NFL DraftProspect Interviews

2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Cody Mauch, OT, North Dakota State

Cody Mauch is garnering the eyes of many NFL scouts as the next great lineman to come out of North Dakota State. He recently sat down with NFL Draft Diamonds writer Jimmy Williams.
  • Name: Cody Mauch
  • Height: 6’6”
  • Weight: 303 lbs.
  • Position: OT
  • College: North Dakota State University
  • Twitter: CodyTud
  • Instagram: codymauch

Talk about your experience as a student. What is your major/minor? Did you participate in any other activities or campus organizations other than football?
My major is in Agricultural Engineering, and I’ve minored in Crop and Weed Science. With my teammates, I have volunteered in a few community service projects whether it be doing clean up at an old folks home or reading to kids at some of the local schools.

What do your teammates say is your best quality?
I think my teammates would say that I am good at lightening up the mood and keeping morale high. I’m a very positive person.

What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team? What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?
I’m now one of the older guys on our team, and I’ve developed the role of a leader. I try to make myself very approachable for younger players and help them along when I can.

I’ve started at both RT and LT during my time on the OL. Although, I think I’m most comfortable on the left side. I pride myself on my athleticism and my ability to get down field and block at the 2nd level. I think the gap scheme fits me well.

Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?
One of the players that I remember really studying on film was Jared Brinkman who played DL for UNI. He was a stud who was very strong and athletic. He brought a great amount of energy on the field.

Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?
The guy that really impresses me the most is Hunter Luepke. He’s a do-it-all kind of player who plays everything from RB, FB, TE and H-back. He has such quiet reserve off the field, but when he steps on the field, he is so explosive and fun to watch.

Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.
What comes to mind is my early days at NDSU. Coming into that summer camp, I was a 220 lb freshman who was planning to play TE. It took some time to find the right position for me on the field, moving me from DE to TE and then finally to OL. At 220, I knew I could take on more weight. It just took time for me to consistently put on a few pounds every week. I listened to our trainers and nutritionists, staying patient. I finally got myself consistently into the mold of an OL. I was able to own up to it and earn a starting role.

If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?
I’d probably say baseball. I loved playing baseball and basketball when I was younger. I was even a decent javelin thrower in school. Ultimately, I knew that football was going to take me places. So, that’s why I stuck with it.

What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement?
I came in as a walk-on and earned a scholarship after a few years. Being able to prove that I belong is something that I’m proud of. As far as achievements, I have won 4 National Championships during my time here. That is far better than any individual achievement that I can ever have.

Describe one of the most memorable plays of your collegiate career.
During the 2019 season, we were playing against South Dakota State, and it was 4th and one. We were tied in the 4th quarter with only a few minutes left in regulation. We had been practicing a certain package for weeks, preparing for the proper moment. I came in as an extra lineman (or TE). It was a power stretch play. Not only did we get the one yard that we needed, but we busted it for a 71 yard touchdown run and the game winning score.

Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?
I’m a fan of Minnesota sports, growing up only a few miles away. I’m a big fan of the Twins. Luis Arraez is my favorite athlete. Taylor Lewan is a great football player that I follow. He has a podcast that I like listening to. He’s a funny guy.

Who is your favorite music artist? What gets you pumped before a game?
My favorite artist is Hardy. I may get made fun of for it, but I also like listening to Taylor Swift.

What is your favorite comfort food?
Casey’s is a gas station and convenience store in Fargo, ND. I love getting their breakfast pizza with eggs, bacon and sausage.

Do you have a favorite movie, TV show or actor?
My favorite movie is Goodfellas, and my favorite TV show is Sopranos.

What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies? Any secret talents?
One of the things that I do out here is hunt. It’s fun to take my dog out with me when I go pheasant hunting. Another thing that I like to do is play disc golf.

Why do you play football? Who or what motivates you the most?
The reason that I play is that it’s a kid’s game and a fun sport to play. One of my biggest motivators is my teammates. They know that I’ll do anything for them, and ultimately have the will to win.

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