Organized Chaos

Florida State wrapped up the 2008 football season on Saturday with a 42-13 win against Wisconsin in the Champs Sports Bowl. The Seminoles finished the season 9-4, winning at least nine games for the first time since 2004.

Early on it was another case of a sluggish FSU offense taking the field. Had it not been for game MVP Graham Gano pinning the Badgers inside their 2-yard line three times then this game could have turned out differently.

Bobby Bowden noted how this was a flashback to the past and it appeared so as the defense gave the Seminoles its first score on a 75-yard fumble return for a TD by Derek Nicholson. Dekoda Watson also had a fumble return for a score.

But those big plays masked a defense that was torched on the ground again. FSU gave up 201 yards rushing, but a steadily growing lead helped the Seminoles avoid a disaster. The run defense was terrible down the stretch.

This was a game where it looked like the Seminoles were having fun. They needed a game like this, especially after how they finished the year.

What’s next? Well, I’ve already delved into that. You can read my thoughts again if you’d like. But there’s little doubt there will be momentum from this heading into the spring.

Here’s a few quick final thoughts:

Myron Rolle played his final collegiate game, but you shouldn’t worry too much about his departure. He was highly touted out of high school but never became a truly great safety. He was OK, and Bobby Bowden even noted Rolle needed to make bigger plays.

Also, Gano was the team’s season MVP. He was amazing as a place-kicker and showed that he should have been punting all season. He will be sorely missed.

Standout player: Greg Carr ended his FSU career with eight grabs for 78 yards and a TD. He also made a heckuva one-handed catch.

Inside the boxscore: Wisconsin running back P.J. Hill had 140 yards, which is a lot in such a blowout game. … Drew Weatherford played late, finishing 5 of 6 for 77 yards. … FSU again played well on third down, going 10 of 17.

Next up: Recruiting. FSU needs a good class and a lot of the incoming guys are sure to play. The Seminoles will be solid on offense but need to fill holes on defense.

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