Taggart eager for FSU debut

Coach hopes to live up to standard set by Bowden, Fisher

TALLAHASSEE — When Florida State opens the 2018 season in Doak Campbell Stadium on Monday, Willie Taggart will be just the third head coach in 42 years to make his debut with the Seminoles.

Taggart is well aware of the success his predecessors, Bobby Bowden and Jimbo Fisher, had during their time at FSU — highlighted by national championships in 1993, 1999 and 2013.

Along with being a lifelong Seminoles fan and assuming his dream job last December, Taggart is embracing the challenge of returning Florida State to the pinnacle of college football.

“It means a lot to be able to lead this program, [and] to be able to try and stand on the shoulders of those guys that came before me and did a great job,” Taggart said. “People [who] say a lot about this program say those guys before me won a lot.

“I got to go out and win a lot of ball games if I want to be a part of those two.”

FSU will host Virginia Tech in the season opener with hopes of kicking off the Taggart era with a victory that will further separate the team from last season’s disappointing 7-6 campaign.

Taggart was hired to replace Fisher, who agreed to a 10-year, $75 million deal with Texas A&M, completing a contentious departure after 11 years with the Seminoles.

Since taking the job, Taggart has worked to gain the trust of FSU’s players, its administration and the Seminoles fan base, inciting eagerness that will reach a tipping point on Monday night.

“How many months have I been here? Enough,” Taggart said. “I’ve spent a long time looking forward to this. Game week from this point on is all gas and no breaks. I’m really excited to see our guys perform on Monday night.”

The Seminoles expect a slew of former players to be in attendance as former standout receiver Peter Warrick will have his No. 9 jersey retired at halftime.

Bowden and former Virginia Tech coach Frank Beamer — the winningest coaches in ACC history — will serve as honorary captains before the game.

It will be Bowden’s second time in Doak Campbell Stadium since Taggart was hired, after his appearance during FSU’s spring game.

“I know for me it’s going to be like the spring game getting to watch him walk out there and get goosebumps when he comes out,” Taggart said of Bowden. “I get them every time I see Coach Bowden. I’m happy for him he’ll back on that field, starting the season for us as honorary captain. It’ll be great.”