Kicker Harrison Butker made his mark in the program’s history with his 53-yard field goal to propel the team to a victory over Georgia last year. Unfortunately, he did not get the chance to attempt a field goal in the team’s recent loss to Virginia. He shared his thoughts on that game and looked ahead to Virginia Tech prior to the team’s Thursday night contest against the Hokies.
Technique: What is it like coming off of a big win against Florida and doing as poorly as the team did against Virginia?
Butker: I mean, stuff happens. We’re just looking forward to Virginia Tech. It was a great win against FSU, and unfortunately we couldn’t pull it out against Virginia. We’re looking forward to Virginia Tech, and it’s going to be a big game; both teams need the win, so it should be a tough fight.
Technique: What’s the dynamic like with the team now that you have to win all three final games for a chance at bowl
competition?
Butker: I think we’re ready for it. I mean, it’s a challenge, but we’re ready and looking forward to these next three games coming up. So, we flush this game away, and we’re going to finish out
the season.
Technique: Is it difficult as
a kicker to watch from the sidelines and wait for your moment on the field?
Butker: I think that’s part of our role as kickers. You’re not going to have that many opportunities, you know, a couple field goals. Against Virginia, I didn’t have any field goals, but I’m just trying to do every kick the best I can. I only have a couple opportunities, so I am trying to maximize those and help the team as much as I can.
Technique: The game wasn’t a complete disaster. Many players were at their season bests. Justin Thomas was at his best for passing, and Clinton Lynch matched last season’s career high of three touchdowns in a game. What do you think were the biggest mistakes made against the Cavs?
Butker: I don’t know, I think that’s a question for the head guy. I think that if we all just focus on our job and do our best, I think we’ll come out and do pretty well. I mean, we have the talent on the team. I think we’re capable of a lot and can hopefully put it together this week.
Technique: A lot of people around campus predicted that the Jackets would win; especially after UVA’s high number of injuries and poor defensive performance so far. Do you think you underestimated the Cavaliers?
Butker: No … they’re a great team; we’ve always had pretty close games with them. Two years ago we barely brought it out. I can’t remember last year, but I think it was close. They’re a good team; you can’t take any team for granted. So no, I don’t think we underestimated them at all.
Technique: Which of the two ACC teams that are left in the schedule are you looking forward to most?
Butker: The next one, Virginia Tech. It’s going to be a big game, Thursday night. So we’re looking forward to it. Hopefully we have a great home crowd, so I am looking forward to it.
Technique: What mistakes does the team need to avoid in order to best Virginia Tech?
Butker: If every position just focuses on their job, I think we’ll be happy with the results. Just do our job and see what happens.