Oregon
Bo Nix realized a dream going to Auburn, but Oregon prepared him for Broncos’ spotlight
There was always a football field where Bo Nix allowed himself to dream.
Nix watched the games, and then carried his passion into the grass behind his house in South Carolina and Alabama, mimicking the plays, running and throwing, his goals gently coming into focus without him really knowing it.
“It was always Auburn. No matter where our dad was coaching, it was always Auburn. It was us pretending to be Auburn vs. whoever they played the day before,” said Caleb Nix, Bo’s younger brother. “It was an imaginary game.”
As the Nix family watched Bo pose for pictures inside the Pat Bowlen Fieldhouse on Friday, holding an orange jersey, reality clobbered them over the head. The son, the brother, the husband, the kid who once worked as a ball boy at Charleston Southern was a Denver Bronco.
The last time Nix was in Colorado, he and his father spoke at a local church over the summer. Now, their prayers were answered.
“It’s surreal. It’s one of those special moments for him. He grew up playing football, and when you do that, you dream of playing in the NFL. As a dad, you want to see your kids reach their dreams, so now here it is,” father, Patrick Nix, told The Denver Post. “For the longest time, you go through the mock drafts and the speculation; it’s real now.”
Patrick provided the script for his son’s goals through his profession, through old highlights. Dad played quarterback at Auburn from 1992 to ’95, helping the Tigers go 11-0 in 1993. Bo followed, playing for Auburn. If Disney was writing the script, this is where the story would show him getting carried off the field, holding a trophy in The Plains as credits rolled.
Instead, Auburn was a layover, a lesson. What happened there made Bo stronger and turned him into a legend at Oregon, about as far away culturally and geographically from his roots as imaginable.
As such, Nix, drafted 12th overall by the Broncos on Thursday night, arrived in Denver with purpose and focus. For months identified as a cerebral and athletic fit for coach Sean Payton’s offense, Nix is ready to compete for the starting job for a franchise that has been yearning for success since Peyton Manning retired.
“I think experience is one of the best teachers, really in anything. The more you do something, the better you should get at it. Whatever happens, I know that I’m around a great support staff; I’m around great coaches who have been doing this at a high level for a very long time,” Nix said. “I’m going to be able to take it all in, learn as much as I possibly can, grow as much as I possibly can, so I can give that to my teammates, and I can give that to this organization.”
Growing up as QB
Pressure is nothing new for Nix. By the time he reached eighth grade, he was a star waiting for a uniform. He made the varsity team. After his sophomore year, he followed his father to Pinson Valley High School and became the top dual-threat quarterback in the nation. He won back-to-back state titles and was named Alabama Gatorade Player of the Year.
There was no question where he would go. At Auburn, he was embraced, viewed as the Tigers’ version of Tim Tebow. He rallied Auburn to a victory over Oregon in his first game at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. That might have been his most memorable game for Auburn, certainly his most memorable season.
Over the next three years, Nix posted 39 touchdowns and 16 interceptions. He was inconsistent. He was benched. He was hurt. He graduated. And then, in a decision that tested his mental strength, he left. To Eugene, Ore., roughly 2,600 miles away from Auburn — a 40-hour drive that took four days to navigate.
“It’s not about when adversity comes, because it is coming. It’s how you handle it. I was very proud of how he responded. He had a chance to toughen up and mature at Auburn, and when he went to Oregon he was a little bit more mature, more experienced, maybe not as naive as when he first walked into Auburn of how the real world is,” said Patrick, who was joined at Friday’s presser by his wife and Bo’s mother Krista. “He was able to grow a lot, and that was rewarding to see how much he learned from his experience and not be bitter about it.”
Nix was ready for a fresh start. It was time to learn how to become comfortable being uncomfortable. When he went to Auburn, his older sister was already a student there. His family home was a few hours away.
Oregon offered an opportunity to blossom in a new environment. He got married around the same time to Izzy, a former Auburn cheerleader. The easiest thing would have been to stay in the South. Not only was Oregon a different planet, but the Ducks had a five-star recruit on the depth chart, leaving no guarantee Nix would even start.
