2021 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Michael Buetow, DL, North Dakota State
- Name: Michael Buetow
- Height: 6’0”
- Weight: 285 lbs
- Position: DL
- College: North Dakota State University
- Twitter: @mbeets121
- Instagram: @michaelbuetow
What is your major/minor? Did you participate in any other activities or campus organizations other than football?
I am double majoring in Psychology and History Education.
What do your teammates say is your best quality?
My best qualities that my teammates would say I possess are my work ethic, relentless aggression, and willingness to come out on top in every circumstance that comes in my way.
What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team? What scheme and/or position suits your skillset?
My role for this year at North Dakota State University is to use this redshirt year to not only make strides in my personal development as an athlete but also help the team in every way possible to achieve everyone’s goal of going 1-0. A 4-3 or 4-4 defensive suits me the best. I can play a 2i technique, 3 technique, and a 1 or 0 technique at a very high level.
Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?
The best player I have ever played against was Sam Schrauth my Freshman year at Minnesota State University.
Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?
One of my teammates that impresses me the most is Brayden Thomas, a Defensive End at Minnesota State University because he is a relentless high motor football player.
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Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.
A time in my life where I had to overcome struggle was making the decision to transfer to North Dakota State University. I had the privilege to be a three year starter at Mankato and helped lead them to three conference championships and a national championship appearance. Needless to say, I was very comfortable and respected. Deep down inside though I wanted an opportunity to test myself and compete at the next level. It took a lot of hours reflecting with my family and myself to make the right decision, but I truly believed it was in my best interest to utilize my redshirt year at North Dakota State University which gives me an opportunity to continue to develop and improve this year and play my senior year.
If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?
I was a state champion in the shot put my senior year of high school, so Track and Field would probably be the sport I would play. My personal best was 54′ 7.5″ in the shot put.
What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement?
Something I am the most proud of is nurturing a mindset where when I am faced with adversity and struggle… I will preserve with whatever is in my way and come out on top. My biggest achievement thus far was being named all-conference in the NSIC.
Describe one of the most memorable plays of your collegiate career.
My most memorable play of collegiate career was my sophomore year against Tarleton State which was considered to be the toughest team in our region. The second drive of the game I got a critical third down sack, which set the tone for the rest of the game. We ended up winning that game and moving on to the National Semi Finals.
Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?
My favorite athlete is Mike Daniels, Defensive tackle for the Detroit Lions. I love the passion, energy, and ferocity that he possesses in every snap he takes.
Who is your favorite music artist? What gets you pumped before a game?
My favorite music artist is J Cole. My love and excitement for the game is so encompassing that the energy I get from that fuels my passion to be number one in my position.
What is your favorite comfort food?
My favorite comfort food is any type of pasta dish.
Do you have a favorite movie or actor?
My favorite movie is Interstellar
What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies? Any secret talents?
In my spare time I like to study film, hang out with friends, and play the guitar.
Who or what motivates you the most?
What motivates me the most is battling adversity and embracing the process.
Assistant Director of Scouting for the Hula Bowl and long-time writer for NFL Draft Diamonds.