Quarterback is the most crucial position on the football field. At Florida State University (FSU), the role of the quarterback (QB) has been especially prominent, producing some of the most notable players in college football history. The Seminoles have established a long-standing tradition of producing top-tier quarterbacks, often leading their team to national prominence. This article delves into the history of FSU quarterbacks, the evolution of their playing styles, standout individuals, and the future of the position within the program.
I. Historical Overview of FSU Quarterbacks
The Florida State Seminoles have been competing in college football since the late 1940s, but it wasn’t until the 1970s and 1980s that the team began to emerge as a national powerhouse. Under head coach Bobby Bowden, FSU developed a reputation for high-flying offenses, often led by dynamic quarterbacks. These players didn’t just run offenses — they became the focal points of the team and were instrumental in shaping FSU’s legacy as a college football giant.
The Early Days: Steve Tensi and Gary Huff
Before FSU qb truly became a national powerhouse, they had quarterbacks like Steve Tensi, who was instrumental in FSU’s success during the early 1960s. Tensi’s ability to throw the deep ball set the tone for future quarterbacks at Florida State. In 1964, Tensi teamed up with future NFL wide receiver Fred Biletnikoff to lead the Seminoles to a 9-1-1 season and a victory in the Gator Bowl.
Gary Huff followed Tensi in the early 1970s and became FSU’s first true superstar quarterback. He was one of the first Seminole quarterbacks to achieve national attention, earning All-American honors. Huff’s ability to read defenses and his poise in the pocket helped pave the way for future generations of quarterbacks at Florida State.
Bobby Bowden Era: The Golden Age of FSU Quarterbacks
The most significant era of quarterback development at FSU came under legendary head coach Bobby Bowden. From 1976 to 2009, Bowden’s offensive system helped produce some of the most decorated and successful quarterbacks in college football history.
One of the first standout QBs under Bowden was Wally Woodham. Although he shared the starting role with Jimmy Jordan in the late 1970s, Woodham’s contributions were crucial in elevating FSU’s football program. The two-quarterback system that Bowden employed was somewhat revolutionary for its time and showcased the depth of talent at the position.
The 1980s saw the emergence of quarterbacks like Danny McManus and Chip Ferguson, but the real turning point came in the early 1990s.
II. The 1990s: FSU’s Dominance with Heisman-Level Quarterbacks
Charlie Ward: The First Heisman Winner
Charlie Ward, the quarterback who played from 1989 to 1993, is often credited with revolutionizing the quarterback position at FSU. A dual-sport athlete (he also excelled in basketball), Ward had an unparalleled football IQ combined with elite athleticism. His ability to move in and out of the pocket, make precise throws, and lead a fast-paced offense made him one of the most dynamic players in college football history.
Ward’s crowning achievement came in 1993 when he won the Heisman Trophy, becoming the first FSU quarterback to do so. That year, Ward led the Seminoles to their first-ever national championship, and his offensive leadership became the blueprint for future quarterbacks under Bowden. After college, Ward opted for a professional basketball career, playing in the NBA, but his legacy at FSU remains untouchable.
Danny Kanell and the Continuation of Success
Following Ward’s departure, the question loomed: could FSU maintain its dominance at the quarterback position? The answer came in the form of Danny Kanell, who took over as the starting quarterback in the mid-1990s. Kanell’s tenure was successful, as he continued FSU’s streak of dominance in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). He led the team to multiple high-profile bowl games and kept the Seminoles in the national championship conversation.
While Kanell never achieved the same accolades as Ward, he was a steady presence for FSU, using his strong arm and leadership skills to guide the team. His professional career in the NFL may have been relatively quiet, but his contributions to Florida State were significant.
Chris Weinke: The Veteran Leader
The next standout quarterback for FSU was Chris Weinke, a player who took an unusual route to success. Weinke initially pursued a career in professional baseball before returning to college to play football. He became the oldest Heisman Trophy winner at the age of 28, securing the award in 2000 after a stellar season.
