Brandon Warren Denied Appeal

It's finally over. A Florida State faculty panel convened to examine student-athlete Brandon Warren's appeal of a denial of his transfer request released its decision to the university on Monday.

The panel, made up of three members of the FSU faculty and chaired by Joe Beckham, delivered the following written decision. “It is the determination of the faculty panel that the information presented by Brandon Warren does not rise to the level of 'objective evidence that proves the student-athlete's extraordinary personal hardship' and is insufficient to support his appeal of the NCAA and FSU transfer policy. Panel members were unanimous in their conclusions that the appeal should be denied and the transfer rule should be enforced.”

I think this was the correct decision. Warren's actions in this matter were underhanded and not worthy of being granted an appeal.

Henderson and Davis Drafted Late

Mario Henderson-Oakland Raiders, Third Round, Selection #91

Chris Davis- Tennessee Titans,Fourth Round, Selection # 128

ACC Has Top Draft Picks In NFL Draft

Georgia Tech wide receiver Calvin Johnson was selected by the Detroit Lions as the second overall pick in the 2007 National Football League draft, becoming the highest selection in Yellow Jacket history.

Johnson is the ninth first-round pick in Georgia Tech history but the first since linebacker Keith Brooking was selected with the 12th pick by the Atlanta Falcons in 1998. Before Johnson, the highest selection from Tech was running back Eddie Prokop, who was taken fourth by the Boston Patriots in 1945.

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Boston College Head Football Coach Jeff Jagodzinski has named Jack Bicknell Jr. Assistant Head Coach/Offensive Line Coach. Bicknell, a three-year letterwinner on the BC offensive line and the starting center during Doug Flutie's Heisman Trophy year in 1984, comes to BC from Texas Tech University, where he was offensive line coach.

"This is an exciting addition to our football program," Jagodzinski says. "The Bicknell family has played a major role in the history of Boston College football. Not only is Jack a BC man, he brings a wealth of experience to this position. This is a tremendous fit for our staff."
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The University of Miami had three players selected in the first round of today's NFL draft, extending the school record streak to 13 consecutive years in which a Hurricanes player has been chosen in the first round.

Safety Brandon Meriweather was the first drafted, being selected with the 24th choice by the New England Patriots. Linebacker Jon Beason was drafted one pick later by the Carolina Panthers. And tight end Greg Olsen was drafted with the 31st selection.

Timmons, Davis, and Booker Draft Selections

Lawrence Timmons- Pittsburgh Steelers, First Round, Selection #15

Buster Davis- Arizona Cardinals, Third Round, Selection #69

Lorenzo Booker- Miami Dolphins, Third Round, Selection #71

Q&A: Antone Smith

Q: What are your plans this summer?

A: I am going to go home for three or four days. I am going to run and lift down in Pahokee. I am going to work on running routes and catching balls with some of my friends from Wake Forest who are going to be down there. Anquan (Boldin) should be down there too so we will do a little bit of working out.

Q: What was the biggest surprise for you this spring?

A: The biggest surprise has to be the speed of the linemen right now. Those guys are doing a really good job getting up field to the second level. Our receivers are also doing a great job blocking down field and catching the ball. Those have to be the two biggest areas.

Q: How was this spring been different compared to previous springs?

A: The biggest difference is the tempo. The tempo of everything right now is very high compared to the previous two springs I have been here. This spring was very tiring. The tempo has never been as high as it was this past spring. I think the coaching change has been a big improvement for us.

Q: The fans are very excited about what you did this spring but where do you feel you are going into the summer?

A: I am definitely not where I should be. For the fans, I am appreciative that the felt I had a good spring but me personally, I know I am not where I should be. There are a lot of things I have to improve on as a player and as a person. I want to improve in both of those areas. Hopefully I will be a better player when we open the season at Clemson.

Q: Was there anything that was hard for you to pick-up in the new offense?

A: Having played this game all my life, I think I have a good grasp on what is being asked of me. I did want to learn this offense from the back to the front. I did that this spring. It wasn't a big deal for me. I wanted to make sure I knew the blocking schemes and I think I did a pretty good job with that.

Q: How excited do you get when you hear coach Fisher say that you will be his featured back?

A: I am very excited. That is what I came here for - to be `that' guy and I am going to finally get a chance to do it. I am looking forward to it.

Q: What are your expectations for this offense come the fall?

A: I know we are going to be a strong unit. The tempo is different, everybody is approaching everything different and the offensive players are focused. Our linemen are leaner, stronger and have lost a lot of weight. They aren't going to get tired late in games and they are going to be more dependable for four quarters. Everybody is just excited about this coaching staff. It is a new direction. We lost some great coaches this off-season but it was time for a change and I think everyone is happy about it.

Q: Do you set personal goals?

A: I am the type of person that really doesn't set personal goals. You never know what can happen in this game. Any play can be your last. I just go out with the mindset that I am going to do my job and play hard. I want to give it everything I have on every play.

Reed Ready To Compete

Remember Bert Reed? He is the Panama City football player who had originally commited to the Gators but later commited to the Noles. The Panama City-Bay Senior High standout is a popular prospect with Seminole fans due to his 4.4-forty speed and ability to play multiple positions at Florida State. And it doesn't hurt that he switched from the Gators.

The soon-to-be Seminole freshman recently watched his future team from the sidelines of the spring game. It was the first time that the 6-foot and 165-pounder had witnessed any organized FSU football inside Doak Campbell Stadium and his excitement was evident.

"I am really looking forward to this opportunity I have," Reed said. "Coach tells me that there are a lot of spots (on the depth chart) open. That makes me happy. I just want the opportunity to show everyone what I can do and that I am happy to be a Seminole."

The openings that Reed is referring to are at the wide receiver spot. Are you listening Greg Carr?

Brandon Warren Appeal Set For Friday

Myron Rolle, who enrolled at FSU in January 2006, finishes the spring semester this week with 64 hours. He plans to take 18 hours this summer - half in London and the other nine in Tallahassee.

While he is still in London,FSU's volunteer offseason program will be under way. But Rolle said FSU strength coach Jon Jost has given him a workout to follow, and he has made contact with former FSU track star Garrett Johnson, now a Rhodes scholar studying in London, and with the U.K. Olympic Committee about using their facilities.

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Brandon Warren will make his appeal on Friday of a decision by FSU to deny the tight end his release. FSU athletic department policy allows an appeal process before a commitment of non-athletic department personnel headed by FSU's NCAA faculty representative, Joe Beckham. The appeal will be conducted through a teleconference.

Vote In New Poll

New poll:"Of all the new coaches, who do you think will have the greatest impact on the 2007 football team?"

"It Was The Toughest Thing I've Ever Gone Through"

"It was the toughest thing I've ever gone through. I would get up every day, and when I was sitting in those meeting rooms, I'd always think to myself that, 'One day I'm going to be driving down the coast, with all the trees and the water, and I'm going to look back and remember this. But today is not that day, because I'm sitting in this meeting room. But that day is going to come."
Lorenzo Booker commenting on how he was misused offensively at FSU

FSU Has Fast Start To 2008 Recruiting

FSU is doing something that is totally out of character for the football program. It is getting verbal committments from high school recruits for 2008. This is the program that has been known to have last minute signings right up to signing day.