“I just wanted a chance to play for a championship and compete, and that’s what Oregon presented me with,” Nix said. “The transition was actually very smooth. (Oregon) Coach (Dan) Lanning and (former) Oregon offensive coordinator (Kenny) Dillingham gave me the opportunity, and the players welcomed me with open arms. I was able to have two great years with great teammates, great coaches. We learned a lot, and that got us to where we are today.”
Validating coach’s trust
Even in a new place, Nix found comfort in an old face.
Dillingham coached Nix as a freshman at Auburn, his best in the SEC. Reconnecting changed the trajectory of Nix’s career. Dillingham appreciated Nix’s tools but needed to create a path to production. Dillingham’s work with Nix is why he has earned the quarterback whisperer moniker — he also helped revive Jordan Travis’ career at Florida State.
At Auburn, Nix was maddening, often trying to do too much, leading to ill-advised mistakes and turnovers.
On the surface, it screamed he needed guardrails. Dillingham did the opposite, giving Nix more responsibility. He had the freedom to change plays at the line of scrimmage, morphing into a coach in the huddle. Empowering Nix led him to take ownership of the offense. It became his baby, and he treated it with respect and reverence.
“You want to see an example of that? Turn on the USC game,” said CBS NFL and college football analyst Ryan Harris.
Nix completed 23 passes for 412 yards and four touchdowns. It was not an aberration. His entire 2023 season looks like a video game — 45 touchdowns, three interceptions. He was more accurate than a DNA test, completing an NCAA record 77.4% of his passes.
“When he moved to Oregon, he really mastered pass protections. When he practiced pass protections, they really trained on it, and it became second nature to him,” Dillingham, now the head coach at Arizona State, told The Post. “He became so comfortable. He was just in complete control of the game.”
“Are you kidding me?”
When the Broncos traveled to Eugene for a private workout on March 18, their first for any of the quarterbacks, Nix was more impressive than his film. He was bigger than Payton imagined. Had more arm strength.
Not long after Payton left the session, he uttered the phrase, “Are you kidding me?”
The Broncos ranked Nix on their quarterback board higher than J.J. McCarthy and Michael Penix Jr., per a source with knowledge of the team’s decision-making process. When five went before him, the Broncos could not risk moving back. They took the safe route, selecting Nix at No. 12, hoping he will someday soon be better than the previous 13 starters since Manning.
It’s unfair to compare Nix to Drew Brees, a future Hall of Famer, who won a Super Bowl with Payton in New Orleans. But he boasts similar characteristics that pulled Payton in his direction — negating sacks, ball protection, excellence on third down, leadership when it matters most.
“When you watch him, it’s pretty calming,” Payton said. “He’s very efficient, and it’s not just because of the (underneath throws). You see a ton of NFL throws in their offense. His accuracy, he set an NCAA record. I think the one thing over the years, if you study it closely, guys that get sacked a lot in college tend to get sacked a lot in the NFL. Sometimes, that might be processing. Oftentimes, we’ll look at the offensive line, the ball comes out and it comes out sometimes in funny body positions. He has a quick stroke.”
Payton has no record of developing a rookie quarterback as a head coach — he worked with Quincy Carter and Tony Romo as an assistant in Dallas. And he is known for pushing buttons, for establishing high expectations for the position. Nix must develop a thick skin.
“He’ll be able to take it. The kid’s been through it all. The kid loves to be coached. He loves to learn. He’s obsessed with the game,” Dillingham said. “As long as he’s learning, as long as he’s being (taught), he’ll embrace it. I think it’s a perfect fit. … I truly think it’s a perfect fit for those two guys.”
Dillingham took a special interest in developing Nix the player, while caring for the person. It unlocked his potential.
“His arm strength, his intelligence, he just kept getting better and better,” said former Broncos Pro Bowl safety and Oregon star T.J. Ward. “I watched him at Auburn. And obviously, I watched his games at Oregon. He looked like a completely different guy. He looked like an NFL quarterback.”
