Former Florida State quarterback Marcus Outzen, who started in the first BCS national championship game against Tennessee in 1999, died on Tuesday in Tampa, according to Tallahassee Democrat and multiple media reports.
Outzen was 46 years old. According to the Democrat, Outzen suffered from a rare immune deficiency called hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. Outzen, nicknamed the “Rooster” for his red hair and fiery demeanor, was largely a backup during his time in Tallahassee. He replaced injured starter Chris Weinke late in the 1998 season after the future Heisman Trophy winner suffered a neck injury.
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Outzen made spot starts against Wake Forest and Florida, winning both games and leading the Seminoles to the Fiesta Bowl, which was the first national title game of the Bowl Championship Series era. The Volunteers beat the Seminoles 23-16.
According to the National Library of Medicine, “hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a life-threatening, hyper-inflammatory disorder affecting both newborns and adults alike. The disease is characterized by dysregulated immune activity resulting in malignant inflammation and multi-organ failure.” Outzen was diagnosed with HLH last year.
Outzen had 1,074 career passing yards with five touchdowns and six interceptions. He also rushed for 142 yards and four touchdowns.