Consistency leading to confidence for Adrian Fox

A lot can change in a year.

Jackson quarterback Adrian Fox is figuring that out as the Indians get set to embark on the 2023 season.

A year ago, Fox was splitting reps at quarterback with Zach Calder.

Now, Fox has the reigns to the offense and with that comes consistent reps and confidence.

“It’s a really big confidence booster,” Fox said. “Getting yanked after making a bad play really hurts your confidence as a quarterback.”

For new Jackson coach Ryan Nesbitt, he knows what he looks for in a quarterback, and Fox checks a lot of those boxes.

“He’s got really good arm talent,” Nesbitt said. “He’s got a live arm and he’s really worked on his craft. He’s spent a lot of time studying and a lot of time with me learning the new offense.”

Fox said he has enjoyed getting to learn from Nesbitt because of his defensive mindset.

“It’s good to consider the defensive side of the ball,” Fox said. “Especially after being coached by (Brent) Eckley who was an offensive mastermind.”

The confidence Fox is gaining by getting consistent reps hasn’t gone unnoticed by Nesbitt.

“If he makes a mistake in practice, he’ll see it, store it and put it away,” Nesbitt said. “He’s a cerebral, intelligent kid. He’ll come back out and the odds of him making the same mistake again are low. He’s continued to get better, his confidence is growing and his relationships with the receivers is growing.”

Fox said Nesbitt has been key in helping him learn from mistakes.

“He’s really helped coach me through it,” Fox said. “He understands that confidence is key as a quarterback.”

As Fox’s confidence continues to grow, so does his teammates.

“We all worked really hard this offseason,” Fox said. “We’re confident in how hard we all worked and the coaching that we’re blessed to receive.”

Fox is not only dealing with new responsibilities on the field, but also off the field as a leader.

“I’m just taking it day-by-day,” Fox said. “I’ll do whatever the team needs.”

Fox and the Indians kickoff the 2023 campaign at 8 p.m. on Friday, August 25, when they travel to take on Edwardsville (Ill).