Florida State quarterback Jameis Winston has put the college football world on notice, he is NEXT, and through two games has the evidence to prove it. Albeit a young season, Winston has developed into one of the nation’s most efficient quarterbacks, ranking second nationally with a QB rating of 234.8.
Winston's fast start has drawn high praise in the form of a comparisons with the FSU elite. None more notable than with perhaps the greatest Seminole quarterback, Mr. Charlie Ward. In 1993, Ward swept all QB awards winning the Heisman Trophy, Maxwell Award, and Davey O'Brien Award all while subsequently leading Florida State to their first-ever National Championship. Of course, this is a super-tall order for anyone to fill, however Winton has Noles fans believing he is indeed the second coming.
To add perspective, take a look at the comparison between Winston's first two starts with that of Ward and recent 1st-round draft pick, E.J. Manuel.
Charlie Ward (Junior): 37-73 passing for 527 yards, 5 touchdowns, 8 interceptions; wins over Duke and Clemson.
E.J. Manuel (Sophomore): 32-47 passing for 426 yards, 1 touchdown, 4 interceptions; wins over Wake Forest and Maryland.
Jameis Winston (Freshman): 40-45 passing for 570 yards, 6 touchdowns, 1 interception; wins over Pittsburgh and Nevada.
Based on what we have witnessed to this point, it is very encouraging to think that Winston could top them all considering he has an earlier start and has the most impressive resume.
*Note: Week 4 Florida State plays host to Bethune Cookman @ Doak Campbell Stadium.
