Bowden exits a winner

It only seems fitting.

On this New Year's Day, Florida State head coach Bobby Bowden leaves the stage of college football on top as his Seminoles beat West Virginia 33-12 in the Gator Bowl.

When this matchup was announced, I was torn. I knew it was Bowden's swan song and I thought Florida State had no chance at a victory. West Virginia was a top 15 team and Florida State was a .500 club. I know many had the same thought as I did. I didn't want to see Bowden leave on such a sour note even though the circumstances of his depature already had a sour smell to it. But the Seminoles prevailed. And college football is rewarded with a grand exit.

Over the years, Bowden has received his fair share of criticism for how the FSU program was run. Some deserved and some not. Run-ins with local law enforcement was getting to almost be commonplace.

To be honest, watching his Seminole teams in the late 80's and all through the 90's was the major reason I was attracted to college football. Sure, I watched, but with a passing interest. Something about Bowden's teams drew me in. I've been hooked on college football ever since. I know I don't write much about it, but I love college football more the professional football. I guess its that way with collegiate sports as a whole.

I attribute Bowden for giving many major college programs a kick in the pants. If not for his success in the 80's and 90's, the competition might not have been so quick to attempt to catch up to his Seminole program. Proof? From 1987-2000, Florida Sate finished in the top 5 in the final rankings every year. During that span, Bowden led Florida State to two National Championships (wins over Nebraksa in the '94 Orange Bowl and Virginia Tech in the 2000 Sugar Bowl).

While Bowden departs from the Florida State football program, all is not lost for FSU fans. Jimbo Fisher inherits a program that just might be on the verge of regaining some pep in its step. This win will go a long way in recruiting.

College football says good-bye to a legend today.

Coach Bowden, I thank you.

And college football is better for your dedication.