From backyard to Broncos
Beyond the pictures, handshakes, and smiles, there was a glimpse Friday of why this just might work.
Dave Logan, 850 KOA’s longtime Broncos gameday voice, put Nix on the spot, asking him to call one of his favorite plays. Nix did not hesitate, setting it up at the goal line like he had a helmet on.
“Zero, triple right tight, Z short, burn Nola, Y pop, Z Fargo,” blurted Nix, who had a different play-caller in each of his five college seasons. “It was play-action. Slip Y into the flat. Fake reverse with Z off the motion. It was one of our touchdowns in the Fiesta Bowl.”
As Logan replayed the scene, he nodded his head. This type of intelligence hints at what Nix might do at the next level.
“You have to have so many different attributes to be successful in the NFL and at the toughest position to play. Eventually, if you are going to become a good player, the moment can’t be too big for you,” Logan said. “He’s got a chance early on for this situation not to be too big.”
It brings us back to the present. Patrick Nix is watching, walking, reflecting.
He knows there is no singular path for success. Sometimes dreams that begin in the backyard require a sharp turn left to be realized.
“Bo is extremely competitive. He’s very dedicated and disciplined, and he wants to be the best version of himself,” Patrick said. “To be somewhere like Denver, I was a John Elway fan growing up. I absolutely loved him. So for Bo to be following in his footsteps by being in Denver, and just knowing the city, knowing the organization, knowing the fan base, you couldn’t have picked a better place. As a dad and his former coach, it’s really incredible.”
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From Mount Baker’s soaring backdrop to the hillside village of Oceanside with its hidden tunnel beach, the Pacific Coast’s best moments often come in small-town America. Each waterfront has its own mix of boardwalks and marina sunsets, whether you’re strolling the sand in Brookings or catching the last light in Fort Bragg. Add in Victorian mansions, occasional Mediterranean-style flourishes, and that storybook, salt-air atmosphere that feels tailor-made for seaside fun. Below are the 6 friendliest towns on the Pacific Coast.
Brookings, Oregon
Although easy to overlook at first, Brookings leaves a lasting impression once visited. Located near the southern tip of Oregon’s coast, just six miles from California, it offers long, sandy beaches ideal for beachcombing, swimming, and relaxing—often with fewer crowds thanks to the area’s “Banana Belt” climate. North of town, Harris Beach State Park provides stunning scenery, diverse trails, and a rocky pocket beach perfect for memorable photos. Chetco Point Park surrounds Macklyn Cove with peaceful oceanfront paths, tide pools, a scenic lookout, and picnic areas nestled among rocks.
Within town, you’ll find bars, grills, a brewery, and a charming selection of shops and galleries, including Manley Art Center & Gallery—ideal for a midday break or relaxing after sunset. During summer, Azalea Park hosts free concerts and features a bandshell, sports facilities, and kids’ play areas. Take a photo at Capella by the Sea, a unique wood-and-stone chapel built by film producer Elmo Williams, then cross the Chetco River to Harbor, another delightful nearby community. At Chetco Brewing Company, the beer is proudly “homegrown,” crafted with ingredients from the property—like Irish moss for clarifying—without pesticides, herbicides, or additives, resulting in a crisp, refreshing taste.
Depoe Bay, Oregon
Perched above the Pacific, Depoe Bay is a charming, compact town famously known as the world’s smallest natural navigable ocean harbor. Marine enthusiasts visit to see this up close, but that’s just part of the appeal. Combining its small-harbor claim with a larger reputation, Depoe Bay is celebrated as the whale-watching capital of the Oregon coast. From March to December, humpbacks, gray whales, and even orcas can be seen along with a variety of sea life. Unlike many locations where whale watching requires tickets, you can often view these giants for free during migration season from the town’s expansive observation deck.
