Former Florida State University quarterback Marcus Outzen, who started for the Seminoles in the first BCS Championship Game in 1999, died Tuesday of complications from a rare immunodeficiency disease, it was reported. tallahassee democrat and son Colton.
he was 46 years old, By West Palm Beach affiliate WPTV.
“Rest in peace @MarcusOutzen. Love you dad 🕊️.” Colton wrote Tuesday’s X.
According to the paper, Ouzen had been diagnosed with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). This rare disease prevents the immune system from functioning properly, According to Johns Hopkins.
Outzen, known as “The Rooster” for his demeanor and red hair, played at Florida State University from 1996 to 2000.
Outsen is best known for taking the starting role as a sophomore during the 1998 season after Chris Weinke suffered a neck injury.
He led the Seminoles to wins over Wake Forest and Florida, setting up a national championship game against Tennessee.
In the end, the University of Tennessee won 23-16, winning its first BCS title.
Uusen completed 9 of 22 passes for 145 yards and threw two interceptions, but scored on a 7-yard rushing touchdown in the fourth quarter.
“I never thought Marcus Outzen would be the starting quarterback this year,” former Florida State coach Bobby Bowden said before the game. “And certainly I never expected him to be the starting quarterback in the national championship game.”
Outsen returned to a backup role as Weinke’s backup for the next two seasons, including on Florida State’s 1999 national championship team, which defeated Virginia Tech 46-29 in the title game.
He finished his career completing 72 of 121 passes for 1,077 yards, five touchdowns, and six interceptions.
“Marcus was a good friend to a lot of people,” former Florida State teammate Bobby Rose told the Tallahassee Democrat.
“People liked him on and off the field. This is very sad.”
Auzen, a native of Fort Walton Beach, Fla., worked in pharmaceutical sales and lived in the Tampa area, the paper said. Reportedly, he loved golf.
“We are all speechless,” former Florida Secretary of State Barry Smith told the newspaper. “Marcus loved Florida State and was a very passionate family fan. I’m devastated for his wife and kids. Every time I saw him, he always had a big smile on his face. ”
