FARGO -- It's been a year of learning for North Dakota State sophomore center Josh Colville, who not only found a new position, but also discovered perhaps his biggest fan.
A chance meeting at a tailgating lot before the NDSU and Kansas State game between Colville's parents and the Scott family from Dell Rapids, S.D., led to one of the biggest moments of Damon Scott's 18 years. He got to meet the NDSU offensive line after the Delaware State game two weeks ago.
Yes, those five positions that ordinarily don't get the credit they deserve.
"My son likes the offensive linemen because he says that's where the game is won or lost," said Alan Scott, Damon's father. "I can't say enough of what it meant to him. He was just about brought to tears."
Damon was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis as a 16-year-old, a condition that has its challenges. He is a senior at Dell Rapids High School and has already been accepted for admission to NDSU next year.
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By then, Colville will have a year of experience at center behind him. It's gone well for the most part, with the exception of a couple low snaps in the win at South Dakota State last Saturday. It's the first time he's played the position at any level.
"I'm continuing to work on that every day," Colville said of the shotgun snaps. "I think some people take that for granted, especially the people who have played center their whole life. But for me, I'm learning a new position and that's something I have to focus on."
He was the starting left guard last year as a redshirt freshman. He's taken over for Joe Lund, who graduated but not before winning the Rimington Award, which goes to the best center in the FCS.
Last year, Colville said he relied a lot on Lund for help. This year, he's had to watch more film, further learn opposing defenses and has studied different teams.
It won't get any more intense than Saturday when the Bison host Northern Iowa at Gate City Bank Field at the Fargodome.
"They have a great defense and I expect a great game," Colville said.
He's already done great things off the field. Alan Scott is a NDSU graduate and tries to get to as many Bison games as he can.
"It feels great to help him out," Colville said. "I know it meant a lot to him. He enjoys Bison football, even living in South Dakota. Anything just to make him a little happier."
