Bobby Bowden called Florida State's 1979 game against LSU the biggest in school history. What nobody knew was that it was like a personal coin toss for the coach, with consequences far bigger than beating a major power. Winning it would be confirmation that Bowden — only in his fourth season at FSU — should stay put and continue building the program. Losing to LSU would be like an omen that meant he should move on to greener pastures elsewhere.
Jimmy Jordan was the surprise starter under center that day in Baton Rouge. He was half of the two-headed QB system with fellow Leon-grad Wally Woodham.
Woodham, with a hot hand, had seen more playing time that season. But Bowden believed Jordan's ability with the deep ball would be the Noles' edge. With Jordan tossing TD passes of 53 and 40 yards, FSU knocked off the Tigers at homecoming and on national TV, 24-19.
Here's Jordan talking about that pivotal game during last Saturday's Sod Cemetery event. He also has praise for FSU's current winning streak, including the team's ability to focus and find ways to win. After listening to Jordan, check out our longer interview with his co-quarterback, Wally Woodham, in the 70s category on the sidebar at the right.
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