November 14, 2006

Gene Williams
Warchant.com Publisher

Following the humiliating 30-0 loss to Wake Forest last Saturday and a very disappointing season, it's not surprising that a major change was made with the Florida State coaching staff.

During a press conference this afternoon, Director of Athletics Dave Hart announced that Jeff Bowden has stepped down as FSU's offensive coordinator. According to Hart, he will continue to coach at least through the season finale versus Florida and then will be "reassigned" to a position outside the athletic department.

"Jeff initiated this conversation with me over the course of the last couple of days or so," Hart said. "There was mutual understanding and agreement that this decision was in the best interest of all concerned and that a public announcement should be expedited for all concerned.

"Jeff will be reassigned outside of the department of athletics and will finish his existing contract term which runs through August."

Jeff Bowden, the son of head coach Bobby Bowden, was promoted to offensive coordinator following the 2000 season when Mark Richt took over as Georgia's head coach.

After Hart's statement, Jeff Bowden spoke briefly with reporters but didn't answer any questions. He cited doing what was best for his father and himself as reasons for his decision.

"I believe in my heart for Bobby Bowden this is the decision I need to make and for myself and my family," Jeff Bowden said. "I could not be happier that I had this opportunity. It's just time for me to move on now. I just hope the next guy can come in and close this deal for this program."

Hart did not have any information on the search for the next offensive coordinator other than to say that Bobby Bowden will handle the search.

Warchant.com will have more coverage of the breaking news with the press conference Q&A, audio, video and more.