2. THE ROOSTER: Marcus Outzen, FSU, 1998

Posted Nov 20, 2005 by Carl Lisciandrello

Updated Nov 20, 2005 at 03:31 PM

Three-and-Outzen. That was the derisive slogan for Gator fans said heading into the season’s final game. FSU quarterback Chris Weinke was injured and out for the season. The Seminoles turned to inexperienced sophomore Marcus Outzen, nicknamed “The Rooster” because of his flaming red hair. Outzen oversaw a 23-12 upset victory against the No. 4-ranked Gators, going 13 of 22 for 167 yards and one touchdown (on a tipped pass). Outzen, had no turnovers, carried the giant FSU flag as he took a victory lap around Doak Campbell Stadium. “I’m on top of the world,” Outzen said. “I’m in shock.” Outzen started the Fiesta Bowl against Tennessee, a 23-16 loss, and was just 9 of 22 for 145 yards (with two interceptions). But no one will ever forget the time an Outzen-led FSU team beat the Gators.