Florida State University is set to celebrate two of its most iconic figures in program history, wide receiver Peter Warrick and defensive tackles coach Odell Haggins. In a momentous occasion for Seminole fans, Warrick’s No. 9 jersey will be officially retired, while Haggins will be inducted into the prestigious FSU Hall of Fame as part of the 2018 class.
The news, delivered personally by FSU head coach Willie Taggart, underscores the university’s commitment to honoring its rich football legacy. Taggart, who has emphasized the program’s history since his arrival in December, chose to personally inform both Warrick and Haggins of their заслуженный honors. This personal touch highlights the significance of their contributions to Florida State football.
Peter Warrick’s career at Florida State from 1995 to 1999 was nothing short of spectacular. A consensus All-American in 1998 and a unanimous All-American in 1999, Warrick consistently demonstrated exceptional talent and playmaking ability. His senior season was curtailed to nine games, yet he still amassed an impressive 71 receptions for 934 yards and eight touchdowns, showcasing his consistent impact on the field. Throughout his Seminole career, Peter Warrick accumulated 207 receptions, 3,517 receiving yards, and 32 touchdowns, solidifying his place among the all-time greats. His junior year was particularly remarkable, marked by 61 catches, 1,232 yards, and 12 touchdowns, achieving an astounding 20.2 yards per reception. Warrick’s previous recognition includes induction into the FSU Hall of Fame in 2010, further cementing his legendary status within the program.
One of the most memorable moments of Peter Warrick’s illustrious career came in the 1999 National Championship game against Virginia Tech. In a dominant Seminole victory of 46-29, Warrick delivered a performance for the ages, racking up 163 receiving yards, including a breathtaking diving catch in the end zone while tightly guarded by a defender. Adding to his night, he also contributed a punt return touchdown, leaving an indelible mark on college football’s biggest stage. His exceptional college career paved the way for him to be drafted fourth overall in the 2000 NFL draft by the Cincinnati Bengals. The retirement of Peter Warrick’s No. 9 jersey is a fitting tribute to a player who embodied the spirit and excellence of Florida State football.
Odell Haggins’ contributions to Florida State are equally profound, spanning both his playing days and his distinguished coaching career. As a player from 1985 to 1989, Haggins earned First Team All-American honors in 1989 (AFCA, Walter Camp). His senior season statistics speak volumes about his dominance on the defensive line, recording 100 tackles and 5.5 sacks in 12 games. Following his collegiate success, Haggins was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the ninth round of the 1990 NFL draft.
Returning to Tallahassee to begin his coaching journey in 1994, Haggins has been a cornerstone of the FSU coaching staff ever since. He has served as the defensive tackles coach since 1996, molding and mentoring numerous players who have gone on to NFL careers. An impressive 13 of his defensive tackles have been drafted into the NFL, including four first-round picks, a testament to his coaching expertise and player development skills. Notably, Haggins stepped up as the interim head coach after Jimbo Fisher’s departure in 2017, leading the Seminoles to a perfect 2-0 record. His interim tenure included decisive victories over Louisiana-Monroe (42-10) and Southern Miss (42-13) in the Independence Bowl. This unblemished record distinguishes him as the only head coach in FSU history to achieve a perfect win record. Currently, Odell Haggins holds the distinction of being the longest-tenured coach on the Seminoles staff, embodying loyalty and commitment to Florida State football.
The dual honors for Peter Warrick and Odell Haggins represent a powerful moment for Florida State, celebrating both past glories and continued dedication. For fans and the university alike, recognizing these two legends serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy and bright future of Seminole football.