As of today, the football program has already received seven verbal commitments for 2008. Compare this to Florida with one.

Jermaine Thomas, a First Coast running back touted for his speed on Monday night became the seventh high school junior to commit to FSU for the 2008 recruiting class, and the first on offense.

The group includes three members of the Scout.com's top 100 national list, but also potentially meets future needs at positions that include safety and linebacker.

FSU's commitments, six of which came following the spring game, are: Thomas; LB Nigel Bradham, Wakulla; S C.J. Holton, Wakulla; LB Nigel Carr, Jacksonville First Coast High; S Nick Moody, Philadelphia (Pa.) Roman Catholic; LB Vincent Williams, Davenport The Ridge Community High; and DL Anthony Hill, Pensacola High.

The point should be made that verbal commitments are not binding.

Miami Safety Goes Down

UM safety Anthony Reddick sustained a knee injury late last week, apparently while playing basketball, two people close to the situation confirmed Sunday night.
One person was told it was a tear to the anterior cruciate ligament of his left knee, which could sideline him for the 2007 season. The other person was unsure of the severity.

All indications point tohim being done for 2007 season. It is believed Reddick has not had surgery.

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Citing a difference in philosophies in the direction of the program, Boston College offensive line coach Jim Turner resigned Monday to pursue other career opportunities.

Turner, a 1988 Boston College graduate and captain of the 1987 team, joined the BC coaching staff in January after two seasons as offensive line coach and one season as associate head coach at the University of Delaware. Turner also has coached at Northeastern, Louisiana Tech, Harvard, and Temple.

Sun Sports To Air Amato Special

This week Sun Sports' In My Own Words Presented by AT&T sat down with Florida State executive head coach and linebackers coach Chuck Amato. Amato returns to FSU after seven seasons at his alma mater, North Carolina State. A longtime assistant to Bobby Bowden, Amato helped guide the Seminoles to truly dominant heights during the '80s and '90s, before taking on the challenge of leading NC State's program. One of the most colorful characters in coaching, Amato joined host Tom Block in Tallahassee to recount his longstanding relationship with Bowden, his tenure in Raleigh, and what the future holds for FSU football.

Amato opens up to Sun Sports about the rise and fall of N.C. State, Coach Bowden - then and now.. his coaching values, personality and how he's building relationships with these new players. He even shares comments on his favorite meal is stating "anything with red sauce." In My Own Words: Chuck Amato premieres on Sun Sports Monday, April 23 at 7pm and again at 10pm with multiple encores throughout the month

Rabid Bama Fans Turn Out To See Saban Ball

Saturday was A-Day for the University of Alabama, the annual spring game and Saban's long-awaited public appearance as coach of the Crimson Tide. More than 92,138 fans showed up at Bryant-Denny Stadium to watch the White team win 20-13 over the Crimson. Wonder if those over 92,000 Bama fans would turn out to vote?

FSU plays Alabama at Jacksonville on Sept. 29.

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When Colorado spring football practices ended last week, it was clear the team had made the biggest step forward on the offensive side of the ball in the passing game with two new quarterbacks.

But what went largely unnoticed over 14 practices and the spring game was the improvement the team appears to have made in most areas in the kicking game. No player serves as a better example of that improvement than long-time return man Stephone Robinson.

FSU plays Colorado at Colorado on Sept. 15.
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Two Florida football players are recovering after shoulder surgery.Offensive lineman Eddie Haupt had surgery to repair ligament damage in his left shoulder, while defensive end Lawrence Marsh's surgery was to repair cartilage damage in his right shoulder.

Haupt is expected to take four months to rehabilitate. Marsh is expected to be fully recovered in three to four weeks, according to Dr. Pete Indelicato, who performed the surgeries.

FSU plays Florida at Florida on Nov. 24.

"Carr" Crash

Conspicious by his absence was Greg Carr from the starting lineup announced by Bobby Bowden at the start of his golf tour. The 6'6" receiver is not listed on the first team and many are voicing concerns.

It is thought by those who follow the game that Carr does not block or run routes that are needed by a receiver at FSU. Apparently he has not improved during spring practice. It is amazing that a talent such as Carr is not making the needed improvements to become a premier receiver.

"As Wide As The Grand Canyon"

"Due to UF losing 4 early off their defense and FSU only 1 it is close on defense. On offense it is as wide as the Grand Canyon in favor of UF. Shocking to see both teams from field level on back to back Saturdays."
Sun Sports college football analyst Terry Norvelle commenting on overall talent gap between FSU and UF

The Comeback "Kid"

As Bobby Bowden begins his 32nd golf tour of Seminole Clubs, many are saying that they see a rejuvenated Bobby Bowden.Bowden seems fresh and eager to mount a comeback to what many were dismal years for the past five. He has almost completely revamped his coaching staff and added some new positions to keep up with the times.
A prominent booster recently commented on Bobby Bowden by saying his energy level was high. He also heard the excitement in his voice. According to him, it was like he "was reborn."

Even Dave Hart who is slow to react to anything says about Bowden,“I see it in his body language, I see it in his eyes and conversation and actions. There’s no question he’s rejuvenated."

"I Am The Boss"

“I put a sign on my tower – 'I am the boss'. Then Ann came out and got that thing… and put it back in the kitchen.”
Bobby Bowden speaking to Pensacola Seminole Club on his golf tour

2007 Bobby Bowden Golf Tour Dates

April 23 ORANGE PARK
Contact: Brian Jones,
(904) 874-4499
Kileamo1@aol.com

April 24 LAKE CITY
Contact: Derril Cribbs,
c (386) 623-6042
cribbs@isgroup.net

April 27 POLK COUNTY
Contact: Roger Philips,
(863) 604-1329
pbf6363@aol.com

April 28 DAYTONA BEACH
Contact: Bill Grigat,
(386) 615-7526
Lori@billgrigat.com
Contact: Lori Ryan,
(386) 615-7525

April 30 ATLANTA
Contact: Sandy Meier,
c (404) 660-6588
lynn_meier@hotmail.com

May 3 MIAMI
The Doral Country Club
Contact: Frank Moreno, President
Seminole Club of Greater Miami, Inc.
c (305) 392-4658 or flmoreno77@yahoo.com
For more info: MiamiNoles.com
Register Online for the Event!!
Also scheduled to participate: Lee Corso, Rick Trickett & Chuck Amato.

