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FSU's Bowden says he'll have final say on Andrews' replacement

Associated Press file photo

Bobby Bowden said his decision about returning next season isn't tied to Andrews' decision to retire.

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By STEVE ELLIS

Tallahassee Democrat

Published: November 4, 2009

Updated: 11/04/2009 12:44 pm

TALLAHASSEE - Bobby Bowden didn't mince his words when asked on the ACC weekly teleconference who will name Mickey Andrews' replacement. The Florida State head football coach said he will have the final word.

Andrews announced this week that he will retire as defensive coordinator following this season – his 26th in that position at FSU. There still remains the question as to whether this will be Bowden's final season.

If it is, head coach-in-waiting Jimbo Fisher will take over, and the decision to make staff changes would clearly rest with him.

But if Bowden returns, will those decisions belong to Bowden, Fisher or both?

"I think he definitely has to have a say-so because he's the future here. You know it?" Bowden said of Fisher. "And it's one of those things I'll make the final decision on. But I'll definitely get his input, and very strongly."

No timetable has been set for naming a new defensive coordinator but ideally it should be no later than when the bowl season ends.

Bowden said that in no way would his own decision about next season be tied in with Andrews' decision to retire.

Bowden is under a one-year contract, and Fisher has a deal with FSU that he will be paid $5 million if he does not become the head coach by January 2011.

"Mickey's leaving doesn't have anything to do with my tenure here at Florida State," Bowden said. "It has no bearing whatsoever on what I do."

Meantime, Bowden is hoping that his star quarterback can get back to practice soon as Florida State prepares for a key game Saturday at Clemson.

Bowden said Wednesday that Christian Ponder did not take part in Monday or Tuesday practices and was limited to a few gentle lobs on the sidelines as he recovers from bruised ribs suffered in last weekend's win over North Carolina State.

Bowden said Ponder, who ranks third nationally in total offense, is real sore. Redshirt freshman E.J. Manuel has been taking practice snaps in Ponder's absence.

However, Bowden said he was still optimisic that Ponder would play Saturday even if he was limited in practice this week.

Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.

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