So, I spent time watching and re-watching the game from Saturday, and while most of the media pundits were focusing on QB EJ Manuel and the rest of the Seminole offense, my eyes kept diverting to the Seminole sideline. There, wearing number five in garnet and gold, with a hat on his head, a figure kept bouncing around, always making sure he kept himself involved as much as possible.
This figure was QB Jameis Winston, and his infectious enthusiasm and desire for learning could be seen every time ESPN panned over to the sideline. He made contact with every player coming off the field, praising them for their performance. He followed Coach Fisher, Coach Trickett, and Manuel around, soaking up as much knowledge as possible throughout the entire game.
Watching all this unfold made me recognize how well Coach Fisher is establishing the foundation for future success. Winston was one of the top rated QBs coming out of high school. He had the potential to start for a number of FBS squads, or even play baseball in college or at the professional level. But Winston saw something, despite taking a redshirt, and possibly sitting on the bench for a couple of years, that made him choose FSU.
Part of it could be the relationship he has with Manuel, who took a similar path when he agreed to join Coach Fisher at Florida State. Manuel too, redshirted his freshman year, and spent a few years on the bench, before getting his opportunity. The two (EJ and Jameis) have had a mentor/mentee relationship since the Elite 11 academy last year.
Part of it could be Coach Fisher’s success with developing QB’s, and the cusp of greatness that Florida State sits at. Watching the Seminoles performance on Saturday, and what possibly could be the start of something big, isn’t it exciting to see the future of all this -- putting him in a position to gain as much exposure and knowledge as possible?
Jameis Winston will do great things for Florida State University, and it's already starting with his learning.
Tomahawk Stickers for last week’s de-clawing of the Tigers:
QB EJ Manuel (482 total yards, 2 passing touchdowns): Manuel has received heaps of praise and accolades from everywhere else. Why not here too?
FSU’s Offensive Line: 667 yards of total offense! How can credit not be given to the big guys up front, especially with how quickly they have come together as a unit.
Comments? Questions? Kudos?