May 4 TAMPA
Contact: Kenny Zoodsma,
(813) 997-4186
www.tampanoles.com
kennyzoodsma@yahoo.com
Golf Registration Form
Banquet Registration Form

May 5 ORLANDO
Contact: Andy Chmelir,
c (407) 327-8899
ajchmelir@cs.com

May 7 JACKSONVILLE
Contact: Max Zahn,
c 904-716-5637 or h 904-363-1234
fsumax@bellsouth.net
Golf Registration Form
Banquet Registration Form

May 8 OCALA
Contact: Sally Smith,
(352) 390-3472
marioncountyseminoles@hotmail.com
Golf Registration Form
Sponsorship Form

May 10 FT. PIERCE
Contact: Gary Dundas,
w (772) 461-2310
FSUfriends@aol.com

May 11 FT. LAUDERDALE
Contact: Michael Hagerty,
w (954) 270-7466
michael_hagerty@ml.com

May 12 PALM BEACH
Contact: Scott Osteen,
w (772) 473-9542
scoost@adelphia.net

May 17 BRADENTON-SARASOTA
Contact: MariAnne Barnebey,
(941)749-0810
barnebey@verizon.net

May 18 PINELLAS COUNTY
Contact: Jim Hall,
c (727)421-8177or w (727)545-0400 x7285
Jhall@Transitions.com
Contact: Marshel O'Shields
, c (727)410-1632 or w (727) 812-4650 x218
MSOSHIELDS@aol.com

May 19 FT. MYERS
Contact: Bob Votaw, w (239) 481-0230
mincmasonry@yahoo.com

Bowden Announces Lineup

At the start of his annual golf tour to meet with local Seminole Boosters, Bobby Bowden announced his first team lineup except for QB. That is still a race between Weatherford and Lee.

Offense: WR De'Cody Fagg, WR Richard Goodman, TE Charlie Graham, LT Daron Rose, LG Jacky Claude, C Ryan McMahon, RG David Overmeyer, RT Shannon Boatman/Caz Piurowski, TB Antone Smith, FB Sederick Holloway, QB Drew Weatherford or Xavier Lee.

Defense: DE Neefy Moffett, DE Alex Boston, DD Letroy Guion, NG Andre Fluellen, SLB Marcus Ball, MLB Derek Nicholson, WLB Geno Hayes, CB Tony Carter, CB Jamie Robinson, S Roger Williams, Rover Myron Rolle, P Graham Gano, K Gary Cismesia or Gano.

Bobby And Text Messaging

Q&A: Bobby Bowden On Spring Practice

Bobby Bowden spoke to the media today as a wrap up to Spring Practice:

Well we finished spring training last Saturday and had a good spring. Of course a lot of that is built around staying healthy. I think nothing hurts us worse than trying to get out there and have spring training than to lose a couple of kids for the year or they miss all of the spring training and cannot get better. So in that regards, I thought we did have a good spring training. We should be an improved football team next year. This is the first time in 31 years where I have practically replaced our staff which I hated to do but I did. We think we have a real good staff now. The kids seemed to respond to them pretty good and bought into them pretty good. We are all excited now. Now if we can just win some darn games."

Q: With all the changes that you made on the offensive side of the ball from a staffing standpoint what are the biggest changes that Jimbo Fisher and Rick Trickett have made in regards to turning that unit around?

Bobby Bowden: I think they have both come in and answered a challenge real well. Trickett gives us an offensive line coach about as good as anybody in the country. I think Jimbo gives you the same thing as a quarterbacks coach and an offensive coordinator. So now what has changed in regards to football, not much, all plays are about the same but the coaches do have a different style. I like what I saw. I let Jimbo have it all the way and I like what he did. He spread the ball all over the field instead of just maybe one area. I think we have improved our running game. It looks like it this spring. I hope we are an improved football team.

Q: Everything I have heard on Rick Trickett is that he is like a Marine drill sergeant, is that what you thought your offensive line needed in terms of toughening those guys up?

Bobby Bowden: Well I think not only that but our whole team needed it. We have seemed like we have gotten softer. We needed to get that element back and I don't know of anybody that brings it better than he does.

Q: How many text messages have you sent in your career to recruits and what you think of the NCAA's impending ban on that?

Bobby Bowden: Well, you know text messages is something out of my range - age wise -but our coaches have all been involved in it. I don't mind if they cut it out. I am surprised it has gone as far as it has. But it is like everything else, if everybody is doing it you better do it. So if they cut it out, it will be relative, we will all have the same opportunity still. I don't know if it is a good idea. We can't call them, we can't talk to them, and we can't see them but yet you can text them. That is just about the same so whatever they do there is fine with me.

Q: Do you think the NCAA does a decent job of keeping up with technology in terms of monitoring these kinds of things or is it constantly a game where this stuff will always change and there is always going to be something new?

Bobby Bowden: Well you know as old as the history of football there has always been somebody that moves a step ahead. If you cut this out, they will find another way to do it. I am sure if they cut out the text messages they will, us coaches, will come out with some other kind of messenger system. Again, if they do cut it out that is a start.

Q: Tommy Bowden has always said that he hasn't appointed a special teams coach largely because you never had but now you have gone ahead and done it. Why the change in that regards and what is the advantage for a staff to have a special teams coordinator?

Bobby Bowden: Well that is a good question. I will honest with you there is not much difference in it. You cannot have one guy coaching everything. You can have one guy in charge of everything but you still have to use all of your coaches to coach it. I have always and I guess Tommy does the same thing, I assign this coach the job of handling punts, this coach you handle kick-offs, this coach you handle extra points, and we have done it that way. Now why did I change? Because one of my coaches asked if he could take on that responsibility, Jody Allen said he would like to be special teams coach and so that is good so we put him in charge of it but still he has to use Mickey for punt block, Chuck for kick-offs, so-and-so for punts, but at least he will oversee it and probably do more breaking down of film of what we are doing right and what we are doing wrong. It really isn't a whole lot of difference.

Q: Do you think you will see an improvement on special teams though over time due to the move?

Bobby Bowden: It looked about the same. We went through it this spring for the first time and it looked about the same – we kept missing field goals and stuff like that. I do like it under one guy because you can talk to him about any deficiencies that you have and you can expect him to get with the coaches and make those corrections.

Q: What has it been like to have Chuck Amato back this spring after he had beaten you a few times?

Bobby Bowden: He beat us four dangum times. If you can't beat him, hire him. I just feel lucky to get him but kind of unlucky for him because he lost his job at North Carolina State. After working with us for 18 years, working with Mickey Andrews for 18 years, he knows what to expect. You know he is one of the sharpest coaches I have ever been around and so I am glad to get him back on our team.

Q: In mentioning Trickett and Fisher, what is it about guys with ties to West Virginia being as it seems that state has been a real cradle for coaches?

