Though Florida State quarterback Jameis Winston is gunning to become the first two-time Heisman Trophy winner in four decades, the Seminoles star has been embroiled in numerous controversies and off-field incidents, the latest of which was a quick suspension for “offensive and vulgar” behavior, to be served at tomorrow’s game against Clemson. To many, this suspension was a punishment too lenient for Winston, but Florida State coach Jimbo Fisher spoke out against those critics yesterday, defending Winston against those who believe his suspension is tantamount to a slap on the wrist.
“We’re in charge. It’s our team. That’s our thought,” read Fisher’s prepared statement, which succinctly stated that the Seminoles are fully behind the talented, yet controversial Winston. “We went with the consequences and we’re ready to move on,” Fisher continued in the statement, which interestingly did not include his name. This led to speculation that the decision to slap Winston with a light form of punishment was a university administration decision, rather than a team decision.
“They’re always involved in university policies,” said Fisher, regarding this contention. “That’s (the way) things (are) at Florida State, (that’s) the way we do it.”
Winston’s latest transgression saw the quarterback standing on a table on campus and yelling sexually suggestive and profane chants, making it the sixth infraction in a list that included the infamous “crab legs” incident in April. He later apologized to teammates Wednesday, and while Fisher was not present at that press conference, backup quarterback Sean Maguire told reporters that the apology was an earnest and passionate one. “Jameis loves this team as much as the next guy, if not even more,” said Maguire, who will be making his first career start tomorrow. “I know how he feels as far as how deep his apology goes.”