Nick Puetz will start at left guard for the Kansas State football team on Saturday. That’s why he made an appearance at the Wildcats’ weekly press conference on Tuesday, and that’s why his blocking abilities are suddenly a topic of interest.
But that’s not why he has an interesting story to tell.
Puetz, a junior from Salina, took a very unusual route to K-State. He broke his right fibula while screwing around in gym class as a high school senior, and received no Division I scholarship offers. So he went to Coffeyville junior college. After two impressive seasons, he transferred to Wyoming (as pictured above), where he was on track to start on the Cowboys’ offensive line right away. But after completing spring practices, he decided to transfer to K-State as a walk-on.
That meant he had to sit out the season, and wait another year for his dream of playing Division I football to become reality. That was difficult, but deep down he has always wanted to play for K-State. Saturday will be a big moment for him.
First off, how are you handling all this?
I’m doing great actually. Thanks for asking. I’m just ready for this week, ready to play. I’m excited and I’m doing well.
What is your mindset heading into your fast start?
Looking to make my first start. I’m pretty excited about that. I’m going to do what I can and do my best. I’ve been thinking about this day ever since I was probably about 8 years old growing up in Salina, Kansas, so I don’t really know what to expect. I’m a little nervous, but I think that’s probably normal.
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