PONDER’S PROTECTOR

This rare black helmet with garnet and gold features was worn by Noles QB Christian Ponder, one of the most cerebral and respected leaders in program history. Ponder played from 2006 to 2010 and served as the team’s starting quarterback during a transitional period that saw the end of the Bobby Bowden era and the beginning of Jimbo Fisher’s tenure. He led the Seminoles to the 2010 ACC Atlantic Division title and was a top-15 pick in the 2011 NFL Draft. But it was Ponder’s well-rounded excellence that earned him special recognition: on January 8, 2011, he became the first FSU player ever to receive the Bobby Bowden Award, which honors the college football player who best combines performance on the field, academic achievement and strong character as a “faith model” in the community.