Alex Atkins may not be on the sidelines for Florida State football’s seasonal opener against Georgia Tech at the Aer Lingus College Football Classic, but he is still in good spirits. He will travel with the team to Dublin, Ireland.
The offensive coordinator and offensive line coach jokingly said that he would likely watch the ACC matchup at a local pub somewhere in Dublin as he begins his three-game suspension.
Atkins received a suspension after violating NCAA rules dating back to the spring of 2022. The NCAA sanctioned the program for recruiting violations.
He addressed his suspension after Monday’s practice, expecting everything to run normally despite his absence.
“Our job, as coaches, is to get prepared and make sure they get the information,” Atkins said. “They should be able to handle it as old as they are. “
Atkins also mentioned senior center Maurice Smith as a prime example of senior leadership and how he carries himself. He is not worried about the O-line while he is gone as they return three senior starters from last season, including left tackle Darius Washington and Smith.
Maurice was here before I got here,” Atkins said. “If he can’t handle it, I don’t know who can. I expect the guys to show up, be who they are, and be what they have been all camp.”
Alex Atkins’ relationship with Gabe Fertitta
With the recent NCAA rule change that allows analysts to instruct athletes, Gabe Fertitta, FSU’s offensive analyst, will take over Atkins’ role while he serves his suspension.
Atkins has a building relationship with Fertitta dating back to 2022. He is impressed with how he views the game and puts plays together.
“That’s the good thing about our relationship,” Atkins said.
“Some coaches don’t want accountability. You want your friend in there. He’s a friend of mine. Also, with the accountability going around, he makes sure…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/alex-atkins-expects-fsu-football-205454244.html
Author : Tallahassee Democrat
Publish date : 2024-08-19 20:54:54
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