FSU football: Veteran offensive line unit looks to pave way for Noles

FSU football released its projected depth chart for its highly-anticipated season opening matchup against the LSU Tigers on Sunday, September 3rd.

The offensive line position unit was  a weakness for the Seminoles.

However, the change of performance is in large part to the development of Florida State offensive coordinator/offensive line coach Alex Atkins, assistant offensive line coach Cooper Williams and Senior Offensive Analyst Gabriel Fertitta.

Atkins is entering his fourth season in charge of the offensive line. During the 2022 season, the Seminoles ranked No. 38 in the FBS in sacks allowed per game (1.54).

The projected depth chart suggests the following starting combination of offensive linemen for Florida State:

•LT: Robert Scott Jr., RS Jr.

•LG: Casey Roddick, RS Sr.

•C: Maurice Smith, RS Jr.

•RG: D’Mitri Emmanuel, RS Sr.

•RT: Jeremiah Byers, RS Jr.

Disclaimer: At the right guard position, Emmanuel has an -or- designation with Darius Washington. At the right tackle position, Byers has an -or- designation with Bless Harris.

The starting offensive line combination of Scott Jr., Roddick, Smith, Emmanuel, and Byers has accumulated a total of 60 games started during last season. That veteran experience is invaluable for an offensive unit that is looking to reach new heights in 2023 under the guidance superstar quarterback Jordan Travis.

Coming into the LSU contest, the Seminoles’ offensive line unit will not have to deal with the likes of the Tigers’ star defensive tackle Maason Smith, who is suspended for the season opener for receiving an improper benefit from a 2021 autograph signing.

FSU did not have to see much of Smith during their 2022 matchup after the talented defender suffered a season-ending injury in the first quarter.

Various media suggested last year that the FSU offensive line could not hold up against the likes of LSU’s defensive line. However, the Seminoles did not allow a sack in their contest against the Tigers last season, where Travis had his way offensively, where he completed 20 of his 33 passes for 260 passing yards and two touchdowns.

The sky is the limit for this offense in this year’s matchup as they look to build off their foundation of their terrific offensive line unit.