The Florida State Seminoles are coming off a 13-1 season, but it looks like the NCAA is about to chop them down to size
The NCAA’s Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) program already have its detractors who say it’s ruining the tradition of ‘amateur competition’. Now, one of college athletics premier programs is facing scrutiny for their NIL dealings, as a recent report says the Florida State football team is being hit with violations regarding the pay-for-play style program.
Trouble In Tallahassee
According to several outlets – most notably Yahoo Sports – Florida State offensive coordinator Alex Atkins, is found to have committed two Level II violations, which include impermissible recruiting activity involving an NIL booster.
Atkins is alleged to have driven a prospect and his parents to a meeting with a member of the school’s NIL collective, Rising Spear.
However, Atkins isn’t the only Seminole staffer facing scrutiny. The report lists multiple, wide-ranging issues with Florida State’s use of its NIL program dating back to 2022. (The NCAA initially adopted the Name, Image, and Likeness policy in late 2021).
Penalties Hit The Program
According to the report, Atkins will receive a three-game suspension to kick off the 2024 regular season and will be given a two-year ‘show-cause’. A show-cause requires schools who hire Atkins to explain the decision to NCAA officials.
However, Atkins is expected to remain on FSU’s staff in his current role. Head coach Mike Norvell recently extended the contracts of his entire coaching staff.
As part of the punishment, Florida State cannot accept assistance from the Rising Spear collective and the collective cannot contribute to the athletic program in any way. However, the collective can still deal with FSU athletes directly.
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