Mike Norvell explains how movement along offensive line created 'a mixed bag' during scrimmage

Offensive line is not a recent strength of the Florida State football program. Of course, Mike Norvell is finally trying to turn the unit around in year three. But in the first scrimmage of the fall, the big fellas up front are still experiencing some positional shifting and the growing pains that come along with that, according to the head coach.

Norvel expressed after that practice scrimmage that the line is still trying to find its footing. Meanwhile, the coaching staff is puzzling themselves over where to slot each player and experimenting with which combinations work best. Here was his update on the group following their first scrimmage:

“Especially talking about the guys up front, I mean it was kind of a mixed bag in a lot of sense. You know, moving guys around, trying to look at different combinations. I mean it was…some uncomfortable moments first. Especially probably some of the newcomers, or some of the younger guys on the O-line. But, you know, I think all that work is there to benefit them.”

Still plenty of time to iron out the details along the line. However, the experimentation along the offensive line meant a lot of opportunity to pounce for the linemen on the other side of the ball. Per Norvell, the D-line was excellent. Also a place where FSU is typically very talented, even in their recent down years.

“You know, I thought the defensive line was aggressive. I saw Jarrett Jackson getting in to make some plays. You know, Jared Verse continues to flash and showed some ability. What I love is, you know, you see the strength and physicality, but I love the effort that he plays with. I mean, when you see guys that are playing with that relentless mindset — I mean, it’s definitely encouraging. And it’s something that, you know, as you watch it, it inspires others. Like I said, I thought our defensive line did a good job tonight. We were able to create some negative plays.”

Mike Norvell then cautioned that this is only one scrimmage and he hasn’t really had a chance to sit down and evaluate the performances play by play. Perhaps new revelations emerge once he does.

“But, you know, I’ll be able to get a better sense of that just going back and watching it with a play-in, play-out basis.”