First Down: Best Seminoles players

HE SAID WHAT?

“It was a confidence-building thing and know you’ve got the best teacher in the game teaching you how to do this.”

— Jets coach Rex Ryan on Joe Girardi teaching quarterback Mark Sanchez how to slide

NEWSMAKERS: WHO’S MAKING HEADLINES THIS WEEK

Bobby Bowden

The legendary Florida State coach announced his retirement Tuesday, ending an era that included 14 straight seasons finishing in the top five.

Tiger Woods

If you believe Woods, you would think he’s being unfairly hounded. If you believe the Internet/tabloid reports, he’s in a heap of trouble.

Allen Iverson

The guard looks to be on the verge of joining the 76ers for a return engagement. It will sell tickets and probably help out a bad team.

Drew Brees

He and the 11-0 Saints come to town Sunday. The over/under on touchdown passes against the Redskins is three. Sign me up for the over.

Keith Ballard

In apparent frustration the Panthers defenseman smacked his own goaltender, Tomas Vokoun, in the head with his stick. Not the smartest move.

TWT FIVE BEST SEMINOLES PLAYERS OF BOWDEN ERA

1. Charlie Ward — He led Florida State to its first national championship and is the only Heisman Trophy winner to go on to play in the NBA.

2. Chris Weinke — The QB went 32-3 with the Seminoles, won Bowden’s second national title and captured the Heisman.

3. Peter Warrick — He finished with 32 touchdown catches, the most in Florida State history.

4. Deion Sanders — The two-time consensus All-American started becoming “Prime Time” while playing under Bowden.

5. Warrick Dunn — Dunn still holds the program record with 3,959 rushing yards.