In a recent interview with SportsCenter, Michael Penix Jr. expressed his admiration for Coach Kalen DeBoer and the impact he had on his football career. Penix, who transferred from Indiana to Washington to play under DeBoer's guidance, attributed his success to the trust and support he received from his coach.

Penix's journey with DeBoer began in 2019 when the talented quarterback joined Indiana and quickly formed a strong connection with the coach. Penix recalled feeling empowered every time he had the ball in his hands, thanks to DeBoer's belief in his abilities.

The duo's time together at Indiana was short-lived, as DeBoer moved on to become the head coach of Fresno State. However, the profound impact he had on Penix's game remained. Determined to experience that level of support and freedom on the field again, Penix decided to transfer to Washington following DeBoer's appointment as the Huskies' head coach.

The decision has proved to be a perfect match for both Penix and Washington. The Florida native's outstanding performance has earned him a spot as a Heisman finalist, with impressive stats of 4,218 passing yards and 33 touchdowns this season. Meanwhile, the Huskies are undefeated and have secured a spot in the College Football Playoff.

Reflecting on his journey, Penix acknowledged the challenges he faced, including battling injuries during his time at Indiana. He credited his perseverance, faith, and the unwavering support from those around him for helping him overcome those setbacks.

The quarterback expressed his gratitude for having a coach like DeBoer in his corner, emphasizing the rigorous preparation he receives, which allows him to play with a sense of freedom and joy on the field.

With being a Heisman finalist being a remarkable achievement for Penix, considering his adversity-filled journey, his sentiments about DeBoer and their successful partnership only highlight the invaluable role a coach can play in an athlete's career.

As the Heisman winner's announcement looms, all eyes will be on Penix and his fellow finalists - Jayden Daniels from LSU, Marvin Harrison Jr. from Ohio State, and Bo Nix from Oregon. Regardless of the outcome, Penix's dedication, perseverance, and the influence of Coach DeBoer have undeniably shaped a remarkable chapter in his football career.