Former OU football offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson officially accepted the head coach position at Indiana University on Tuesday afternoon.

Wilson announced the decision at a press conference at 3 p.m. in Bloomington, Ind.

“I think it’s a natural transition for me,” Wilson said. “I’m from this region, and my wife is from Cincinnati.”

He coached in the Big Ten region with Miami (OH) from 1990-98, and Northwestern from 1999-2001.

Wilson said talks with the Hoosiers began before the Big 12 Championship game Saturday, but he was grateful Indiana backed off during that time to allow him to coach in the game.

“I appreciate the administration for giving me the chance to do my job, because the most critical thing on Saturday night was winning that football game,” he said.

OU head coach Bob Stoops thanked Wilson for his role in helping the Sooners win six of the team’s seven Big 12 Championships in a statement Tuesday.

“[Wilson’s] attention to detail, innovation and ability to develop players to their fullest ability have helped us remain a strong program,” Stoops said. “Kevin, Angie and the entire Wilson family leave with our gratitude for a job well done with the Sooners and our best wishes for continued success with the Hoosiers.”

Stoops will decide whether to allow Wilson to coach in the Fiesta Bowl. Though Wilson is open to it, he said he understands the decision will be made with OU’s best interests in mind.

Wilson signed a seven-year contract worth $1.2 million per year with the Hoosiers. He has worked under Stoops at OU since 2002, and served as offensive coordinator since 2006.

Wilson replaces Bill Lynch, who was fired nine days ago after three consecutive losing seasons.

Stoops will address the process of filling the position and the coaching arrangement for the Fiesta Bowl later this week or the first part of next week.