Doug Nussmeier discusses decision to turn down head coaching gig
By Nick Cole
Published:
Florida offensive coordinator Doug Nussmeier is working to find a new quarterback for the Gators during spring practice.
But things could look very different for the Gators had he made a different decision back in January.
Nussmeier interviewed for the head coaching job at Southern Miss, and was considered to be the leading candidate for a period of time during the coaching carousel this offseason.
After some deliberation, Nussmeier made the rare decision to forgo a FBS head coaching job for the chance to remain a coordinator under his friend Jim McElwain.
According to SEC Country’s Zach Abolverdi, Nussmeier discussed his decision with the media for the first time on Friday.
“Well, this is a special place,” Nussmeier said of Florida. “My family and I feel very blessed and fortunate to be here. There is not a day that goes by that we don’t feel fortunate to be a part of such a great program with great tradition. It’s an honor to walk out here every day and be the offensive coordinator.
“You know, Southern Miss was an opportunity that presented itself. I just felt so good about what we were starting to develop here. We’re still a ways away, but felt really good about our situation here and the things we’re going to be able to accomplish over time.”
Southern Miss hired former Alcorn State head coach Jay Hopson instead, and the Golden Eagles are reportedly paying him $500,000 per season plus incentives.
That base salary matches what Nussmeier was reportedly paid to be the Gators offensive coordinator in 2015.
Nick Cole is a former print journalist with several years of experience covering the SEC. Born and raised in SEC country, he has taken in the game-day experience at all 14 stadiums.
