Will FSU OC Alex Atkins get suspended? Exploring the implications of NCAA's NIL-related sanctions on the Seminoles

In a striking move by the NCAA, Florida State University and its offensive coordinator, Alex Atkins, are at the center of a storm of sanctions related to NIL violations.

The governing body has announced a series of penalties against the Seminoles. They have ordered a two-year probation and a range of sanctions to address recruiting violations during the 2022-23 academic calendar.

The NCAA's enforcement staff uncovered two Level II violations involving Alex Atkins. These were alleged impermissible recruiting activity and the facilitation of inappropriate contact between a booster and a transfer prospect.

The violations stem from a spring 2022 recruiting event. There, Alex Atkins allegedly drove the prospect and his parents to a meeting with a prominent FSU NIL collective, Rising Spear member.

In the me­eting, the booster advocate­d for the prospect to join FSU. They also propose­d a NIL deal worth $15,000 monthly.

What made matters worse­ was that Alex Atkins allegedly share­d information that was either wrong or misleading re­garding his understanding and participation in the recruitme­nt violations.

Implications for Alex Atkins and FSU

As a result of the violations, Alex Atkins faces a two-year show cause and a suspension for the first three games of the 2024 regular season.

A show cause means any school looking to hire Atkins must explain the decision to NCAA officials.

While Atkins is expected to remain on FSU's staff, his absence for the initial games of the 2024 season may impact the team's offensive strategies and coordination.

This situation raises questions about how the NCAA's sanctions might impact Atkins' coaching career and the Seminoles' on-field performance.

The fallout from the NCAA's sanctions extends beyond Atkins, affecting the entire FSU football program.

Beyond Atkins, FSU is grappling with two-year probation, scholarship reductions, a fine of $5,000 plus 1 percent of the football budget, and a 5 percent reduction in football scholarships over the probationary period.

Furthermore­, there are limits on official visits and re­cruiting talks. The NCAA punishes unpermitte­d recruiting interactions and incentive­s, sparking doubts about the effective­ness of the prese­nt NIL rules and how they're e­nforced.

FSU's Athletic director Michael Alford said that they are committed to strengthening the culture within the team and will completely comply and cooperate with the NCAA.

“We are pleased to reach closure to this situation and view this as another step in strengthening our culture of compliance at Florida State University. We take all compliance matters very seriously, and our full cooperation with the NCAA on this case is a clear example of that commitment."