Football: Q&A with Blaine Gautier

Joshua Parrott • jparrott@theadvertiser.com • November 13, 2010

With juniors Chris Masson and Brad McGuire hurt, UL sophomore quarterback Blaine Gautier will get his first collegiate start today against Florida Atlantic.

Gautier has also battled injuries this season, but the former Lutcher standout is ready for his opportunity. He has completed 11-of-24 passes for 110 yards with two interceptions and no touchdowns this season and rushed for 71 yards and three scores on 31 carries

Earlier in the week, Gautier spoke with The Daily Advertiser about his chance to finally start for the Ragin’ Cajuns and other issues outside of football.

Question: What are your emotions as you get ready for your first collegiate start?

Answer: It will definitely be exciting. It’s unfortunate that two of our starting quarterbacks had to go down. I just want to come out and play as hard as I can and win this game.

Q: How prepared do you feel you are for this opportunity?

A: The only thing I lack right now is the experience part, but I feel that a whole week of practice will help me. It’s an exciting challenge. FAU has one of the best defenses in the Sun Belt, so it’s going to be a real challenge. But I think that we can prevail.

Q: What have you done to stay patient as a backup for the past few years?

A: It’s been a mental thing. I’ve been sitting back watching Chris and Brad and trying to learn from them. I’ve just been patient and now I’m getting my opportunity.

Q: Who is your role model?

A: I try to be a role model for myself and try to do the right things on the field and in school. My mom and dad, too. They’re two successful people and have helped me grow throughout the years. I’ve just tried to learn from them. I love them so much.

Q: Do you have any unusual hobbies?

A: I’ve been known to sing a little bit. That’s just a hobby. I don’t really take it seriously. Football and school are first for me, but who knows? Maybe one day I could be the next "American Idol."

Q: What do you want to do after your football days are over?

A: I definitely want to be a coach. High school, anywhere I could go and be a coach and teach young people like I was taught. Maybe someday I could be an athletic director. I’m just going to continue to press on and see what happens.