Bobby Bowden: Isn't that amazing. John Lilly, our tight ends coach and head recruiter is also from Beckley, West Virginia. I have seen Jimbo ever since he was a player. He played for my son Terry and I used to watch film on him. He then started coaching for Terry and went to Auburn coaching with Terry and he kept up with us a lot. He patterned a lot of stuff after what we were doing and so I have been able to watch his progress. Then he goes to LSU and is very successful there. I felt like that when we made our changes this year that this is my last shot. I am 77 and I doubt I can go past 87 so I had to hire people who could get the job done. That doesn't mean we are just going to walk in and start winning games but I know this, we will be heading in the right direction. Having Jimbo and Trickett, and Trickett used to coach for Terry too at Auburn so I have kept up with him through the years. In fact, this was the third time where I had an opening where he and I have talked about him coming to Florida State but it has always been where I couldn't afford him. This year thanks to our administration I was able to pay whatever it took to get the best and that is what we think we have done.

Q: Just wondering how much the landscape of college football in the state of Florida has changed with UCF and USF moving into the D-I level and if there is still enough talent in the state for all of the big three to compete for a BCS bid and a National Championship in the same year or does one have to go down for another one to go up?

Bobby Bowden: Well I think there is still enough material to go around. Maybe when it was the big three, Miami, Florida State, and Florida, you would be more fortunate but I think we are probably still able to get the top kid more because if you come to Florida State, Florida, or Miami you have got a chance to play for a National Championship and things like that. So now is there enough kids to go around, well yeah because the state just keeps growing. They figure that the population of the state will double in another 10 or 15 years so there will always be people coming in here and helping us to furnish these athletes for these programs. I am glad to see the University of South Florida and Central Florida and our FAMU's, Bethune's come up in football as well as those schools down in Miami but if you can dominate the state of Florida you are going to win. If anybody would be lucky enough to get the top 15 out of the state they are going to win. That is kind of hard to do but that is still the key to it. There are still a lot of kids.

Can't Contact U

Looks as if text messages are about to become a thing of the past when it comes to recruiting.

The NCAA's Division I Management Council voted on Tuesday to eliminate the use of text messaging in college recruiting. The committee opted for an outright ban, which was first proposed by the Ivy League, over another proposal that would merely to limit text and instant messaging to certain days of the week and particular hours. If approved by school presidents and chancellors on the Division I Board of Directors next week, the measure will take effect Aug. 1.

Alot of college recruiters are not happy with this since they rely on their BlackBerrys, Sidekicks, Treos, e-mails and instant messages to keep up with prospects. Division I Student-Athlete Advisory Council chairwoman Anna Chappell said these forms of communication have become too costly, too intrusive in a prospect's life and the line between coach and prospect has become blurred.

Well, at least Bobby won't be upset.

"I'm Going To Mess Up Their Morning"

"Well, now we're meeting at 5:30 in the morning. If it doesn't pick up and [they don't] do it the way we want to, we may be at 4:00 before the damn week is over with. We're going to do it on the damn practice field, when it's time to do it. If they're going to mess up my afternoon, I'm going to mess up their morning."
Rick Trickett in an interview regarding his regimen for his offensive line during spring practice

Spring Practice Around The ACC

The casualness with which Wake Forest approaches spring football is striking. Practices start at varying times, if at all. For the second straight season the Deacons didn't use all their 15 days allotted by the NCAA.

Some players are overweight. The coaches say they won't worry about the extra baggage until preseason practices begin in August.

Coach Jim Grobe is rarely on hand when practices do begin. He'll emerge from his office at some point, shake hands and exchange pleasantries with those fans who have dropped by and entertain any questions the media might have.(Thanks to Dan Collins, Winston-Salem Journal for info.)

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Judging by Saturday's spring game at Kenan Stadium, the Tar Heels have solidified at least one thing over the past month of workouts: trust.

"I think they've started to see that if they do what we ask them to do, they can win," said UNC coach Butch Davis, who was hired in November to resurrect a program that hasn't posted a winning season since 2001. "... Their enthusiasm and their passion and their willingness to work has been a godsend. They have been as eager as any football team as I have been around to change what's happened in the past."(Thanks to Robbi Pickeral, News & Observer for info.)
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It’s hard to judge a book by its cover, and by looking at what took place in Saturday’s Annual Spring Game in Death Valley, the cover on Clemson’s linebacking corps doesn’t look bad, but it isn’t all that good.

Just like the Tigers’ two previous stadium scrimmages, no linebacker seemed to standout. There doesn’t seem to be that Jeff Davis, Anthony Simmons, Keith Adams or Leroy Hill type middle linebacker that has ball hawked across the surface of Memorial Stadium, seeking out and destroying anyone or anything in his way.(Thanks to Will Vandervort, Columbia State for info.)
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It was a neat ending to N.C. State's spring game, the way quarterback Daniel Evans marshalled the Red team downfield and to a 35-31 comeback win over the White on Saturday at Carter-Finley Stadium.

The clincher came when he hit receiver Darrell Blackman on an 8-yard touchdown pass, culminating a clock-managed 65-yard drive. Moments earlier, that duo had combined for a 50-yard touchdown

"It was a good ending,'' said first-year Pack head coach Tom O'Brien, who observed from both sidelines. "If we compete the way we competed at the end, we're going to win some football games." (Thanks to A.J. Carr, News & Observer for info.)

Spring Practice Awards

Spring Awards

Most Valuable Offense Antone Smith
Most Valuable Defense Andre Fluellen
Hinesman (Most Dominant) Andre Fluellen
Matt Schmauch Academic Award Jacky Claude

OFFENSE AWARDS Most Improved Most Dependable
Quarterback Christian Ponder/Weatherford/Lee
Receiver Damon McDaniel/ De'Cody Fagg
Offensive Line Tyler Graves/ Ryan McMahon
Running Back Marcus Sims/ Jamaal Edwards
Tight End Jerome Walters/ Sean Compton

DEFENSE AWARDS Most Improved Most Dependable
Defensive End Neefy Moffett/ Eli Charles
Defensive Tackle Budd Thacker/ Andre Fluellen
Linebacker Anthony Kelly/ Dekoda Watson
Defensive Back Jamie Robinson/ Tony Carter

GENERAL AWARDS Offense Defense
King of 3-on-3 Damon McDaniel/ Andre Fluellen
Top Non-Scholarship Player Sean Compton/ Lampkin/Lawson
Most Outstanding Player Antone Smith/ Tony Carter
Big Otis Award Preston Parker/ Letroy Guion
Second Effort Award Richard Goodman/ Budd Thacker
Top Newcomer Award Ryan McMahon/ Dekoda Watson
Big Hitter Award De'Cody Fagg/ Dekoda Watson
Iron Nole Award Jamaal Edwards/ Todd Verdell
Most Committed To
Physical Development Joslin Shaw/ Letroy Guion

"It's Not Going To Be Tolerated"

“(The offense) did not compete at the level which we need to compete at, and it's not going to be tolerated. We did some good things, but we are nowhere in the competition level where we need to go. We hadn't had five turnovers in a scrimmage yet. That's ridiculous. Some of them are the quarterback's fault and some aren't."
Jimbo Fisher regarding the offense in the Garnet and Gold game

Tebow Is The Man And Saban All Wet

Gator QB Tim Tebow completed 17 of 27 passes for 216 yards and three touchdowns, ran eight times for 41 yards and led the Blue team to a 27-21 victory over Orange in Florida's spring game Saturday.

