Christmas came early to Top Taggert Field this year. Bulldog fans received a nice little present all wrapped up tight in a crimson and gold jersey with the number 47 stamped on the front.
Saturday night, freshman kicker Victor Bodrie made his collegiate debut against Ohio Dominican. In his unveiling, Bodrie connected on five field goals as FSU went on to romp ODU 35-13.
In doing so, he tied the school record for most field goals made in a game which was set by celebrated kicker Doc Proctor against Northern Michigan in 1998. (Interestingly enough, Proctor is currently in his first season as the Bulldogs’ kicking coach).
Here I’ve been sitting, hoping, waiting, wishing for FSU’s special teams to step up and contribute. There have simply been far too many missed opportunities this season, and it’s simply been far too aggravating. All the while, Bodrie was just standing on the sidelines.
At first, I was slightly peeved that Jeff Pierce had been keeping Bodrie all to himself, but those feelings quickly passed. Now, I’m simply excited, and the only thing I have to compare it to is the way I feel on December 25.
With their new kicker, the Bulldogs played their most complete game of the season. The defense was there. The offense was there. And special teams finally joined the party.
Everything is coming together. If things are looking this good already, what will the rest of the football season hold? What does this team have the potential to accomplish? Is this the year FSU will beat Grand Valley? (Keep in mind, the Lakers recently lost to Hillsdale, a team which the Bulldogs defeated in the season opener).
He’s making his list. He’s checking it twice. He’s going to find out who’s been naughty or nice. I expect Coach Pierce has a few more presents left in store for Bulldog fans this season, and Laker fans aren’t going to feel any holiday cheer when FSU comes to town.