FSU FOOTBALL IN THE ’50S

This circa-1950s photograph offers a vivid glimpse into the early years of FSU football, a decade that saw the program lay the foundation for its future success. The 1950s were marked by significant milestones, including the construction and expansion of Doak Campbell Stadium in 1950 and the hiring of head coach Tom Nugent, who introduced innovative strategies like the I-formation. Shortly after Nugent became head coach in 1953, he gave an inspirational talk to the FSU student body about believing in yourself. “There is magic in believing,” Nugent told the crowd. The 1950s was also a time of rising fan support, growing rivalries and program-building seasons that helped the Seminoles gain national recognition. Though wins were often hard-earned, the spirit and determination captured in images like this reflect the grit and growth of a team forging its identity in the postwar era.