Tebow showed leadership, poise and plenty of passing skills - giving the defending national champions hope as they try to rebuild following the loss of 15 starters.

"He's ready to go," coach Urban Meyer said. "Tim Tebow is ready to go play quarterback at Florida."

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The idea was for the Alabama football team to be able to focus on its responsibilities, regardless of the conditions.

With that in mind, coach Nick Saban held his team's second scrimmage of the spring Saturday in heavy rain, while also spending a significant portion of it on various, game-like situations.

"I personally think we should make it our advantage, whatever the circumstances are," Saban said. "If it's raining outside and we're playing on a bad field, that should be to our advantage. That's the mindset. Hopefully we made some progress in that area."
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The UAB football team wrapped up its 2007 spring drills Saturday, and while Neil Callaway and the fans in attendance saw some good things on the Blazers' practice field, the head coach saw some areas that caused him concern.

"It was kind of a sloppy performance on both sides," said Callaway. "Offensively, we had way too many turnovers, a few picks and a couple fumbles. Defensively, we had way too many big plays given up. If we're going to win ballgames, we've got to eliminate those things. So, I was really disappointed in those two areas."

Several Injuries In Spring Game As Dunn Looks On

Former players including Ernie Sims, Bryant McFadden, Warrick Dunn, Marcello Church, Mario Henderson and William Floyd were at the Garnet and Gold game.

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Players from the 2007 class watched the spring game including A.J. Ganguzza, Rodney Hudson, Brandon Paul, Brian Coulter, Bert Reed, Jonathan Hannah and Cameron Wade.
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John Frady sprained his left knee and Dumaka Atkins sprained his left ankle in the game.
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The FSU Sports Information office estimated the crowd for the Garnet and Gold game at 25,000.

Garnet and Gold Game Highlights- Part 4

Sacks: Everette Brown 2 sacks for 10 yards, Neefy Moffett 1 sack for 8 yards, Dekoda Watson 1 sack for 6 yards

TFLs: Everette Brown 3; Neefy Moffett 1.5; Toddrick Verdell 1.5; Alex Boston, Dekoda Watson, & Jeremy Franklin 1 each; Budd Thacker & Eli Charles .5 each

PBUs: Roosevelt Lawson 2; Roger Williams, Everette Brown, Patrick Robinson, Ochuko Jenije, Jamie Robinson, & Darius McClure 1 each

Forced Fumble: J.R. Bryant

Interceptions: Michael Ray Garvin, Patrick Robinson, Dekoda Watson, Myron Rolle
Fumble Recovery: Alex Boston

Field Goals
Graham Gano 0-2
Gary Cismesia 1-2
(All FGs were from 46 yards)

Extra Points
Graham Gano 2-2
Gary Cismesia 1-2

Andre Fluellen was named the Most Valuable Player on Defense for spring practice.

Garnet and Gold Game Highlights- Part 3

"I thought we culminated a good spring," said FSU Head Coach Bobby Bowden. "I thought we had a good spring. I saw a whole lot of improvement out of a lot of boys and that's what you want. I think that we can take the 14 days of practice that we've had, plus this game today and then decide, going into the fall, how to line them up. That's what we'll try to do."

Marcus Sims and Antone Smith led the Seminole ground attack as each rushed for close to 40 yards. Overall, the Gold team gained 145 yards on 55 rushes, including yards produced in goal line. Richard Goodman had the biggest day catching the ball as he hauled in two passes for 88 yards including a 65-yard TD from Weatherford. De'Cody Fagg led all receivers with five catches. Fagg, Damon McDaniel, Goodman and Erik Stapleton all caught TD passes and six receivers caught balls for at least 40 yards.

"I'm not totally disgusted I mean we made some good things happen," said first-year offensive coordinator Jimbo Fisher. "But the consistency level is ridiculous. If you're consistent and it's not a play, then throw it away. At least if you're gonna get beat, get run over slowly, don't whiff a guy. Or if you're in the back, hold on to the ball and go where you're supposed to go."

The Seminole defense had a strong day as well recording five sacks, 11 pass break-ups and the four interceptions, including one for a TD by Michael Ray Garvin. Dekoda Watson, Patrick Robinson and Myron Rolle all picked off passes as well. Everette Brown continued his brilliant spring leading the Garnet team with two sacks.

"Everyday that we come out to play we look at it as a big day," said Brown. "I try to keep a motto that everyday is gameday because you never know when your last day is going to be. I try to come out and go hard everyday, every play. Especially with me missing practice (due to an injury) it made me that much hungrier to get back out at practice. I think I took the spring pretty good and I'll work hard during the summer and get ready for two-a-days."

"I know there's a million things when you look at the film that they need to improve on probably the biggest thing is errors, lining up the wrong way or using the wrong technique," said Bowden talking about the play of his defense. "I think most of the negatives come from penalties, busted assignments, busted alignment, missed tackles and things like that and that's what you've got to get better at."

The scrimmage started with Weatherford playing with the first team and the offense was picked off failing to score in their first eight plays. Lee was unable to produce any points in his eight plays either. When the first team came back out Weatherford connected with Goodman for the long TD pass on the first play. The ensuing extra point was blocked by Dekoda Watson. When Lee returned to the field his first throw in his second series was picked by Garvin and taken back 42 yards for a defensive TD.

"Until you watch the film, some of their mistakes are things they did do or didn't do until I see what happened on the film it's premature,"said Fisher when asked about the quarterback play. "But the biggest thing is I'll make those judgments about where they are at, each individual player, once we look at the film. But what I'm talking about is the ability we came in with,the enthusiasm and competitiveness, we go up and down. We've got to see it every play and that is what I'm disappointed in."

Both the first and second team then each had a chance from the 50 yard line. Weatherford and the ones went three and out but then moved the ball on the next series thanks in large part to a 26-yard scramble buy Weatherford. The first team offense was unable to punch it in though. Lee then came out and the twos also struggled moving the ball against the Garnet team which recorded a Neefy Moffett sack and a fumble recovery by Alex Boston.

When the scrimmage moved into the 1:30 offense the ones moved the ball down the field. The drive was highlighted by a great sideline catch by Fagg and a 17-yard pass play to Smith. The first team offense was stymied once again by the defense though as Weatherford's pass into the endzone was picked off by Patrick Robinson. Lee and the second team offense clinched the win for the Gold team in their 1:30 segment. The key play was on a fourth-and-one when Jamaal Edwards gained three yards to save the offense from a three and out. Lee then hit walk-on receiver Todd St. Louis for back-to-back gains of 28 and 19 yards before finishing the scoring drive with a 14-yard TD to McDaniel.

"I think I made a couple of mistakes in there but I think as a team we did pretty well," said Lee. "There were a couple decisions I could have made a little better in there, but as a team I think we did okay. We have a long way to go."

