Resurfaced Bobby Bowden letter reveals college football's changes over the years

In 1977, Florida State University's head football coach Bobby Bowden communicated with his team through a letter dated August 3, instructing players to report to camp by 11 a.m. on August 19. At the time, Bowden was entering his second season with the Seminoles, following a 5-6 record in his first year. The 1977 season marked a turning point for Bowden and the team, as they began with a decisive 35-6 victory over Southern Miss and soon entered the AP Top 20 after a 6-1 start, including a significant win over Auburn.

The Seminoles played one regular-season game on television, defeating Florida 37-9, and concluded the season with a 40-17 victory over Texas Tech in the Tangerine Bowl. This successful season laid the foundation for Bowden's legacy, leading to Florida State's transformation into a dominant force in college football. Bowden ultimately achieved 377 wins and two national championships