FSU wants football to be fun again

TALLAHASSEE — It’s been roughly four months since Willie Taggart was hired at Florida State, and his lighthearted, calming presence has become a welcomed change for the Seminoles.

Under former coach Jimbo Fisher, FSU players took a steadfast, professional approach that translated to success on the field, particularly from 2012-2016. But Fisher’s business-like attitude and message to his players simply became stale as his tenure came to an end.

With Taggart at the helm, players have become refreshed. They said they have grown to appreciate a new coach they feel can confide in about anything. And those relationships have sparked a new spirit within the Florida State program.

“Florida State is starting to feel like what it’s supposed to be,” sophomore defensive tackle Marvin Wilson said.

The Seminoles began their spring practice session early Wednesday morning with hopes of setting the foundation to rebound from a disappointing 7-6 record last season.

Taggart and his new coaching staff have worked quickly to win their players over during meetings, team meals, pre-spring workouts and casual conversations since he was hired in December.

Wilson, a former five-star prospect, says the new attitude surrounding the Seminoles has made coming to practice less like work and more worthwhile.

“It’s a different atmosphere right now — it’s a family,” Wilson said candidly. “You know, it doesn’t feel like a job anymore. It feels like something we love. You loved football in high school. Now, you love it again in college.”

Taggart said his aim with fostering a lighthearted mood is for the players.

“All those guys came to Florida State to win championships and get a degree. [I’m] just making sure they don’t get away from that — the way they felt when they decided to come here,” Taggart said. “We need to live each and every day that way here. You have to go out there and work, take pride in it and try to win.”

While watching film of the Seminoles last season, Taggart said FSU players seemed to lack excitement at times on the football field.

“When you make plays, we get excited about it. That’s what a coach wants.”

Taggart does have one stipulation, however, for his players.

“Celebrate, have fun with it. Just don’t get me a flag, Taggart said. “Pretty simple.”