THE LAST CHARGE

This dynamic photo captures Bobby Bowden huddling with his team during the 2009 season, his final year as head coach at FSU. Though the season had its challenges — FSU finished 7–6 — the Seminoles closed the year on a high note with a 33-21 victory over West Virginia in the Gator Bowl. The win marked Bowden’s final game on the sideline and added to his impressive win total. The 2009 squad also featured future NFL players like QB Christian Ponder and WR Bert Reed. Bowden, who spent decades inspiring players to be their best on and off the field, frequently told his teams, “Don’t go to the grave with life unused.”