Beyond whale watching, there’s plenty to explore. Visit the Whale Watch Center, or arrange a trip with Dockside Charters and Whale Watching Tours—an ideal gift for nature lovers. The museum at Whale Research EcoExcursions costs less than $5 and is located right at the harbor. Bayfront hotels in Depoe Bay are a popular choice for couples, especially for special occasions like honeymoons. For a rugged shoreline experience, Depoe Bay Scenic Park, next to the iconic Arch Rock Café, provides spots for wading, picnicking, and photography. When it’s time to dine, Gracie’s Sea Hag offers exceptional oceanfront seafood along with a bar and vibrant music scene.
Fort Bragg, California
About 150 miles north of San Francisco, Fort Bragg feels even more remote—in the best way. The area’s loudest sounds are the soothing waves, and the stars are the only bright lights in the night sky. The air is fresh and crisp, and the streets are pleasantly quiet—thanks to the outdoor attractions that steal the spotlight, from quick dips in the ocean to birdwatching and year-round whale-watching. You can explore Noyo Harbor by kayak from the docks, or take a scenic ride on the Skunk Train (or a rail bike) through meadows and redwoods. For a relaxed day, visit the Glass Fire Art Glass Gallery, stroll the trails at Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, then enjoy the sunset at Point Cabrillo Lighthouse, whose beam reaches 15 miles into the sea after dark.
Downtown Fort Bragg offers history walks, wine tastings, pub crawls with local brews, a cooking school, and the Discovery Center featuring a Blue Whale skeleton. Just south, many visitors go to Pomo Bluffs Park, a 25-acre area with benches and interpretive signs along the coastal trail for hiking and biking. Watch fishing boats bring in salmon, Dungeness crab, and abalone, then dine at The Wharf with waterfront views. For more open space, MacKerricher State Park provides wetlands full of birds and seal-watching opportunities, plus nearby Glass Beach, where colorful sea-tumbled glass sparkles like tiny treasures from the ocean.
La Conner, Washington
La Conner is a charming town nestled on a delta near the mouth of the Skagit River, and it’s the oldest town in Skagit County. Its historic downtown showcases beautiful architecture from the early 1860s, a period when pioneers like Alexander Underwood, Michael Sullivan, Sam Calhoun, and A.G. Tillinghast settled in the area shortly after the Civil War. Originally named Swinomish, the town was later renamed by John Conner in honor of his wife, Louisa A., following his purchase of John Hayes’ trading post in 1869. This marked the beginning of the town’s first post office and general store on the west side of the Swinomish Slough. With a proud history and a strong focus on preservation, the entire town is proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Today, La Conner remains a vibrant community that still hosts the Swinomish Tribal Community. It beautifully combines the laid-back charm of a historic fishing village with the lively spirit of a well-loved artists’ colony. It’s also a peaceful wintering spot for graceful swans and Canada geese. Located along the stunning Salish Sea between Seattle and Vancouver, it’s a perfect place to relax and explore. Whether you visit in April for the colorful Tulip Festival or anytime throughout the year, you’ll enjoy browsing charming galleries, chatting with friendly locals, and admiring breathtaking views of Mount Baker reflected in the water. From the cheerful daffodils of March to classic cars and the lively “Brew on the Slough” event in October, La Conner’s welcoming calendar is packed with delightful events. Enjoy its unique boutiques, tasty dining options, and three fascinating museums—making it a wonderful weekend getaway.
Oceanside, Oregon
Oceanside feels wonderfully calming even before you arrive—true to its name, it’s a place that gently reminds you of just how much the ocean influences our world. It offers everything you might hope for: expansive horizon views, a tranquil beach, and a charming oceanfront café where time seems to slow down on purpose. Offshore, the stunning Three Arch Rocks—part of a protected wildlife refuge—anchor the breathtaking scenery. At Maxwell Point, the coastline creates a delightful illusion of distance and scale. During low tide, you can stroll through a tunnel to reach Tunnel Beach, then continue past rocky points to explore a series of secluded coves that feel like a hidden world miles away.
