A familiar face will join the Seminoles’ sidelines this upcoming season as Herb Hand, the former UCF offensive line coach, follows UCF head coach Gus Malzahn to Tallahassee, FL. Hand will take on the role of offensive line coach at Florida State, a position he assumed in December.
During Hand’s last three years at UCF, the Knights averaged over 225 rushing yards per game, including a remarkable 248.1 yards per game in 2024, ranking 7th nationally in FBS.
So, what is the key to a successful offensive line—or any successful team? It’s about fostering strong, lasting relationships and bonds.
“This is still about the people you do it with,” Hand said during his introductory press conference, emphasizing the importance of relationships. “It’s ultra-important to coach Norvell, and it’s just as important to me that we create great connections within the team.”
On Tuesday, Hand demonstrated his belief by treating the entire offensive line to dinner as a group, helping to build camaraderie.
Florida State has already secured commitments from four-star lineman Mario Nash Jr., three-star linemen Chavez Thompson and Sean Poret, as well as several transfers: four-star Micah Pettus from Ole Miss, four-star Luke Petitbon from Wake Forest, three-star Adrian Medley from UCF, and three-star Gunnar Hansen from Vanderbilt.
Hand, who was a three-year starter on the offensive line at Hamilton from 1986-89, brings a wealth of experience to Florida State with previous coaching stints at Clemson, Penn State, Auburn, UCF, and Texas.
The only task more challenging than feeding an entire offensive line is covering the bill afterward.
Stay tuned to NoleGameday for more free coverage of Florida State football throughout the offseason.
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