Interview: 3-Star 2019 California OT Nathan Peterson Talks Air Force Commitment
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
In February of 2017, Dixon High School left tackle Nathan Peterson was a “scrawny” 6-5, 270-pound, under the radar talent fresh off an emerging sophomore campaign. Although raw, even then one could see the writing on the wall for Peterson as a next level player starting to come into his own. Over the last year and a half, Peterson has worked his butt off emerging as a three-star recruit and a beast in the trenches entering his senior season at 6-5, 305. After a June 16 visit to Colorado for a Falcons camp and a visit, and with seven scholarship offers on the table from San Jose State, Howard, Yale, Harvard, Montana State, California-Davis, and the aforementioned academy, on August 1, Peterson announced his verbal commitment to the Falcons.
In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with Peterson after his declaration to the Falcons to get the inside scoop on how the Air Force coaching staff won him over on the recruiting trail.
Interview
Nathan, congratulations on your commitment to Air Force.
“Thank you.”
What was the recruiting process like with the Falcons coaching staff?
“It was good. I liked it. They kept in constant contact. It never was confusing about where we were in the process, I always knew how they felt about me. I never had to worry about them dropping the offer.”
When did you know Air Force was the right school for you?
“Honestly, my family and I took a trip out there for a camp. I felt at home there. I knew it was the place for me right away.”
What all did you do during your visit?
“It was a regular camp, we did combine stuff, pass pro, and one-on-ones. Since I had an offer, after the camp they took me on a tour and I talked to the coaches.”
When did you verbally commit to the staff?
“About two days ago.”
What was the coaches’ reaction to your commitment?
“I committed to the area recruiter, Coach (Mike) Thiessen (offensive coordinator); he was excited.”
What was that moment like for you seeing your dream of being a college football player becoming a reality with your commitment?
“It felt really good. It felt right. I’m not sure how else to put it. It felt good. I was happy to commit to Air Force.”
How do they see you fitting into their schemes along the offensive line?
“Coach (Steed) Lobotzke, their offensive line coach, talked to me about playing tackle since they are mainly a run-based offense. He sees me being a good player for them.”
When do you take your official to Air Force?
“We have not planned it yet.”
I have a couple of football questions for you. How are your offseason workouts coming along?
“They are coming along great. We are looking really good. I am really impressed with the team. I see us going a long way.”
When did fall ball start?
“We started last week.”
What person goals have you set for this year?
“My goal is to improve. I want to be better than last year, that is the man goal.”
Where all will you line up on the field this year?
“I will be at left tackle and some at nose this year.”
Nathan, thanks for your time today and good luck with the rest of fall camp.
“Thank you.”
Please help keep RecruitingNewsGuru.com a national site aiding in bringing exposure to amazing student-athletes!
If RNG has helped you, a friend, or a family member through an article, video, or stylized interview with our countless hours of free promotion for high school, junior college, and college athletes – please donate. Any amount is appreciated!
Photo credit: Peterson family; Nathan Peterson at the Air Force Academy