After the halftime break, Lee moved up to play with the first team. Although the second half of the scrimmage was not scored, the offense started to produce some bigger plays versus the defense. Ponder started the second half off by leading the third team to a TD drive from the 50 that culminated with his strike to Stapleton for a four-yard touchdown. The Lee-led first team was unable to produce points in their drive from the 50 although Smith did help their cause with a nice 16-yard run. Weatherford then got his first opportunity to lead the second team and he was able to get the Gold team in the endzone. He hit Rod Owens for 12 yards and then Greg Carr for 16. Marcus Sims then ripped off the biggest run of the day on a 21-yard gain to the three, which was helped in large part by the blocking of Owens downfield near the goal line. Sims then capped off the drive with a three-yard TD run.

The remainder of the scrimmage was spent working on situational plays until the practice concluded with goal line drills. Of the eight goal line plays, the offense scored five times. Lee ran in a TD on the first play and Edwards also scored with the first team on a TD run. Sims then took over as he has done all spring near the endzone as he scored three times in four plays with the second team. The biggest plays turned in at the goal line by the defense came from Moffett who broke up a pass in the endzone and Jeremy Franklin who had the biggest hit stopping the second team offense from going a perfect four-for-four.

Garnet and Gold Game Highlights- Part 2

Garnet and Gold Offensive Leaders:

A crowd estimated at 15,000 watched the game as the following players led the offensive stats:

Receiving

Richard Goodman 2-88 yards TD
De'Cody Fagg 5-48 yards TD
Damon McDaniel 4-46 yards TD
Rod Owens 4-44 yards
Antone Smith 3-46 yards
Todd St. Louis 2-47 yards

Rushing

Marcus Sims 11-45 yards, 1 TD
Antone Smith 11-42 yards

Antone Smith was named the Most Valuable On Offense for spring practice.

Garnet and Gold Game Highlights- Part 1

On a hot but windy day, FSU fans gathered outside the stadium tailgating, chatting, and talking about the upcoming season. As I walked through the parking lot, I was met with the FSU fight song, Led Zeppelin's "Kashmir". and Credence.

Inside the stadium, the pregame saw a very animated Rick Trickett very involved with his offensive line and making points with slaps of his cap.

Once the Garnet and Gold game began, the offense slightly edged the defense 20-25.Lee,Weatherford and Christian Ponder, combined to go 27 of 51 for 386 yards with four TD's and four interceptions. Weatherford was 13-23 for 219 yards with a TD and two picks, Lee went 13-26 for 163 yards with two TD's and two interceptions and Ponder was 1-2 for four yards and a TD.

"I thought they did okay," said Bowden of his quarterbacks. "They made some mistakes but I thought they did some good things."

"Makes It More Conducive To Being Efficient"

"But if you look at the LSUs and other universities that have indoor facilities, it just makes it more conducive to being efficient at times when it's extremely cold outside or there might be thunderstorms.”
Running backs coach Dexter Carter pushing for an indoor practice facility

I'm Drinking Water

Everything You Need To Know About The Garnet and Gold Game

* Parking will be available on a first come, first serve basis.

* Gates will open at 1:00 p.m. and fans can enter the stadium through gates B, C, D, F and X (Seminole Sportshop).

* The Great Hall in University Center D will be open to fans from 8:00 – 12:30 p.m.

* Fans are encouraged to sit on the west side of the stadium.

* Concession stands will only be open on the west side of the stadium. Most of the concession stands on the lower level will be open and one concession stand on the second level will be open.

* Handicap seating will be available in the south endzone and on the west side in section 39.

* Coolers and umbrellas will not be allowed in the stadium.

* Seminole Village on Langford Green will be open at 12:00 p.m. There will be inflatable games set up for kids and adults along with FSU football posters and giveaways.

* Following the game, fans will be able to walk over to Dick Howser Stadium and watch the nationally ranked FSU baseball team take on Virginia Tech. First pitch is scheduled for 4:30 p.m.

QB Race Seems Dead Even

It seems that the QB race is dead even. Jimbo Fisher said after practice on Wednesday that Weatherford and Lee remained neck-and-neck for the No. 1 quarterback job.

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Receiver Rod Owens is showing a lot of promise in spring practice. The sophomore from Jacksonville sat out all of last season recovering from a knee injury but is now showing signs this spring that he is fully healthy.
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Gary Cismesia continues to have good days and bad. On Wednesday, he had a good day. He made 2 of 3 field-goal attempts with his longest being 27 yards. But Graham Gano, 2 of 4, made one of 42 yards despite a low snap.
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The spring game begins at 2 p.m. on Saturday. The format will pit the defense versus the offense with a point system that awards the defense for turnovers,etc .

"They Are Going To Buy Into It"

“They are going to buy into it or they are not going to play. If they don't, we'll just play the guys who do buy into it.”
Offensive lines coach Rick Trickett regarding players buying into the new scheme

Spring Game Festivities

For those of you that will be attending the Spring Game on Saturday, a local Seminole club will be serving food before the game. After the spring game, the FSU baseball team will be hosting Virginia Tech in a weekend series.

When: April 14th (before the spring game)
Time: 11 AM until kickoff
Location: Corner of Pensacola and Stadium Drive - see above map
Who's invited: All Seminole fans are welcome.
Food: Hamburgers, hot dogs & free bottled water.
Special Guest: Jenn and the Cowgirls.
More: Spring game rosters and schedule magnets!

Spring Practice: Day Fourteen

The Florida State football team took to the practice fields for the final time this spring on Wednesday. The team practiced 26 periods of which 13 were spent in Doak Campbell Stadium in the final half scrimmage of the season. The offense had one of its best scrimmages as Xavier Lee, Christian Ponder and Drew Weatherford combined to throw five TD passes. Rod Owens hauled in two of those strikes and Greg Carr had the longest reception of the day on a 51-yard TD pass.

