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Herb Hand is stepping into a pivotal role at Florida State! The highly experienced offensive line coach is bringing his expertise to the Seminoles.

Florida State University is preparing to welcome Herb Hand, a seasoned offensive line coach known for his extensive tenure alongside Gus Malzahn at both Auburn and UCF. This strategic hiring, first reported by 247Sports, signals a significant shift in the program’s offensive strategy.

Hand joined Malzahn at UCF in 2021, where, despite a challenging season in 2024 with a record of 4-8, the team’s rushing attack was formidable, averaging **248.1 yards** per game, ranking seventh in the FBS. Under his guidance, the Knights demonstrated offensive prowess by scoring **30.4 points** per game. Both Hand and Malzahn emphasize a run-heavy approach, aligning with Florida State’s playing philosophy.

Beyond UCF, Hand has a diverse coaching background, including roles as an offensive coordinator at Tulsa and co-offensive coordinator positions at Texas. His impressive resume includes three nominations for Offensive Line Coach of the Year and notable stints with respected coaches like Todd Graham and James Franklin.

Hand’s previous successes include coaching top-tier NFL talents, such as Braden Smith, who earned All-American honors during their time together at Auburn. His extensive experience and proven track record make him a valuable asset for Florida State as they aim to enhance their offensive line and overall team performance.

Florida State’s Game-Changer: Herb Hand Takes Charge of the Offensive Line

### Herb Hand’s Impact on Florida State’s Football Program

Florida State University (FSU) is gearing up for a transformative phase in its football program with the hiring of Herb Hand as the new offensive line coach. With a wealth of experience and an impressive coaching pedigree, Hand’s arrival marks a strategic pivot in the Seminoles’ offensive strategy, looking to enhance both performance and productivity on the field.

### Coaching Background and Expertise

Herb Hand is no stranger to the competitive landscape of college football. He gained notable recognition through his work alongside Gus Malzahn at Auburn and the University of Central Florida (UCF). Here are some key highlights of his coaching career:

– **Successful Tenure at UCF**: In 2021, Hand joined Malzahn at UCF, where he played a crucial role in establishing a robust offensive framework. Despite UCF’s challenging 2024 season, the Knights excelled with an impressive rushing attack, averaging **248.1 rushing yards** per game, ranking seventh in the FBS.
– **Key Offensive Philosophy**: Hand and Malzahn’s run-heavy approach aligns seamlessly with FSU’s playing style. This strategic alignment is expected to strengthen the Seminoles’ ground game, a crucial component in enhancing their overall offensive effectiveness.
– **Rich Coaching History**: Prior to FSU, Hand held various positions including offensive coordinator at Tulsa and co-offensive coordinator roles at Texas. His extensive coaching experience is underscored by three nominations for Offensive Line Coach of the Year.

### Notable Achievements and Player Development

Hand has a demonstrated ability to develop players and cultivate talent. His coaching resume boasts the development of NFL-caliber players, including:

– **Braden Smith**: Under Hand’s mentorship at Auburn, Smith earned All-American honors, showcasing Hand’s capability to elevate player performance to elite levels.

### Pros and Cons of the Hiring Decision

**Pros:**
– **Proven Track Record**: Hand has consistently demonstrated an ability to develop offensive line talent and improve team performance.
– **Alignment with FSU’s Philosophy**: His run-heavy offensive strategy fits well with the Seminoles’ current objectives.
– **NFL Player Experience**: Hand’s history of coaching successful players equips him to mold the next generation of talent.

**Cons:**
– **Record of Recent Performance**: While UCF boasted strong offensive stats, the overall team performance suffered in 2024 with a 4-8 record.
– **Adjustment Period**: Integrating new strategies may require time before noticeable improvements manifest on the field.

### Looking Ahead: Trends and Predictions

As Florida State welcomes Herb Hand, the football community is keenly interested in how his strategies will unfold during the upcoming season. The focus will likely be on bolstering the offensive line’s performance and improving rushing statistics significantly.

Hand’s past success in leveraging a powerful ground game suggests that FSU could see a resurgence in its offensive capabilities, potentially reshaping its competitive edge within the ACC and beyond. The football landscape expects a notable impact from this hiring, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.

For more on Florida State’s sports news and developments, visit FSU Sports.