IU Offensive Coordinator Nick Sheridan Opens Up About His Relationship with Michael Penix Jr.

Michael Penix Image: Indiana University Athletics

Written by Juliet Gahan

Flashback to December 2017. The Hoosiers had just  signed a stud quarterback from Tampa, Fl., Michael Penix. Sheridan was Penix’s lead recruiter. The Hoosiers snagged Penix right out from under Tennessee, where Sheridan was previously employed as an offensive assistant. Three years and an ACL injury  later, Penix is still close with Sheridan. 

“Our relationship dates back a few years, we have known each other for a long time. That is what makes coaching special and what makes the game of football special. “ said Sheridan. In October 2018, Penix suffered an ACL injury while playing Penn State. He was out for the remaining of the season after playing in just three games. Sheridan was there to help Penix move past the injury.

Penix came back from the ACL injury and played in just six games as he suffered several injuries in 2019 and put on the shelf with a sternoclavicular joint injury during a November game vs. Northwestern. In those six games the Hoosiers got a taste of what could be if Penix could stay healthy. Penix completed 110-of-160 passes for 1,394 yards and 10 touchdowns and took home two Big Ten Freshman of the Week awards.

“Michael, as well as the other quarterbacks, are like family. I have known them for so long. I love those guys, and Michael is certainly included in that group. It has been great.” The offensive team has a family feeling. This year Sheridan  gets to continue to coach his crew, but in a different way.

In January Sheridan was promoted to Offensive Coordinator/Quarterback coach. There is a new dynamic to his coaching.  Penix  spoke about the change in relationship since Sheridan moved positions.

“The relationship is not that much different. We have always had a strong relationship since I have been here.” Said Penix. Penix mentioned that the main difference between the jobs is that he Sheridan gets to call the plays on the field. 

“Last year, when he moved to tight ends, we still talked a lot. He still knew everything that the quarterbacks had going on, so it has always been a good connection.” Penix said..

The Hoosiers are hoping that Penix, who bulked up to 218 pounds in the offseason, can help execute Sheridan’s offense and lead IU to more wins in the abbreviated 2020 season.