Weinke led the Seminoles to two consecutive BCS National Championship games, winning one in 1999. His maturity and experience were vital in leading one of the most talented FSU rosters ever assembled. Weinke’s ability to command the offense, make pinpoint throws, and manage the game cemented his place among the greats in FSU’s quarterback pantheon.
III. Post-Bowden Era: The Jameis Winston Phenomenon
Jameis Winston: A Return to Glory
After Bobby Bowden’s retirement in 2009, there was a period of transition for FSU quarterbacks under new head coach Jimbo Fisher. However, in 2013, the Seminoles experienced a resurgence, largely due to the emergence of quarterback Jameis Winston.
Winston, a highly-touted recruit, became the starter as a redshirt freshman and immediately took college football by storm. His blend of size, arm strength, and confidence made him nearly unstoppable. Winston led FSU to an undefeated season in 2013, culminating in a victory over Auburn in the BCS National Championship game. Along the way, Winston won the Heisman Trophy, making him the second FSU quarterback to achieve that honor.
While Winston’s college career was marked by on-field excellence, it was also clouded by off-field controversies. Despite these distractions, Winston’s talent was undeniable. He finished his FSU career with an impressive 26-1 record as a starter and became the first overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
IV. The Post-Winston Era and the Quarterback Carousel
After Winston’s departure, FSU struggled to find consistency at the quarterback position. Several quarterbacks were cycled in and out of the starting role, but none were able to replicate the success of their predecessors.
Deondre Francois and James Blackman
In 2016, it seemed like FSU had found their next great quarterback in Deondre Francois. As a redshirt freshman, Francois showed promise, leading the Seminoles to an Orange Bowl victory. His toughness and ability to make plays under pressure earned him high praise.
Unfortunately, Francois’ career was marred by injuries and off-field issues. His 2017 season was cut short due to a severe knee injury in the season opener, and his play never quite reached the level expected.
Following Francois, James Blackman took over, but like his predecessors, Blackman struggled to bring stability to the position. FSU’s offensive line issues, combined with inconsistent play from the quarterbacks, led to a string of disappointing seasons.
Jordan Travis and the Dual-Threat Revival
More recently, Jordan Travis has emerged as a bright spot for FSU at quarterback. A dual-threat QB, Travis has shown flashes of brilliance, both as a passer and a runner. His ability to extend plays with his legs and make dynamic throws downfield has given FSU fans hope that the Seminoles might return to national prominence.
Travis’s development under current head coach Mike Norvell has been encouraging, though FSU is still in the process of rebuilding the program. While not yet at the level of the greats like Ward or Winston, Travis’ skill set suggests that he could help lead FSU back into contention for ACC titles and beyond.
V. The Future of FSU Quarterbacks
Florida State’s history of quarterback success is well-established, but the future remains uncertain. Recruiting top-tier quarterbacks is essential for sustained success, and FSU QB has continued to target some of the best high school players in the country. The program’s ability to develop quarterbacks and surround them with a strong supporting cast will be key to its future success.
With the rise of dual-threat quarterbacks across college football, FSU seems poised to continue adapting to the modern game. The Seminoles’ offensive schemes are increasingly designed to take advantage of quarterbacks who can both pass and run, making the position even more critical to the team’s success.
Conclusion
The quarterback position at Florida State University has been defined by a combination of exceptional talent, innovative coaching, and a tradition of excellence. From the days of Steve Tensi and Gary Huff to the golden era under Bobby Bowden with Charlie Ward and Chris Weinke, and through the more recent success with Jameis Winston, FSU quarterbacks have been central to the team’s success.
As FSU continues to rebuild under Mike Norvell, the quarterback position remains the key to unlocking future championships. The rich legacy of Seminole quarterbacks offers both a source of pride and a roadmap for the future, as the program seeks to return to the top of college football. Whether through the development of current talents like Jordan Travis or the recruitment of future stars, FSU will undoubtedly continue to be a breeding ground for elite quarterbacks.