Bo Nix enjoying work with new offensive coordinator Will Stein

Bo Nix is used to a coaching change. Dating back to his time at Auburn, the veteran quarterback has seen head coaches and even offensive coordinators cycle through. Heading into his second season at Oregon, Nix will have his second offensive coordinator in Will Stein following Kenny Dillingham‘s departure for Arizona State.

The moment Nix got on the phone with Stein, he knew Oregon “had a good one” joining the program. Nix has already been getting along with the new OC throughout spring practice. Stein playing quarterback throughout his life was marked down as a positive.

“I’m excited to have Coach Stein with us,” Nix said. “Just being around him all spring — some practices, some walkthroughs — very knowledgable of the game. He played the position. He knows what to expect. He’s seen a lot like I have. He’s been in a lot of different offenses with verbiage and stuff. So, I’m excited about that, get into game situations with him. See what I’m seeing and also getting his perspective on the sideline and collaborate together and make plans together when it comes to games.”

Stein played for Louisville in college before getting into coaching. He got his first on-the-field coaching role at Lake Travis High School in Austin, TX before moving to UTSA. When Dillingham left Oregon, Dan Lanning quickly hired one of the sport’s best young offensive minds.

The football relationship has continued to grow. Nix has enjoyed seeing Stein even go through some of the quarterback drills himself, demonstrating for the current Oregon players.

Off the field, Nix enjoys hanging out with Stein as well. While it’s player-coach when the pads are on, they can just be buddies when football is not the main point of focus.

“It’s been great,” Nix said. “He’s an easy guy to get along with. Knows a lot of ball. Just a great guy. He’s got a great sense of humor. Serious when he needs to be serious. So, I have just enjoyed picking up on some things from him. He’s very knowledgeable of the game, very smart.

“He’s very talented too as a quarterback so it’s fun to watch him do some drills. Get some visual tendencies. I’m excited to continue to grow in our relationship. Obviously, it’s got to be serious from coach to player but then off the field, it can be a good relationship and continue to grow that.”