PRACTICE & SCRIMMAGE HIGHLIGHTS:
• The practice began with the team working in position groups. The linebackers then worked versus the running backs on pass protection, before splitting up into run drills and 1-v-1.
• In 1-v-1 Ponder connected deep with Carr, Weatherford threw a nice out pass to Jordan Dobbie and Patrick Robinson picked off a pass.
• In pass skel Weatherford hooked up on a deep passes with Joslin Shaw and Richard Goodman. Lee hit Antone Smith on a deep pass after Smith ran a pattern out of the backfield and also hooked up on nice passes with Carr and Damon McDaniel. Ponder went long and hooked up with Dobbie while D'Vontrey Richardson also hit Dobbie deep. Defensively Michael Ray Garvin had a pass break-up and Darius McClure knocked De'Cody Fagg's helmet off on a big hit but he could not knock the ball free.
• While the receivers and DB's were working versus one another the offensive and defensive lines squared off on the far practice field.
• The final period on the practice field ended with 3-on-3 drills.
• In the scrimmage the offense had a good day led by the quarterbacks. Xavier Lee went 7-11 for 68 yards and a TD, Christian Ponder was 4-5 for 48 yards and a TD and Drew Weatherford was 7-11 for 167 yards and three TD's. None of the quarterbacks threw an interception.
• Antone Smith ran seven times for 44 yards to lead the backs. • Rod Owens led the receivers with two TD's while Carr, Shaw and Antwaun Green each caught a TD pass as well.
• Weatherford threw back-to-back TD passes of 50 and 51 yards to Owens and Carr respectively. He also hit Shaw on a 10-yard TD pass. Lee's TD pass went to Owens and covered eight yards while Ponder hooked up with Green on a 30-yard score.
• Smith turned in the two longest rushes of the day and both went for 16 yards.
• Defensively Everette Brown, Eli Charles and Recardo Wright all recorded sacks. Geno Hayes dumped Smith for a five-yard loss on the first play of the scrimmage and Andre Fluellen recorded a tackle right at the line on a 3rd and five play. Both Patrick and Jamie Robinson broke up passes.
• In the kicking game Gary Cismesia hit 2-of-3 attempts with the longest coming from 27 yards. Graham Gano went 2-of-4 but hit one from 42 yards on a low snap. His other make came from 35 yards.
• In goal line, Wright recorded a tackle for loss and the defense held the running game to no gain on three plays. Marcus Sims scored twice from in close, Lee ran one in and Weatherford hit Jonathon Person on a TD pass in the back of the end zone.

QUOTES

Head Coach Bobby Bowden

"They (the offense) had the better day today. Offensively we just executed better; didn't make as many mistakes as they had in the past. The biggest thing that I think our offense has got to work on is our third and one. I think the defense is stopping us too many times on third down and one. They had a touchdown on third and one today - fourth and one I think - but they had to throw a pass to do it. That's the only part where it looked like we need some work there. We have to get that next fall I guess because all your spring training is over except for the spring game."

(on Antone Smith's progress in the spring)
"Anton has done well. He's not a surprise - he is doing what we expect him to do. The bigger surprises are the guys behind him because Antone, you expect it of him. He has run well. We have blocked better for him and he has done good on getting some extra yards. The other backs are running good, too. That's good news, too."

(on Drew Weatherford connecting on deep passes)
"You like to see that. You need that. I think a couple of them were busted coverages where they just left somebody wide open down there. But, still you have to protect your quarterback and still, your quarterback has to hit them. We had some nice long throws for those touchdowns."

(how much has Drew Weatherford improved in the new system?)
"I'm sure they have gained. I'm sure they have gained on it. But No. 9 (Xavier Lee) has really come along. He had more room for improvement and he's probably made more improvement. I think light's are coming on for both of then (Weatherford and Lee) - (Christian) Ponder even did some good things."

(on the receivers catching passes)
"They caught much better today then they did the other day. Very few drops out there today."

(on Coach Rick Trickett's intensity)
"Usually it catches over to your players. They see that enthusiasm and they see that intensity and they know they're going to have to do it. It has a good effect. I think they've responded the best they could. Some have responded better than others. But they are trying to respond. It's probably harder on the older guys because you are having to change the things they were doing and do this whereas the younger guys, they don't have to change, because they never did it any other way.

Quarterback Drew Weatherford
"I feel really good; I feel really confident in the system obviously and in the guys we have around each other. We all have confidence in one another and we know that we have been working hard. We fell really excited about the spring game and we think we are going to have a lot of success. It was probably easier than I thought it was going be to pick up the offense because coach Fisher and his GA's do a great job - the GA's spend countless hours with us without coach Fisher to learn the actual offense. Adapting to the new coaching style, the tempo that they set and the intensity that they brought is definitely the biggest change - that was the hardest thing to adapt to. I think we have finally got it."

(on the competition for a starting job)
"They (the coaches) really haven't mentioned it very much at all (the quarterback competition). We just come out every day and try to compete. There is a long way before our first game and we are going to have probably wait until summer and somewhere in two-a-days before they make a decision. There's a lot of work to be done and there's a lot of improvement for our team to make before they even make that decision. I wouldn't be half the quarterback that I am if I didn't have it (the competition)."

Rover Myron Rolle
"The defense - we are going to be prepared to play (on Saturday). The offense is a very tricky offense - they play very hard, very aggressive and they play very tough. We have to match that intensity or even better it and just come out here and everybody do their assignments and I think we'll do okay. We have everybody coming back and I think we have done a pretty good job of trying to get our hands on more passes this year and be a little more physical. It's something we have improved upon but Tony Carter went down with an injury and that set us back a little bit. For the most part I think our unit has improved since the first day of spring. It's very important (to make big plays) because I think we can be tone setters and let the receivers know they can't run across the middle and catch the ball or just create turnovers and make the quarterbacks a little weary of throwing the ball deep. That's what I'm looking forward to doing on Saturday and I know the other DB's are as well. It's very important to make a statement out there in the secondary because we have a lot or opportunities to day that."

ACC Spring Games and ACC Announces ACC Championship Game

Atlantic Coast Conference Commissioner John Swofford announced Wednesday that the 2007 Dr Pepper ACC Football Championship Game, scheduled to be held at Jacksonville Municipal Stadium (formerly ALLTEL Stadium) in Jacksonville, Fla., on Saturday, December 1, will have a 1 pm (EST) kickoff and will be nationally televised by ESPN on ABC Sports.

"We are pleased to announce this year's ACC Football Championship Game will be televised nationally at 1 pm," said Swofford. "Our first two championship games featured four different conference teams, and as our 12 league programs prepare for the upcoming 2007 season we know a common goal for each is to be playing on December 1 in Jacksonville."

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The University of Miami held its annual spring game as the Orange team beat the White team 7-0 at the Orange Bowl on Saturday morning in front of about 7,000 fans.
Kyle Wright threw a 24-yard touchdown pass to Sam Shields just before halftime for the only score of the game.

"The most impressive thing was the competition today, with teams competing, as well as the two-minute drill that the offense scored on," said head coach Randy Shannon. "And in the other two-minute drill (just before the end of the game), the other team had an opportunity to score in the two-minute drill and it would have been a chance for us to take it into overtime or go for two (points).

"You always want to do more, but you can't show a lot when you open it up to the public because you never who's in the stands or who's filming (for an future opponent)," Shannon added. "It was a pretty clean scrimmage."
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Quarterback Taylor Bennett threw five touchdown passes, including two each to redshirt freshmen Demaryius Thomas and Correy Earls, and tailbacks Tashard Choice and Rashaun Grant combined for 120 yards rushing in the Yellow Jackets' final spring scrimmage, played in cold, windy conditions Saturday at Bobby Dodd Stadium/Grant Field.

Bennett and the first-team offense did most of their damage against Tech's second defense, but the Yellow Jackets' number one defense also had its moments against the second offense. The Jackets collected five sacks, including two each by defensive end Darrell Robertson and tackle Vance Walker, and linebacker Shane Bowen had the game's only interception. Linebacker Gary Guyton added two tackles for loss.

