Nov.8 , 2007
– Senior Jon O’Brien has quietly excelled a four-year special teams starter, handling the Lobos’ deep snapping duties since 2004. He has also snapped on field goals and extra points over the past two years. O’Brien has provided outstanding accuracy and consistency on his snaps with good speed as well. He has never had a wild snap in his 44 games at UNM, but has made four tackles and recovered a fumble.
The Tehachapi, Calif. product joined the team as a walk-on in 2003 and honed his skills as standout Martin Lovato’s understudy while redshirting in ’03. O’Brien was placed on scholarship in 2005. prep teammate John Sullivan is a senior kicker at UNM.
D.J. Renteria: Did you have a person you looked to as a role model growing up?
John O’ Brien: I think my parents were definitely my role models growingup. There were three boys in my family and they did a very good job ofraising all three of us as respectful men.
DR: What is the biggest misconception people have about special teams players?
JO: Being a deep snapper you don’t really want to get too muchrecognition because that usually means you are doing something wrong.
DR: If you had to play any other position what would you play?
JO: I would play tight end. I should have played it in high school, butnever did. I have pretty good hands and would make an okay tight end.
DR: If you were stranded on a deserted island what two things must youhave with you?
JO: My bible, which is great reading material, and my X-Box to pass the time.
DR: Any hidden talents?
JO: I can sing pretty well. I am also a pretty good artist . I candraw pretty well.