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That kind of bothers me, not only me but for the rest of the specialists." Webster's strong opinions, mixed with his ability to keep things light and his work ethic, make him a good leader of Purdue's kicking group, too. With Griggs and fellow place-kicker Sam McCartney going through struggles in their first seasons a year ago, Webster, the Boilermakers' holder, tried to help them through. It helped, says McCartney. "I get a little bit high-strung and get a little bit tense, but Cody is out there, and he's had that experience. But it's also kind of his nature. He does a good job of calming us all down and being able to joke around," the sophomore said. Webster's glad to be able to impact the Boilermakers however he can, even if he gets only a half dozen plays per game. His biggest payoff, he says, is trotting off the field and being congratulated by the defense trotting on, after he's pinned the opponent deep. But twice last season, he jogged off while the offense jogged back on, after he used his athleticism on fake punts to run for first downs. His scamper early against Ohio State helped set the tone for the Boilers in their near upset. In his final season, he'd like to mix in his two sports, perhaps pitch while punting. "We haven't brought that out yet at Purdue, throwing or anything," he said. "Hopefully I can talk to Coach (Darrell) Hazell." But he knows his main role and is trying to improve. Early in his career, he split punting duties with Wiggs, taking the long kicks while Wiggs hit the short ones. Webster did both last season but feels his placement can be even better, which should better limit return yardage against the Boilermakers. "If coach wants it left, then get it out there because that's where we're schemed to run to," Webster said. "You've got to remember that it's kind of hard for them to block, run and kind of look for the ball. So if I do my job and put it where I know it's going to be, then it will be a lot easier for them. "My junior year was a lot better than my sophomore year and I know my senior year is going to be better than my junior year. So that's definitely good when the game slows down for you." Webster's hoping for an NFL shot after the season but knows that spots are rare. "I think I'm on the right path," he said. "But I know I still have some things to do." j Watch for our NEW PRE-GAME SHOW starting this fall. Download on iTunes 60 • Gold and Black IllustrateD • volume 23, issue 6 GBIprint.com GoldandBlack.com