In the ever-evolving landscape of college football, relationships are key—not just with players, but also when it comes to assembling a top-tier coaching staff. Even during what is often perceived as the off-season, Ole Miss head coach Pete Golding and his team are diligently working to fortify their program. Recent moves have seen the Rebels add two promising coaches from East Carolina University (ECU), signaling a commitment to excellence.
New Additions to the Ole Miss Coaching Staff
This past weekend, Ole Miss welcomed Aaron Auer as a senior offensive analyst and Cam Nichols as an offensive graduate assistant coach. Both coaches are reuniting with John David Baker, who previously guided them at ECU.
Meet Aaron Auer
Aaron Auer enters his ninth year in coaching, bringing a wealth of experience and knowledge to Ole Miss. His journey began at the University of Georgia, where he started as a scout before becoming a student assistant. He quickly climbed the ranks to offensive quality control before making his way to ECU.
During his five seasons in Greenville, Auer served most recently as the senior offensive analyst for the Pirates. In the 2023 season, he coached tight ends under head coach Mike Houston, contributing to a unit that recorded 30 receptions for 180 yards and two touchdowns. Under Auer’s guidance, ECU averaged 277.3 total yards per game, including 113.3 rushing yards.
Auer’s resume includes participation in six bowl games, including prestigious events like the 2017 Rose Bowl and the 2018 Sugar Bowl. His experience with SEC competition will undoubtedly enhance Ole Miss’s offense, as he played a key role on the offensive staff in those 2017 and 2018 Georgia trips to the SEC title games.
Introducing Cam Nichols
Cam Nichols is another addition to the Rebels’ staff. A 2023 graduate of Clemson, Nichols served as a student offensive assistant under Dabo Swinney for three seasons before heading to ECU. Currently pursuing his master’s degree at ECU, Nichols spent two seasons working under John David Baker and will play a vital role in implementing the offense at Ole Miss.
The Return of John David Baker
John David Baker’s return to Ole Miss marks a significant chapter in the Rebels’ offensive evolution. After taking over at ECU when they were ranked 130th offensively, Baker transformed them into a formidable unit that finished last season ranked 24th nationally.
Golding’s decision to bring Baker back makes sense; he was co-offensive coordinator during some of Ole Miss’s most statistically impressive seasons. In 2022 alone, the Rebels shattered school records with an astounding 3,336 rushing yards. Where Ole Miss saw star power unleashed in Quinshon Judkins, who ran for 1,567 yards and 16 scores; Zach Evans, who ran for 936 yards and nine touchdowns; and Jaxson Dart, who added 614 yards and another score.
Baker’s expertise extends beyond rushing; during his tenure at ECU, he oversaw an offense that ranked 16th nationally in passing efficiency. With Texas ties that resonate on the recruiting trail, Baker’s return is poised to yield dividends both on and off the field.
As Ole Miss builds its future, these hires exemplify how relationships and shared experiences can elevate a program. With Auer and Nichols joining forces with Baker and Golding, the Rebels are not just preparing for next season—they’re laying the groundwork for sustained success in college football.