Cookeville football player Gavin Lintz has gone from adding special teams depth to one of Cookeville’s most versatile playmakers heading into his final run with the Cavaliers football program.
Lintz has taken a do-it-all role this season, working as punter, kickoff specialist, tight end, and defensive end. Lintz said it is a big leap from last season, when he played only punter and defensive end.
Lintz said becoming a key element is thanks to what his teammates provide on and off the field.
“It’s a brotherhood,” Lintz said. “Everybody on the team is so closely connected. The coaches really emphasize lots of leadership and everything, connections outside of football, and just turning into men.”
Lintz said that chemistry translates onto the field. During his seven games at tight end this season, Lintz has averaged more than 20 yards per game.
Lintz said when he has to shift to punter, the game slows down and the spotlight narrows squarely on him.
“It’s a lot of focus coming into it because you’re the key,” Lintz said. “Once the ball gets to you, it’s just you, there’s nothing else that impacts it.”
Lintz said he has learned to shift his leadership into focus when handling the specialized pressures of punting. Lintz said wind, hang time, positioning, aim, and the timing of drop-to-contact all factor into each kick.
Friday night will mark Lintz’s final postseason run in a Cookeville uniform. Lintz said he has dreamed of this moment since he first joined the program.
“It’s kind of surreal being a senior, just being on the team for so long,” Lintz said. “It’s definitely something you look forward to, coming in as a freshman, you’re like, man, I’m going to be a senior one day, and I’m going to lead the team.”
Lintz will kick off the postseason run against the Oakland Patriots Friday night. Oakland heads into the playoffs as the defending state champions.