With cozy beach rentals and charming B&Bs, settling into a relaxed rhythm is easy: start your day with breakfast at Blue Agate Cafe, return later for comforting seafood, homemade desserts, and drinks at Roseanna’s Cafe, and wind down beneath the majestic silhouette of the arched rocks overhead. There are so many iconic spots to explore—Symons State Scenic Viewpoint, Lost Boy Beach, and the Short Beach Trailhead—all just a short hike or drive away. And despite its quiet charm, this community remains wonderfully laid-back, nestled into a hillside that feels like a natural amphitheater, offering sweeping views from Oceanside Beach State Recreation Site.
Tofino, British Columbia
Stretching from Washington through Oregon and into California, the U.S. “West Coast” continues north into British Columbia. With geography on its side, Tofino is pure Vancouver Island charisma—wild beaches, moody skies, and the real possibility of spotting black bears. With access via a reasonably priced charter flight or a ferry-and-bus combo, it’s surprising that something this rugged and authentic sits so close to Vancouver’s bustle. Start your day at the beloved Rhino Coffee House, then choose your own pace: fishing, kayaking, hiking, or simply sinking into the sands of Tonquin Park, which stretches from wilder Tonquin Beach near the tip to the calmer shoreline around Chesterman Beach.
Home to about 1,400 residents, including many surfers who share a love for whale-watching, Tofino proudly proclaims itself as the end of the Trans-Canada Highway. It offers a cozy selection of campsites, perfect for any adventure. Whether you’re riding the waves or quietly watching gray and humpback whales, just being here feels special — taking in the cedar-scented sea breeze as eagles soar above. Tofino completely avoids the chain-store scene, making it a truly relaxing retreat. Its mild climate features gentle winters and summers that are rarely too hot. For art lovers, Roy Henry Vickers Gallery highlights regional works, while Wolf in the Fog offers inventive, farm-fresh dishes and cocktails in a warm, inviting setting.
These colorful beachside towns greet you with captivating views, crashing waves, and ocean-fresh air—pairing old-world charm with a distinctly modern maritime culture. As varied as Washington, Oregon, California, and coastal British Columbia, they offer a little something for every kind of traveler. From Depoe Bay’s whale-watching scene to Fort Bragg’s wild coastline and Tofino’s surf-town spirit, spotting the ocean’s “friendly giants” is practically part of the itinerary.
And beyond the water, every slow turn down a quiet street reveals artisan boutiques, local eateries, and weathered cottages with real character. Whether you’re road-tripping the coast, escaping city noise, or overdue for a proper vacation, the blend of local life and wildlife delivers the kind of trip that stays with you. Watch whales from Depoe Bay, kayak Noyo Harbor in Fort Bragg, then head north to Tofino for that far-flung, end-of-the-road feeling—without ever losing sight of the sea.
A change of scenery didn’t change Arizona’s luck on the diamond.
The UA lost 7-2 to unbeaten Oregon on Friday night at the Live Like Lou Las Vegas Classic, dropping to 1-8 on the season.
Arizona finished with five hits, all singles, with three by redshirt freshman Nate Novitske. The Wildcats’ runs came thanks to a dropped fly ball with the bases loaded in the top of the 4th inning.
They only trailed 4-2 at that point but in the bottom of the 5th starter Owen Kramkowski gave up a single and double and left with one out. Reliever Matthew Martinez then allowed a 3-run home run, the third of the night for Oregon.
Kramkowski allowed six runs in 4.1 innings, falling to 0-2.
Arizona did get a strong relief performance from lefty Maclain Roberts, who struck out four in 2.2 innings.
Oregon pitchers combined to strike out 19 UA batters, with freshman Cash Brennan whiffing five times and two others striking out thrice.
The UA will send sophomore righty Smith Bailey to the mound Saturday at 5 p.m. MT against Vanderbilt, which lost its tourney opener 9-4 to UC Irvine. It will be the first meeting with the Commodores since the opening night of the 2021 College World Series.
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