Florida State Makes Right Call Naming Everett Golson Starting QB

When Everett Golson chose to transfer from Notre Dame, he had his choice of schools to attend next, but he chose Florida State, mostly because it was the highest-profile school that had an opening at starting quarterback.

Once he made it to Tallahassee, head coach Jimbo Fisher didn’t just hand him the keys to the car — he made him compete against Sean Maguire for the job. On Monday, Fisher announced that Golson had indeed won that battle against Maguire, as he named Golson the starting quarterback for the Seminoles’ opener against Texas State.

#ND transfer Everett Golson is #FSU‘s new starting QB.

— Bruce Feldman (@BruceFeldmanCFB) August 31, 2015

While I like that Fisher made Golson earn the job, it is obvious that he gives Florida State the best shot at returning to the College Football Playoff. His ability to extend plays and escape from the pocket will give the Seminoles a dimension to the offense that Maguire doesn’t have. In addition, Golson has been a starting quarterback at one of the top institutions in the country, and he’s succeeded at a very high level.

While at Notre Dame, Golson completed 443 of his 745 pass attempts, which is good for a 59.4% completion percentage, while amassing 5,850 passing yards and 41 touchdowns. As a runner, Golson rushed for 581 yards and 14 touchdowns; keep in mind, sacks are taken off of the quarterback’s rushing total in college.

In short, Fisher chose athleticism and experience over limited potential, which was the right call to make. With Florida State’s soft schedule, it’s entirely possible that Golson produces another playoff appearance for the Seminoles.

Jason Fletcher is a Senior Writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @JasonFletcher25, “Like” him on Facebook, or add him to your network on Google+.