BGSU football’s 26-7 victory over Lafayette on Thursday night served as the first win of the Eddie George era.
However, it was also the breakout game for redshirt freshman running back Cameron Pettaway.
He was electric in the kick return game, racking up 153 yards on two returns, including a 98-yard touchdown on the first play of the game.
“I felt the energy around the stadium, and we had a good vibe. I knew as soon as we got that ball and chose to receive the kick, I knew that I was going to take it home,” Pettaway said postgame. “Through my head, I wasn’t thinking too much, just run and don’t get tackled, I guess.”
The play served as a tone setter for the Orange and Brown, sending over 19,000 fans into a frenzy, including his parents.
“My dad, first thing he said, ‘I beat you down the stands.’ He said he beat me to the end zone,” Pettaway said. “They’re super excited for me. They couldn’t stop talking about it, and they’re so happy for me.”
The touchdown was the first touch of Pettaway’s collegiate career.
“It was good to see that kickoff return, first touch of his entire career. How about that? A 98-yard touchdown,” George said. “It’s amazing. I’m happy for the kid and happy for us.”
The Falcons have now started the season with kickoff return touchdowns on the first play of the campaign in back-to-back years.
“I was trying to keep the tradition going,” Pettaway joked.
The Farmington Hills, Michigan, native nearly returned another kickoff for a touchdown later in the game, gaining over 50 yards.
After not appearing in any games and redshirting last season, Pettaway has embraced the role of being a dynamic special teams threat.
“Last year, I didn’t really get much playing time. So, I just wanted to work anyway on the field I could. So, this year, three core guy, and I just try to do as much as I can to help my team, it doesn’t even have to be on offense.”
The 5-foot-10 tailback and returner has made strides all throughout camp, leading to his performance on special teams in the first game.
“Cam Pettaway has really come on during this game. We watch him grow every single day, not just as a running back, but in special forces. I think he downed the ball at the one-yard line tonight,” George said. “He was just a special force demon, and that’s what’s needed.”
Pettaway also contributed in the run game, rushing the ball eight times for 35 yards.
The departure of numerous upperclassmen running backs after last season has opened the door for new faces, including three redshirt freshman tailbacks in a deep position room.
“It was a big opportunity. Last year, we lost a lot of guys that opened up a lot of opportunities for us younger guys,” Pettaway said. “With them being gone, it just gives us extra reps.”
