert your leadership in this matter.
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
Bunkley,Reid Honored
Brodrick Bunkley and Willie Reid were named to ESPN.com's All-bowl team. Bunkley made seven tackles, including two for loss, against Penn State in the Orange Bowl. Reid scored on an 87-yard punt return and finished with 235 all-purpose yards in FSU's 26-23 loss to Penn State.
What FSU Discussion Board Members Are Saying
After five years of mediocrity our head coach is singing the praises of the lord when he sees he is only LOSING by three.Bobby, I love you and what you have done for us. However, if changes are not made at the offensive coaching level... Then please start making those tee times for next football season.
___________
in 2006??...may the gods of the gridiron be kind...THIS HAS BEEN THE WORST DISPLAY OF SEMINOLE FOOTBALL SINCE 1971-1975. And you know what? We hired a whole new staff back then too!
__________
Bobby is lucky to be making 2 mill a year, while loosing 4 or 5 games a year, with the best talent in the world...Obviously, his son is the biggest reason, among others...but his refusal to get another OC is his decision and he DOES NOT deserve any raises. That is total crap.
__________
I don't think the kicker should be a scholarship player initially on FSU anymore. They only thing they do is lose games because of their kickers. When was the last time FSU won BECAUSE of their kicking game? What they should do is have walk -ons compete in the summer camp and then if the walk on does well during the season THEN offer a scholarship afterwards. Save that scholarship for someone that is going to contribute, like an offensive lineman or cornerback. The kickers is taking up valuable space and not contributing. The punter should remain on scholarship but not the kickers.
__________
are you insane? what was jeff's excuse last year? and the year before that? and the year before that? and the year before that? dont you realize that a incompetent man like jeff could come up with an excuse EVERY year for why his offense sucks instead of doing the one thing an honorable man would have done right from the beginning, namely, take the blame himself.
___________
Jeff will be O.C. next year, the offense will suck AGAIN (6th year running for him at that point). Then, Jeff and his father will start making excuses again, and I suppose people like yourself will buy them hook, line and sinker. again.
___________
I think Jeff B. is very good for all the teams that FSU plays. If it wasn't for him we might lose, but thanks to his coaching abilities or lack of, we have a far better chance of winning. I think they should keep him for as long as they want to.
A loyal GATOR fan
Monday, January 09, 2006
Sims Will Enter Draft
Florida State linebacker Ernie Sims announced today that he will enter the NFL Draft.
Sims To Announce Decision at Noon
Florida State linebacker Ernie Sims will announce his decision on entering the NFL Draft or returning for his senior season today at noon.
Sunday, January 08, 2006
Email Your Concerns
If you are upset with the direction that the FSU football program is headed, I urge you to email the following people and express your concerns. Be respectful but firm in your concerns. Supposedly there will be a meeting between Bowden and Dave Hart next week so please send them asap.
Emails:
T.K. Wetherell, FSU President president@mailer.fsu.edu
Dave Hart,FSU Athletic Director jgreve@mailer.fsu.edu
Charlie Carr, Assoc. Athletics Director clcarr@mailer.fsu.edu
Diannne Harrison, Faculty Representative dfharris@mailer.fsu.edu
Andy Miller, FSU Seminole Boosters amiller@admin.fsu.edu
Al Lawson, Seminole Boosters ajlawson@admin.fsu.edu
Saturday, January 07, 2006
FSU Recruiting Headed South
FSU woes continue as our recruiting is headed downward. Earlier today, scout.com had FSU at number 11. We are now at number 14. In past weeks we were in the top 5 and then top 10. There is no question in my mind that it is due to our lackluster offense and the current nature of our football program.
Friday, January 06, 2006
Enough Is Enough
As a lifetime Seminole fan and an FSU alumnus, I am thoroughly disgusted by the direction that the FSU football program is headed. Enough is enough.
All we get out of the head coach is excuses and I am going to fix it. Nothing gets done and the team heads farther downhill.
It is time to make major changes in the FSU program for the school, not for a person.
The following are some of the things that could correct the course:
1. Ask Bobby Bowden to fire his son or place him in another position. If he says no, then ask for his resignation and buy out his contract.
2. Set a time certain for Bobby Bowden's retirement. No longer than two years is the goal.
3. Assess each and every coach with the exception of Mickey Andrews and if necessary, replace the ones that are not getting the job done.
4. Make a public statement that FSU will never hire a relative of a football coach.
5. Assemble past FSU players such as Warrick Dunn and Derrick Brooks and have them make a joint statement regarding the program and the new direction.
6. Assess our recruiting strategy and change it if necessary.
Thursday, January 05, 2006
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
Quotable Quotes
" But Paterno did what Bobby Bowden has been unwilling to do. He hired former University of Florida head coach Galen Hall to run the Lions' offense - a job that used to belong to Paterno's son. Jay Paterno remains on staff as Penn State's quarterbacks coach, but Hall - who won a pair of national titles at Oklahoma as offensive coordinator - runs the show.
As we know, many FSU fans would Bobby Bowden to follow the same blueprint."
