Marcus Outzen, remembered for his crucial role in the first BCS national championship, succumbs to a rare immune disorder

Marcus Outzen, the former Florida State quarterback known for his leadership during the Seminoles’ 1999 national championship game, has died at the age of 46. His death was announced by his son, Colton, who shared a heartfelt message on social media, paying tribute to his father.

Outzen’s career at Florida State was marked by a sudden rise to prominence after he stepped in for injured starter Chris Weinke in the late 1998 season. His leadership qualities and robust playing style quickly made him a favourite among FSU fans and his teammates. Known affectionately as “The Rooster,” Outzen was renowned not just for his play on the field but also for his vibrant personality and dedication to the team.

His tenure as starting quarterback included leading the Seminoles to a victory against the fourth-ranked Florida Gators, securing his place in FSU lore. Despite falling short in the 1999 Fiesta Bowl, the first-ever BCS national championship game against Tennessee, Outzen’s performances were pivotal in maintaining the team’s competitive spirit.

Beyond his college football career, Outzen ventured into the medical sales industry, where he continued to apply his leadership skills. Residing near Tampa Bay with his wife and children, he remained an admired figure in his community and among his former teammates.

His passing comes as a shock to those who knew him, attributed to complications from hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, a rare disorder that affects the immune system. Johns Hopkins describes the disease as one that prevents the immune system from functioning correctly, which had increasingly impacted his health in recent years.

As the news of his passing spreads, tributes have poured in from former teammates, friends, and fans, all echoing the sentiment of a life marked by passion, commitment, and a spirited personality that lifted those around him. Outzen’s legacy as a Seminole and a community member will be remembered fondly by those whose lives he touched