Virginia Tech football: 23 days til kickoff with a look back at Nic Schmitt

Today is August 8, 2019, which means we are officially just 23 days away from the Virginia Tech Hokies opening the college football season at Boston College. Yesterday, we looked back at Larry Austin, a cornerback for the Hokies from 1997-2001. For No. 23, we honor Beamerball with a look back at Nic Schmitt, who kicked and punted for the Hokies during his career.

Schmitt arrived at Virginia Tech in 2002 from local powerhouse Salem High School. Schmitt was an all-state kicker during his time with the Spartans. Schmitt was also a solid defensive back and receiver during his high-school career.

Schmitt was planning on redshirting his first year. While he dressed for the first three games, an injury to Carter Warley forced Schmitt into action at kicker. He attempted six field goals that season, making just two. He connected on all 14 of his PATs. Overall, he played in four games as a true freshman. Schmitt showed how powerful his leg was on his kickoffs that season and was also a standout in the weight room, to the surprise of no one.

Schmitt did redshirt in 2003. He worked on punting that season, and was outstanding in the spring game. Schmitt had five punts for an average of 52.6 yards per punt in the spring game. He also earned Super Iron Hokie honors for his work in the weight room.

In 2004, Schmitt again backed up Vinnie Burns at punter. It was 2005 when he finally took over punting duties. He punted 52 times for 2,244 yards, for an average of 43.2 yards per attempt. He played in every game for the Hokies and became a secret weapon for Bud Foster’s defense with his powerful leg and excellent hang time.

As a senior in 2006, Schmitt again played in every game. He averaged over 42 yards per punt, again providing outstanding hang time on his punts. Schmitt was also adept at pinning opponents inside of their own 20-yard line.

Schmitt had a solid career for the Hokies. He became an outstanding punter once he finally received his chance. He was an integral part of both the 2005 and 2006 teams. He was also a standout in the weight room each year on campus, earning Super Iron Hokies honors every year.

Schmitt is one of the more memorable Hokies in recent years because of his sheer size, which was unique for a punter or kicker.