Alex Atkins Breaks Down Offensive Line Prior to Preseason Camp

The 'Noles expect dominant play from the big men up front.

The Florida State Seminoles are primed to start fall camp on August 3, ahead of what is expected to be an exciting year heading into 2023. On Wednesday, FSU held its annual preseason luncheon in Tallahassee, giving a chance for NoleGameday to speak with offensive coordinator Alex Atkins about what the expectations are for fall camp and the overall improvements of the roster. 

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In the world of college football, the game is won not just by brute force but by adaptability and depth. From rotating players based on matchups to cross-training the front five. Offensive coordinator Alex Atkins gave insight into how he leverages versatility to gain an edge.

"We did it last year with, with Darius (Washington) and Jaz (Jazston Turnetine), depending upon the matchup, the week-to-week deal, they both were healthy and there was certain matchups that fit guys better than others, you know? And so that was a good deal we had," Atkins said. "So now we have the same kind of deal with, with KJ (Keiondre Jones) working, Meech (D'Mitri Emmanuel), Casey (Roddick), Jaylen Early, you know, different matchups on the inside that can help."

The ability to play multiple positions has been a major emphasis inside the Dunlap Practice Facility and on Bobby Bowden field. Still, at this stage in development, Atkins says he's getting the newcomers in the right mindset to win.

"Also, multiple guys that play center and also tackle. Bless (Harris), Rob (Robert Scott, Jr.) Darrius (Washington) was also one doing things for us on the edge, (Jeremiah) Byers, who can win games on the edge and inside. So it's fun as they're learning it, but that's beyond what we're about to do right now. Right now, what we're about to do is make sure we can understand the basic elements to go win a football game."

There aren't many question marks regarding the offensive line or the offense in general. There are solid pieces up front who have proven themselves with a willingness to compete; offensive lineman Maurice Smith is a solid piece in the rotation. 

"I mean, you got some guys that are definitely, you know, Maurice Smith. I mean, there's no question he's gonna be the guy. He's always been the guy. He's done a really good job, and I tell him every year I try to replace him, and he always looks for the challenge. I tell him every year, 'I'm looking for somebody to do better than you.' And he says, 'Come on, bring it.' But that's the kind of guy he is. That's why he's always been – that's why he's developing into the player he's become."

Replacing first-team All-ACC lineman Dillan Gibbons will be no easy task. On and off the field, Gibbons' presence projected the highest standard. 

"Right now, we got some guys that's bidding for that spot. I would say the leadership when they speak is Mo; when he speaks, they listen, you know, he's just not going to go out there and give 10,000 speeches and all that kind of stuff. But when he speaks and sees things, he's more that 'one-on-one' relationship based, 'I'm gonna get this behind the scenes.'"

Atkins goes over the wide receiver, running back, and tight end room in his full interview below:

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