Arizona State Sun Devils head coach Kenny Dillingham and Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix share a remarkable bond that traces back to their time together at Auburn in 2019. Dillingham was the offensive coordinator when Nix stepped onto the college football stage, and their paths crossed again in 2022 at Oregon. This connection has blossomed into a profound mentorship that continues to inspire both players and fans alike.
### Nix’s Impressive Rookie Season
Fast forward to the present, and Nix has made waves in the NFL, leading the Broncos to a commendable 10-8 record in his rookie season. His statistics are nothing short of impressive: Nix topped all rookies with 3,775 passing yards and 29 touchdowns, boasting a QBR of 56.9. These achievements have solidified his reputation as a rising star in professional football, showcasing the skills that Dillingham recognized in him years ago.
### An Emotional Gesture
Recently, Dillingham shared a touching moment on Instagram that highlighted their enduring relationship. Nix presented Dillingham with a Broncos jersey, accompanied by a heartfelt note expressing his gratitude. The message read: “Coach, Thank you for everything, I would not be where I am today without you! Thanks for believing in me, I appreciate you more than you know!” This gesture not only reflects Nix’s appreciation but also underscores the impact that a coach can have on a player’s career.
### Dillingham’s Heartfelt Response
In response to this emotional gift, Dillingham captioned his post with a simple yet powerful sentiment: “My Why! This Hits Different!” His use of tearful emojis conveyed the depth of his feelings, illustrating how meaningful their relationship has become over the years. Dillingham has consistently expressed admiration for Nix, praising his competitiveness and intelligence during various interviews.
### Praise from Dillingham
On the “Pardon My Take” podcast, Dillingham elaborated on Nix’s qualities, stating, “He has enough dog in him that it makes some people uncomfortable. I have zero doubt he’ll be one of the next great Broncos quarterbacks.” Such high praise from a coach who has witnessed Nix’s growth firsthand speaks volumes about the quarterback’s potential.
### Bittersweet Endings
The 2023 season ended on a bittersweet note for both Dillingham and Nix. Nix’s playoff journey came to a halt with a 31-7 loss to the Buffalo Bills, but it capped off an impressive rookie campaign. Meanwhile, Dillingham guided the Sun Devils to an 11-3 record, clinching the Big 12 Championship and earning a spot in the College Football Playoff. Unfortunately, Arizona State fell short against Texas in the Peach Bowl, but the progress made under Dillingham’s leadership is undeniable.
### Dillingham’s Salary Boost
In recognition of his success, Arizona State coach Kenny Dillingham has received a substantial salary increase. Last season, he earned $4.1 million, but starting this year, his salary has jumped to $5.8 million, a decision approved by the Arizona Board of Regents. His contract now extends through 2029, with an annual raise of $100,000 beginning every January 1.
### Incentives for Success
Dillingham’s new agreement also includes various incentives for achieving milestones. He stands to earn up to an additional $450,000 for securing an 11-win season. At just 34 years old, Dillingham has already led the Sun Devils through a remarkable turnaround, transforming a three-win team in 2023 into a Big 12 Champion in 2024. The team’s journey to the College Football Playoff quarterfinals, narrowly losing to Texas in double overtime, is a testament to Dillingham’s coaching prowess.
### Building a Stronger Roster
Under Dillingham’s guidance, Arizona State’s roster has become increasingly competitive, attracting NFL-level talent and top recruits. Athletic Director Graham Rossini has played a crucial role in ensuring Dillingham’s continued presence with the program by rewarding his key staff members as well. This commitment to building a successful team speaks to the bright future that lies ahead for the Sun Devils.
### The Future Looks Bright
As both Dillingham and Nix continue to carve their paths in the world of football, their stories serve as a reminder of the power of mentorship and the impact of strong coaching. With Dillingham’s leadership and Nix’s talent, the future looks promising for both the Arizona State Sun Devils and the Denver Broncos. Fans can only wait in anticipation to see how their journeys unfold in the coming seasons, as they strive for greatness in the ever-evolving landscape of college and professional football.