He won't." TBO.com , Jan. 4, 2006
" Should we be proud of FSU for even appearing in a BCS game? Or disappointed the 'Noles couldn't prevent a second five-loss season in four years?
Even after seeing the 'Noles playing their best defensive game since their season-opening win over Miami, it's hard to know how to feel about FSU.
You could say the 'Noles met expectations because they are the conference champions.
But then you could also accuse them blowing one huge opportunity after another." Jemele Hill, Orlando Sentinel, Jan. 4, 2006
"Yet, in the end, FSU simply was not ready.
The Seminoles made too many penalties on too many critical plays. They failed to take advantage of excellent field position. The defense played well enough to win, but the offense could not have been more unprepared." John Romano, St. Petersburg Times, Jan.4, 2006
Cromartie To Go Pro
MIAMI (AP) -- Antonio Cromartie missed Florida State's 2005 season, and he won't be coming back for 2006.
Cromartie, a standout cornerback who tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during a summertime workout, announced Tuesday that he will enter the NFL draft and skip his senior year. He had four interceptions and two defensive touchdowns in his sophomore season.
"My knee feels great and I have been working extremely hard to get myself ready to play again," Cromartie said before the Seminoles lost 26-23 in triple overtime to Penn State in the Orange Bowl. "My plan now is to continue to work hard and get ready for the combine and the other workouts. I feel like I am ready to play at the next level."
What Can You Say?
The Seminoles played their hearts out tonight in this loss. Again, kudos to Mickey Andrews, the best defensive coordinator in the country.
What can you say about the offense? The players played their hearts out. I,however, sincerely hope this is the last game that Jeff Bowden is involved in for FSU.
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
Why Florida State Is Better Than Penn State
Explaining why Florida State is better than Penn State is one of the easiest assignments in the history of easy journalism assignments. It's like comparing the beach to an arctic outpost.
It wasn't easy, but I've narrowed my list to 10 reasons:
1. In Tallahassee, snowplows aren't required to get to class during the winter.
2. Penn State is mathematically challenged. It plays in a conference that has 11 teams but calls itself the Big Ten.
3. Florida State has Chief Osceola, Renegade and a flaming spear. Penn State has some guy in a furry lion suit.
4. Former FSU quarterback Brad Johnson won a Super Bowl with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Former Penn State quarterback Todd Blackledge attended a Super Bowl.
5. It's easy to travel to Tallahassee. To get to State College, you need a plane, two buses and a dog sled.
6. Seminole Indians are an American Indian people who moved into North Florida in the 18th century. A Nittany Lion is what, exactly?
7. Bobby Bowden and Joe Paterno have faced each other once, in the 1990 Blockbuster Bowl. Bowden won (24-17).
8. Florida State is home to the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory. Penn State is close to the magnetic North Pole.
9. With his aviator sunglasses and snappy straw hats, Bobby Bowden is quite the fashion plate on the sidelines. Joe Paterno's glasses went out of vogue with Buddy Holly.
10. People live in Pennsylvania because they have to. People live in Florida because they want to.
Jodie Wagner, a Neighborhood Post sportswriter, is a graduate of Florida State University. She and her two Seminoles-in-waiting practice their war chants at home.
And the Award Goes To...
In the spirit of the new year and the end of the season, I thought that I would hand out some well deserved awards:
Bobby Bowden gets the:
Please Make Our Day Award
Fans had better be glad I'd like to keep this job," Bobby Bowden after fans were critical of his son.
(What unbelievable arrogance and lack of understanding about the current state of FSU football. )
To Peter Tom Willis and others who have tried to let fans know how awful our offense is:
The Truth Hurts Award
During one game, FSU radio analyst Peter Tom Willis, a former Seminole quarterback, referred to the unit as "a high school offense." Another alum, NFL linebacker Derrick Brooks, has expressed frustration with the team's struggles. And opposing schools are now starting to use the younger Bowden against Florida State in recruiting wars.
Peter Tom Willis on his radio show et al.
To Jeff Bowden who hasn't a clue about anything other than that he knows how to spell nepotism:
The Don't Confuse Me With Facts Award
"It doesn't bother me as much now as it did in the beginning," Jeff said. "I just try to block it all out."
Jeff Bowden re fan criticism.
To All Loyal FSU fans:
The We Are Stupid For Putting Up With This Award
But critics point to their own numbers. Like the fact that from 1987 to 2000, Florida State averaged nearly 470 yards and 40 points per game, numbers that have slipped to 399 yards and 30 points in the Jeff Bowden era. The Mark Richt unit that led the nation in total offense in 2000 has failed to finish among the nation's top 25 in that same category since.
One stat speaks louder than any other: The school that had 14 consecutive 10-win seasons from 1987 to 2000 has had only one 10-win season since. Also, this is the fourth straight season that FSU will have lost at least four games in a season.
To Bobby Bowden again for another stupid comment:
So Why Haven't You Fixed It Award
If you have a flat tire, you've got to fix that flat tire," Bowden said. "Firing the driver isn't going to help you.
"We're smart enough to fix it. So let's fix it."
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