In a significant boost to their struggling offense, Florida State has secured the commitment of Vanderbilt offensive tackle transfer Gunnar Hansen. The 6’5″, 325-pound lineman started 37 games over three years for the Commodores and is expected to bring much-needed stability to the Seminoles’ offensive line.
Florida State’s offense was abysmal in the 2024 season, ranking 132nd in total offense out of 133 FBS teams. The offensive line, in particular, was a major liability, prompting head coach Mike Norvell to make significant changes. Norvell fired several assistant coaches, including offensive coordinator/offensive line coach Alex Atkins, who was criticized for his inability to develop homegrown talent and over-reliance on the transfer portal.
To address these issues, Norvell brought in UCF head coach Gus Malzahn as the new offensive coordinator. Malzahn, a seasoned coach with a proven track record, was tasked with revitalizing the Seminoles’ offense. Malzahn, in turn, hired UCF offensive line coach Herb Hand, who has a reputation for developing top-notch linemen.
The addition of Gunnar Hansen is a significant coup for Hand and the Seminoles. Hansen’s experience and size will undoubtedly bolster the offensive line, providing a much-needed anchor for the unit. His commitment is a testament to the recruiting prowess of Hand and Malzahn, who are working tirelessly to revamp the Seminoles’ offense.
While Hansen’s transfer is a major boost, it’s just the beginning of the rebuilding process. Florida State still needs to address other positional needs, particularly at quarterback and wide receiver. However, with Hansen on board, the Seminoles have taken a significant step towards revitalizing their offense.
As the 2025 season approaches, Florida State fans can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that their team is taking concrete steps to address its offensive woes. With Gunnar Hansen leading the charge, the Seminoles are poised to make significant strides in the coming year.
