DJ Durkin raves about Derrick Nix’s play-calling skills as offensive coordinator

On Saturday, Auburn took the field for the second time with DJ Durkin as its interim coach. The Tigers looked spectacular, dominating a subpar Mercer squad in 62-17 fashion. After the game, Durkin raved about Auburn offensive coordinator Derrick Nix.

“I’m so happy for Derrick Nix. Derrick Nix is a great football coach,” Durkin said. “He’s a great person, and that’s a guy taking advantage of his opportunity. He got an opportunity to call plays, and I think we’ve all seen what he’s done here in two games.

“Could not be happier. Tremendous respect for him. I consider him a great friend. We’ve worked together more than just here, and I think he’s tremendous. He’s shown what he’s capable of. He’s done a great job with that side of the ball.”

Durkin was named Auburn’s interim coach after the school fired head coach Hugh Freeze following the Tigers’ loss to Kentucky in Week 10. In Durkin’s debut as interim coach, he nearly led Auburn to an upset win over Vanderbilt, ultimately falling 45-38 in overtime.

In the loss, Nix’s offense totaled 563 yards, Auburn’s most in an SEC game since 2019. Moreover, it’s the most yards of offense the Tigers have produced against a ranked foe since 2016.

Following the loss, Auburn’s staff ultimately decided to redshirt starting quarterback Ashton Daniels to preserve a season of eligibility for him. In turn, Auburn’s starting spot behind center was up for grabs between Jackson Arnold and true freshman Deuce Knight.

Knight secured the role and shined in his first career start Saturday. Admittedly, Auburn was facing inferior competition. Nonetheless, Knight’s performance can’t be ignored.

The former five-star prospect completed 15-of-his-20 pass attempts for 239 yards and two touchdowns, without throwing an interception. Additionally, Knight exploded for 162 rushing yards and four touchdowns on just nine carries.

None of it would’ve been possible without Derrick Nix. Nix is in his second season as Auburn’s offensive coordinator, but was elevated to primary play-caller after Freeze was fired.

With Nix calling the shots on offense, Auburn is hitting its stride at the perfect time. On Saturday, the Tigers will square off against rival Alabama in the Iron Bowl, with a chance to spoil the Crimson Tide’s College Football Playoff hopes. The game will kick off at 6:30 p.m. CT and air live on ABC.