Derrick Nix, who has served as the associate head coach and receivers coach at Ole Miss in Mississippi for an extended period, has been revealed as the newly appointed offensive coordinator at Auburn University. This information was shared through a post on X, a platform formerly recognized as Twitter. Nix’s move from Ole Miss coincides with the removal of Auburn’s previous offensive coordinator, Philip Montgomery, by head coach Hugh Freeze.
Auburn’s Offensive Challenges
Auburn University’s football team, the Tigers, struggled in passing offense during the previous season, ranking 121st out of 130 FBS teams with an average of only 162.2 yards per game. The overall offensive performance averaged 351 yards and 26 points per game. The team’s challenges were evident in their Music City Bowl matchup against Maryland on December 30, resulting in a 31-13 loss where they managed just 300 yards. In an effort to boost offensive capabilities, the decision to bring in Derrick Nix as the new offensive coordinator is viewed as a strategic move.
Nix’s Contractual Obligations
Notably, Derrick Nix’s contract at Ole Miss included a buyout provision in the event of his departure for a role other than a head coaching position or a coordinator position with primary play-calling responsibilities. This detail becomes noteworthy in the context of recent statements made by Auburn’s head coach, Hugh Freeze. In an ESPN interview, Freeze revealed his intention to take on play-calling responsibilities, a role he has previously undertaken in his coaching career. This alignment with Freeze’s plans adds a layer of significance to Nix’s contractual terms.
Reactions to Nix’s Departure
The Ole Miss social media account on X expressed gratitude to Derrick Nix for his 16 years of service, posting a heartfelt thank-you message. The message, which also featured a statement from Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin, recognized Nix’s impressive tenure. Nix has earned credit for his outstanding work at Ole Miss, particularly for his mentorship of a talented group of receivers, including senior transfer Malik Heath. His impact extends to the development of highly successful running backs, some of whom have gone on to have successful careers in the NFL.
In other college football news, Penn State has appointed Justin Lustig, formerly the associate head coach and special teams coordinator at Vanderbilt, to coach special teams, outside linebackers, and nickelbacks. Lustig played a key role in Vanderbilt achieving a top 50 special teams efficiency rating over the last two seasons. Additionally, Tim Murphy, the Ivy League’s most successful coach from Harvard, has announced his retirement after an illustrious 30-year career. Murphy leaves behind a remarkable record, boasting an unmatched 141 wins in league play and a total of 200 wins with the Crimson.
