LSU football targets ex-Florida State OC Alex Atkins in offensive role: report

LSU is targeting former Florida State offensive coordinator Alex Atkins for a role on its football staff, according to a report from The Advocate.

LSU is interested in adding Atkins to its staff as a tight ends coach and run game coordinator, according to the latest reporting.

LSU will return offensive coordinator Joe Sloan and offensive line coach Brad Davis will also be back next season, his fifth with the school.

Atkins was on the Florida State staff for the last three seasons as offensive line coach and offensive coordinator before the program made changes that resulted in his departure.

Florida State’s offense was productive in 2022 and 2023, the latter season culminating in the team’s undefeated regular season campaign and an ACC championship.

The Seminoles ranked 54th nationally in total offense, averaging over 401 total yards per game and placed 18th in scoring, averaging 34.6 points per game.

But the offense declined severely in 2024 as Florida State finished just 2-10, ranking 132nd among 134 FBS teams in total offensive output.

This past season, the team averaged just under 271 yards per game and was third-worst in the country by averaging 15.4 points per game.

Atkins was also suspended for the first three games of the 2024 football season for recruiting violations.

Prior to joining the Seminoles, Atkins was an offensive assistant at Charlotte, Tulane, Georgia Southern, and other FCS-level football programs.

Alex Atkins, a seasoned offensive line coach and coordinator, has been a pivotal figure in college football, renowned for his expertise in developing robust offensive lines and orchestrating dynamic rushing attacks. His coaching journey has spanned several institutions, each benefiting from his strategic acumen and leadership.

Early Life and Playing Career

Born in Chicago, Illinois, Alex Atkins embarked on his football journey at the University of Tennessee at Martin (UT-Martin), where he played as an offensive guard from 2003 to 2006. During his tenure, he earned all-conference honors twice, showcasing his prowess on the field. In his senior year, Atkins played a crucial role in leading the Skyhawks to an Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) championship and their inaugural FCS playoff appearance. The offensive line he anchored was instrumental in producing two 1,000-yard rushers, contributing to a 9-3 season and a national ranking of 12th.

Coaching Career

Atkins transitioned into coaching shortly after his playing days, beginning as a graduate assistant at UT-Martin in 2007, where he worked with the tight ends. The following year, he served as a graduate assistant at Marshall University. In 2009, he took on his first full-time coaching role as the offensive line coach and recruiting coordinator at Itawamba Community College in Mississippi. His leadership contributed to an offense that ranked in the top 25 nationally in total offense in both 2010 and 2011.

In 2012, Atkins joined the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga as the offensive line coach, where he continued to build on his reputation for developing strong offensive units. His next significant role was at Georgia Southern University from 2014 to 2015, where he served as the offensive line coach. During his tenure, the Eagles achieved back-to-back nine-win seasons, with the 2014 team averaging a Division I-best 381.1 rushing yards per game. The following year, they led all FBS schools with an average of 363.0 rushing yards per game.

Atkins further honed his coaching skills at Tulane University from 2016 to 2018, initially as the assistant head coach and offensive line coach, and later adding the role of running game coordinator. Under his guidance, Tulane’s rushing attack improved significantly, ranking 26th nationally in 2016 with an average of 228.1 yards per game, and 20th in 2017 with 231.5 yards per game. In 2018, the Green Wave secured a seven-win season and a victory in the Cure Bowl, with the offense averaging 218.2 rushing yards per game, ranking 23rd nationally.

In 2019, Atkins took on the role of offensive coordinator and offensive line coach at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. He was instrumental in leading the 49ers to a school-record seven wins and their first-ever bowl game appearance. The team led Conference USA in rushing offense and ranked 30th nationally with an average of 203.0 rushing yards per game. The offensive line allowed just 1.62 sacks per game, tied for the 32nd-fewest in the country.

Atkins returned to Florida State University in 2020 as the offensive line coach, a position he held until 2021. In 2022, he was promoted to offensive coordinator and offensive line coach. During his tenure, the Seminoles’ offensive line showed improvement, and the team experienced a resurgence in their offensive performance. However, following a challenging 1-9 season, Atkins, along with defensive coordinator Adam Fuller and wide receivers coach Ron Dugans, was dismissed from his position on November 10, 2024.

Coaching Philosophy and Impact

Throughout his career, Alex Atkins has been recognized for his ability to develop offensive lines that are both formidable and effective in the running game. His coaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of a strong, cohesive offensive line as the foundation for a successful offense. Atkins’ units have consistently ranked among the nation’s best in rushing offense, a testament to his expertise in this area.

Beyond his technical skills, Atkins is known for his leadership and mentorship. Players under his tutelage have often praised his commitment to their development, both on and off the field. His ability to adapt to different programs and elevate their offensive performance underscores his versatility and value as a coach.

Recent Developments

As of January 2025, reports have emerged indicating that Louisiana State University (LSU) is considering Alex Atkins for an offensive role within their coaching staff. This potential move is significant, given Atkins’ track record of success in developing potent rushing offenses and his reputation as a skilled offensive line coach. While official confirmation is pending, the prospect of Atkins joining LSU’s coaching staff has generated considerable interest in the college football community.

Alex Atkins’ coaching career reflects a steadfast dedication to excellence in offensive line play and rushing offense. His strategic insights and leadership have left a lasting impact on every program he has been a part of. As he explores new opportunities, including the potential role at LSU, Atkins’ future in college football remains promising, with his expertise poised to influence the next chapter of his coaching journey.