It’s hard to believe this team was picked by the media to win the Atlantic Division, as it unraveled early and eventually ended with the administration forcing legendary coach Bobby Bowden to retire. FSU’s 2-4 record to start the season tied the worst mark ever by a Bowden-led team since he took over the program in 1976, but the Noles were able to regroup and will send Bowden off into retirement with an appearance in the Gator Bowl.

Had Jarmon Fortson’s play in the end zone on the very last play of the season opener against Miami been ruled a catch, who knows what different turn this season might have taken for the Noles? They would have been 3-0 with a huge upset of No. 7 BYU heading into their home game against South Florida. Instead, the Noles went on a three-game losing streak heading into their Thursday night date with North Carolina, and a closed-door meeting of high-ranking university officials in October signaled a desire for change.

But Florida State’s impressive comeback win against North Carolina helped keep the postseason possibility alive. Despite one of the country’s worst defenses, the announced retirement of defensive coordinator Mickey Andrews, and the season-ending injury to standout quarterback Christian Ponder, Florida State was able to beat Wake Forest on Nov. 14 to inch within one win of bowl eligibility with two games remaining. An ugly home win over Maryland sealed the deal, but the season ended on a sour note with an embarrassing 37-10 drubbing by rival Florida in the Swamp, and the announcement of Bowden’s resignation two days later.

Offensive MVP: Quarterback Christian Ponder: Despite missing the final three games with a shoulder injury, Ponder still leads the ACC in passing average per game, and is fourth in passing efficiency. He completed a league-best 68.8 percent of his passes for 2,717 yards, 14 touchdowns and seven interceptions. He is No. 18 in the country in passing efficiency and No. 3 in total offense.

Defensive MVP: Free safety Jamie Robinson: He was the most consistently good player on a defense that struggled consistently, and he put up career-best numbers. Robinson was the team’s third leading tackler with 74, had one sack, three interceptions, and eight passes defended. He also had one forced fumble and a fumble recovery.

Turning point: The 41-28 win at Wake Forest snapped a three-game losing streak to the Deacs, and it showed a group effort that supported the first career start of backup quarterback E.J. Manuel. The win was key in extending the Seminoles’ season.

What’s next: Offensive coordinator Jimbo Fisher has already begun to make his staff changes, and Bowden said he will clean out his office soon. It’s Fisher’s team now, and his many tasks include recruiting, reuniting the fan base, and beat Florida. First, though, FSU will try to bid Bowden farewell with a win over West Virginia in the Gator Bowl.