UCF’s offensive line coach, Herb Hand, is poised to reunite with Gus Malzahn at Florida State, according to CBS Sports’ Brandon Marcello. This move marks another collaboration between Hand and Malzahn, following their previous tenures together at Tulsa and Auburn.
Herb Hand, aged 56 and originally from Westmoreland, New York, has accumulated a wealth of experience across various Division I programs. His impressive coaching career includes significant stints at West Virginia, Vanderbilt, Penn State, and Texas. Recently, Hand spent four years with the University of Central Florida (UCF), where he contributed to a solid coaching team under Scott Frost.
Hand’s reputation in the football community is well-regarded, having been named a finalist three times by Football Scoop for the Offensive Line Coach of the Year award. At UCF, his efforts were instrumental in helping the team achieve an average of 447.8 yards of offense and 30.4 points per game, alongside a commendable pass protection grade. According to Pro Football Focus, UCF tied for 13th among 134 FBS teams in pass protection, scoring an 80.5, and ranked 52nd in run blocking with a score of 65.3.
As Herb Hand transitions to Florida State to assume the role of offensive line coach, UCF faces a period of significant change. The Knights will undergo an overhaul of their starting lineup, with key players such as left tackle Amari Kight and left guard Adrian Medley having exhausted their eligibility. Meanwhile, center Caden Kitler and right guard Marcellus Marshall have declared their intentions to enter the transfer portal.
Caden Kitler confirmed via social media on Sunday that Mississippi State is among the possible destinations he’s considering. Team captain Marcellus Marshall has reportedly received offers from several high-profile programs, including Northwestern, San Diego State, Stanford, and Florida State, adding further changes to the team’s makeup.
The need for a thoughtful approach to team management is evident as Scott Frost, the new head coach, seeks to build his staff. Understanding the importance of retaining stability amidst these transitions, Frost has emphasized a deliberate and measured approach in choosing his coaching team. His strategy aims to bridge any divides and minimize potential impacts on the player roster during this evolving phase.
Herb Hand’s move to Florida State reunites him with Gus Malzahn, signaling a pivotal change in his coaching career. As UCF embarks on a period of adjustment, it will fall upon new head coach Scott Frost to steer the program through these transitions, ensuring that both the coaching team and players are aligned with the future vision.
Source: News-journalonline