Banned In China

Ok, I know we say some things that may be considered "subversive" but I never thought that the blog would be banned in the People's Republic of China!

I got the information from the Great Firewall of China, which allows you to check any URL's availability in China and our blog was blocked. Oh, well, I guess we will have to spread the word about FSU football to other more open countries.

'The Coverage Is A Little Tighter"

“I believe the defensive secondary is playing better. I think I can tell a difference in a year on our corners and safeties. It seems like the coverage is a little tighter - a little tighter than it was this time a year ago.”
Bobby Bowden regarding defensive secondary

Spring Practice: Day Thirteen

With just one week remaining in spring practice, the FSU football team returned to the field and practiced for 22 periods Monday afternoon. One of the highlights of the day was a visit from Florida Governor Charlie Crist who went up to talk with head coach Bobby Bowden in his tower and then threw the ball around with wide receiver De'Cody Fagg before meeting new offensive coordinator Jimbo Fisher. On the field the team worked on punt block and protection, in position groups, 3-on-3 and in skel. The practice finished with 11-on-11 and 1:00 offense.

PRACTICE HIGHLIGHTS:
• In running drills the play of the period was turned in by Marcus Sims who may not have gained a lot of yards but was impressive with his solid run between the tackles.
• In Skeleton Drew Weatherford completed passes to Richard Goodman over the middle, to Rod Owens who made a great grab for a big gain and to Antone Smith on a deep ball after the tailback flared out of the backfield. Xavier Lee connected with Greg Carr on an out and Jamaal Edwards on a swing pass that went for a long gain. D'Vontrey Richardson recorded a TD pass when he hit Goodman in the endzone.
• Pass break-ups were recorded by Korey Mangum, Michael Ray Garvin, Patrick Robinson, Myron Rolle and Ochucko Jenije.
• In 11-on-11 Smith broke off a nice run and later bounced off a tackler for another good gainer. Sims had a big run as well but the rush came to an end on a big hit by Mister Alexander along the sideline. Weatherford hit Owens twice on TD passes and also connected with Fagg. Weatherford hit Fagg again later on but Jamie Robinson punched the ball out. Lee hit Damon McDaniel underneath. In red zone Sims had a nice 8-yard run from the 10.
• Neefy Moffett recorded a sack, Mangum broke up another pass and Justin Mincey forced an errant pass pressuring Weatherford. Alex Boston got the defense fired up picking off a pass on 3rd and 10 to end the first team's drive in 1:00 offense.
• Lee had success in the 1:00 offense as he connected with McDaniel and Carr. He then dropped jaws when he scrambled out of the pocket and found Chase Walker in the back of the endzone as the wide receiver made a spectacular TD grab.

QUOTES

Florida Governor Charlie Crist
"I'm a Nole. I love Florida State University and I love coach Bowden, I really do and I love what he has done for my university."

Head Coach Bobby Bowden

"We came out in shells today and I thought we had a pretty good practice. We worked on different situations - things like that. We're not catching the ball as good; we need to catch the ball better. I believe the defensive secondary is playing better. I think I can tell a difference in a year on our corners and safeties - I think I can tell the difference. I feel like their coverage is a little tighter than it was at this time a year ago. They are making some progress."

(on Governor Charlie Crist visiting practice)
"It was good to see him. We are both Pike's (Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity members). It was good to see him. He throws the ball pretty good doesn't he? I thought he threw it pretty dog-gone good. It surprised me. He throws it better than any governor I have seen. It's the first time I have [seen] him since he has become governor. He was maybe a sophomore or a junior when I first came here. I think he went to Wake Forest then he transferred here. Then he went to - he got his law degree where I got my degree - which is Samford University. I think he was on their (Wake Forest) team. He's from St. Petersburg. He's born in Pennsylvania and moved to St. Pete when he was three."

(on his spring game philosophy)
"I'll leave that up to the coaches. They might want to just play it plain or they might just want to throw the whole thing at them. I'll leave it up to them. It won't be like we'll be trying to shield a whole lotta stuff. We really aren't doing that much. It will be like it was last year - points - offense vs. defense. We will probably go 10 or 12 plays and out rather then try to go ones vs. twos. A lot of times when you try to go ones vs. twos and the end of the scrimmage you find out that ones got 45 plays and the twos got 80. We will let them go so many plays and them put the other group in there. We will go ones vs. ones and two vs. twos. That's what we talked about today."

(on keeping the players attention through spring practice)
"There are so many battles going on that are equal. Nearly at every position there is a battle going on. I think that helps keep their attention. It seems like it has been pretty good."

(will performances in the spring game help determine the starting quarterback?)
"It could if somebody has a great game and the other guy didn't. That definitely could happen. They look kind of even to me - pretty dang close - I don't see a big separation. Jimbo will play a big role in that. I have really tried to stay out of that so we wouldn't get old opinions - so we just get a fresh opinion of this thing. I really don't know how he'll do that. Very easily, very easily (on the race going into two-a-days)."

(on jobs being more defined at this point)
"There are two ways to look at that. No. One -- you would like to know who the guy is at all positions but the other thing is you maybe have a little better depth and making a fight out of. Nothing makes them practice harder or performer harder than having competition. Every time you walk out here and have competition - it helps.

(is competition a pleasant surprise?)
"It keeps them on their toes knowing somebody might get your job - or somebody's about to take your job."

Defensive Lineman Andre Fluellen
"This is basically my fifth year - it's the last year and I have to leave something around for the younger guys. It's not all about going to the next level; it's not all about making millions of dollars; it's trying to set a legacy here and trying to set Florida State's standards for the younger guys. Everybody is coming along. I think Budd (Thacker) is probably coming along more than anybody just leading the techniques and everything. But everybody is coming along - once we have everybody healthy for the fall - we can be unstoppable, I think. I want to keep the track record going. We have had some elite defensive tackles come out in the last three, four or five years so I just want to keep the legacy going - I don't want to look back and say I was the guy that broke the links. I'm doing whatever I have to do this summer to work my hardest and be my best."

Wide Receiver Rod Owens
"I just had two big plays but I did have a mistake. The coaches are making us realize that we have to be close to perfect. I'm not too pleased with my blocking. I feel like I have to be more aggressive and really focus - just concentrate a little more. I feel like I haven't been concentrating as much. To be honest with you, I think I am still shaking the rust off. I feel like I still want to get stronger and I still want to get faster so I feel like I am still in that process right now. I'm still working on it."

Poll Results

Results for poll question: What part of Spring Practice are you most interested in this year? was very close. The highest response was QB competition @ 40.5% with second highest Offensive line @ 37.8%.

New Poll Question

There is a new poll question: Will you be attending the Spring Game this Saturday?

Easter Wishes With An FSU Twist

"Be Able To Push Them When They Get Tired"

“The way you inspire and motivate as an individual coach over your group is key. We've got to be able to push them when they get tired. We've got to be able to make them have faith in something they don't see.”
FSU Running Back coach Dexter Carter