100 Days of Summer: Get to Know No. 59 Matt Hockett

We’ve made it to No. 59 in our summer-long countdown. Next up, an unheralded but extremely important specialist.

How he got to OSU

The all-state punter from Norman High School grew up in Sooner country. In fact, his father holds a long-time administrative position at OU. But that didn’t deter the younger Hockett from accepting a chance to join Oklahoma State as a preferred walk-on. Like many kickers, Hockett was a two-sport prep star in both football and soccer.

What he’s done in Stillwater

Since arriving on campus, Hockett has served as backup punter to Zach Sinor and got his turn at kickoffs before Matt Ammendola claimed kickoff duties early last season. As a redshirt freshman in 2015, Hockett got spot detail at kickoffs and attempted one field goal and one extra point.

Role in 2017

With Ammendola gunning for the place-kicking job vacated by Ben Grogan, Hockett may get another crack at kickoffs. Either way, he could be a rolled ankle away from either punting or kicking in either role. Every team needs a competent backup for their specialists.

Noteworthy stats and highlights

At Norman High School, Hockett was an all-state selection in both soccer and football. He averaged 43.3 yards per punt and 38 of his 45 kickoffs were downed in the opponent’s end zone.