GATORS GUTTED IN GAINESVILLE

FSU’s 37-9 rout of the Florida Gators in Gainesville on December 3, 1977, marked a turning point in the early years of Bobby Bowden’s tenure. The win snapped a nine-game losing streak to their in-state rivals and signaled the emergence of the Seminoles as a rising force in college football. In an iconic moment, Bowden was lifted by two of his defensive anchors, NG Ron Simmons (No. 50) and DE Willie Jones (No. 88). The team went on to finish 10-2 and earn a Tangerine Bowl bid, just two years after a 3-8 season. The celebration in Gainesville was a clear statement that the Garnet and Gold were on the rise.