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A Conversation With OU Punter Mike Knall

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By JOEY JOHNSTON jjohnston@tampatrib.com

The Tampa Tribune

Published: January 8, 2009

MIAMI - In Oklahoma's galaxy of stars - and there are many for a team that has rolled up 702 points and five consecutive 60-point games - somewhere out near a lonely (coffin) corner, there is the punter.

Does Oklahoma really need one?

If so, Sooners senior Mike Knall, of Scottsdale, Ariz., will be ready as always.

Actually, he has punted in every game - but only once in the Big 12 Championship Game against Missouri. Sixteen of his 51 kicks were downed inside the 20-yard line. He has just four touchbacks and averages 36.4 yards.

He chatted about his season with The Tampa Tribune:

When Oklahoma's offense is rolling, how do you keep your mind in the game?

Sometimes, there's a span of a few hours where I'm not doing anything. I'm always visualizing punting. But with our offense, opportunities can be kind of sparse.

How would you describe Oklahoma's offense?

Jaw-dropping.

Think you'll get a shot in the BCS Championship Game?

I think field position is going to be a big key. Our defense is coming to play. Florida has a great defense. The punters are going to be important. I'd love to nail one and help swing the game in our favor.

What was your highlight this season?

When we played Oklahoma State, there was so much talk about them smacking us in the mouth. They said Dez Bryant was going to take one punt to the house. My first punt was 53 yards, a fair catch. The next one was 51 yards and it pinned them on the 1-yard line. I was pumped.

Do you ever feel like you're not part of the team?

No, the guys respect me. I'm an athlete. People think kickers and punters are weird, but I think I'm pretty normal. Our job is different and we get isolated a lot. But I'm one of the guys.

You played at Scottsdale Community College. Their nickname is the Fighting Artichokes. Can you explain that?

I get that question about once a week. I actually went there because they were 1-9. I thought, "Great, plenty of chances to punt." Then we became conference champs. People make fun of the nickname. They always ask, "Were your colors pink and green?" I just laugh. I'm proud. I'll always be a Fighting Artichoke - and a Sooner.

Are you hoping for an NFL career?

I'd do anything to get a chance at the league - training camp, roster, practice squad, whatever. If it doesn't work out, I've already graduated degree in human relations. Down the line, I want to open a sports bar in Norman. I already have the name picked out - Hang Time.

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