Willie Taggart making Florida State players compete for best jersey numbers
Willie Taggart has instituted a new policy regarding single-digit numbers for the Florida State football team.
As the program transitions from Jimbo Fisher to the newly-hired Taggart, it’s understandable that changes in philosophies would be part of the process. Included in that is how uniform numbers one through nine will be distributed.
In the past, players could carry their numbers over from one year to the next. Now, single-digit numbers will have to be earned during practice.
“I know when I was growing up the single digits went to the dudes. That’s kind of how we want it,” Taggart told the Associated Press. “Not everyone can be a single digit. Getting it is being one of the best.”
Florida State has enjoyed success over the past few decades that has been matched by few programs in the country. During that time, several players who had standout careers sported single-digit numbers on their jerseys. Deion Sanders, LeRoy Butler, Corey Sawyer, Sam Cowart, Peter Warrick, Jameis Winston, Jalen Ramsey, and Dalvin Cook are just a few who have have worn single-digit numbers.
The next crop of players to join that group will have to earn their way, including running back Cam Akers. Akers was the Seminoles’ leading rusher last season. He did so wearing No. 3. During spring practice he has been wearing No. 23.
