There was a new FSU helmet and a lot of new players due to graduation losses as the Seminoles entered the '65 season. Trying a Sunflower gold shell as was used by the Perry Moss coached squad of 1959, Peterson added a one-inch garnet center stripe, and a decal on each side that depicted a garnet outline of the state of Florida that contained the word “STATE” within it in garnet lettering. The change to sleeve stripes that had occurred the year before was maintained which made for a simplified uniform design. With the graduation of Tensi and Biletnikoff there was an expected fall off to a 4-5-1 record in 1965, but Peterson noted that three of the losses were by a total of nine points and thought his team was “the best losing team in the country.” Another loss was Robert Urich, the same Bob Urich who would later become an action star on television. Urich suffered a concussion in the October 23^rd Alabama game that was severe enough to prevent him from playing again. Peterson kept Urich on scholarship in a position where he helped to produce the coach's television show. This led Urich to a Masters Degree in Sports Broadcasting and with the help of former FSU gridder Burt Reynolds, a shot as an actor. Being outclassed only by Alabama and Florida in conjunction with their three very close losses led the coaches to feel there was no need to panic. The freshmen class was strong and there were some good individual performances during the season. Lane Fenner was a strong receiver and there was talent in the line. Future Saints star Del Williams was the leader with Joe Avezzano, destined to become a long-time college and NFL coach after he played center for the Patriots in ’66, and blocking TE and future Bronco Max Wettstein as very dependable players. Hartnell (CA) JC transfer Jim Mankins was an under publicized RB who had some time with the Packers and Falcons. Jack Shinholser was a surprise all star at noseguard and a Playboy Magazine All American, supported by Charles and Frank Pennie. Always the innovator, Peterson unveiled what might be called the precursor to the Tennessee Titans' 2000 NFL Playoff Game "Music City Miracle" as he had one of the Seminole kickoff returns against Kentucky, in a 26-24 losing effort, feature a cross-field screen pass that resulted in a touchdown. Everyone in the program was looking forward to '66.