Bobby Bowden's Job Is Safe For The Remainder Of The Season

NFL News - October 7th, 2009 - Written by Scott

After a few days of uncertainty regarding Bobby Bowden and his future with the Florida State football program, university president T.K. Wetherell announced Wednesday that he would remain the head coach through the remainder of the season.  Chairman of the Board of Trustees for Florida State, Jim Smith, announced early in the week that it is time for Bowden to step down at the end of the season.  Criticism of Bowden around Seminole Nation has stemmed from the team's slow start.  FSU is 2-3 overall and 0-2 in the ACC.  Wetherell stated his support for Bowden and said that the program will be evaluated at the conclusion of the season.

"FSU does not make coaching changes in the middle of the season," Wetherell said. "What message would it send to anyone -- friend or foe -- to do that at this time?"

FSU hired Jimbo Fisher in 2007 and he was named head coach-in-waiting.  Expecting a smooth transition once Bowden retires, Smith said that this situation is not working with the two coaches.  If Fisher is not named the head coach at the end of the 2010 season, an agreement made by the university and Fisher states that FSU will have to pay Fisher $5 million.  Wetherell also made it clear that Fisher will be the next head coach at Florida State.   Bowden, who is on a year-by-year contract, said that he would let his boss know his plans following this year's season.  The turmoil that began early this week has not affected Bowden as it would most coaches.

"If I was 40 years old I'd be shakin' in my boots," Bowden said, "but I'm 79. I've been through it. Most of my coaching is behind me. It don't bother me that much. The only thing I worry about or am concerned about is it a distraction for my team? And it isn't. I tell them what to listen to, what not to."

Bowden ranks second in all time victories with 384, three behind Penn State head coach Joe Paterno.  He has insisted that this situation will not have any effect on his team as they prepare for Georgia Tech this Saturday night.  He also is very thankful for the decision made by Wetherell.

"I think he's wise and I'm very thankful," Bowden said. "Our players, we tell them don't pay any attention to that stuff, just concentrate on your next opponent, and I'm sure that's what they'll do."

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