The LSU Tigers are making headlines as they reportedly target former Florida State Seminoles offensive coordinator Alex Atkins for a position on their coaching staff. This move comes as LSU looks to bolster its offensive strategy and tap into Atkins’ impressive track record, especially given his recent success at Florida State.
Atkins’ Journey at Florida State
For the last three seasons, Atkins has been a key figure at Florida State, serving both as the offensive line coach and the offensive coordinator. His tenure saw significant highs and lows, culminating in a disappointing 2024 season for the Seminoles. In November 2024, it was announced that the team would be undergoing changes at both offensive and defensive coordinator, marking the end of Atkins’ run with the program.
During his time with the Seminoles, Atkins helped the offense flourish. The 2022 and 2023 seasons were particularly noteworthy, with the 2023 Seminoles finishing unbeaten in the regular season and clinching the ACC title. That offense was recognized for its prowess, ranking 54th nationally in total offense with an average of 401.6 yards per game. More impressively, they ranked 18th in scoring offense, averaging 34.6 points per game.
However, the 2024 season presented a stark contrast. Florida State struggled mightily, finishing with a dismal 2-10 record. The offense plummeted to 132nd in total offense, averaging just 270.3 yards per game, and ranked 131st in scoring, with a mere 15.4 points per game. To compound matters, Atkins faced suspension for the first three games of the season due to recruiting violations, further complicating his role.
Atkins’ Coaching Experience
Before his time at Florida State, Atkins built a solid foundation as an offensive assistant at various institutions, including Charlotte, Tulane, and Georgia Southern. His diverse experience across multiple programs has equipped him with a wealth of knowledge and adaptability, making him a valuable asset to any coaching staff.
What Lies Ahead for LSU?
As for the role Atkins would assume at LSU, details remain somewhat unclear. It is confirmed that his position will be on the offensive side of the ball. Currently, offensive coordinator Joe Sloan is set to return, and offensive line coach Brad Davis is entering his fifth season with the Tigers. This suggests that Atkins will be stepping into a new role, distinct from his previous responsibilities at Florida State.
In 2024, the LSU offense ranked 25th nationally in total offense, averaging 431.5 yards per game, and was 47th in scoring offense with an average of 30.5 points per game. While these numbers are respectable, there is always room for improvement. Could Atkins be the key to unlocking even greater potential for the Tigers’ offense?
The Recruiting Edge
One of the standout qualities of Alex Atkins is his reputation as a strong recruiter. His ability to connect with players and families is well-documented, and it appears LSU is keen to leverage this skill. Notably, Atkins played a pivotal role in the recruitment of four-star offensive lineman Solomon Thomas, who recently flipped his commitment from Florida State to LSU for the Class of 2025. This move not only highlights Atkins’ recruiting prowess but also raises hopes for LSU’s future roster.
Atkins’ arrival could signal a new era for the Tigers, where player development and recruitment go hand in hand. The coaching staff is likely optimistic that his experience and connections will help elevate the program, especially in a competitive SEC landscape.
Looking Forward
As the LSU Tigers prepare for the upcoming season, the addition of Alex Atkins could be a game-changer. With a proven track record of offensive success and a knack for recruiting, Atkins has the potential to make a significant impact on the team’s performance. Fans are undoubtedly eager to see how this new chapter unfolds.
The excitement surrounding this potential hiring is palpable. Will Atkins be able to replicate the success he found at Florida State? Can he help LSU take its offense to new heights? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: college football is always full of surprises, and this offseason is shaping up to be no different.
With the right moves and the right mindset, the Tigers could be poised for a breakout season. As fans, we can only hope that the combination of talent, coaching, and strategy will lead to a thrilling year ahead for LSU football.
