As someone who had his name butchered ENDLESSLY in every local paper as a high-school athlete, I can relate to this. But then again, I also can’t. I’ve seen my name written Jesse Pantusco, Jessie Pantuosco, Jesse Pantousco and even Jessy Pantuosco, but I can’t say I’ve ever gotten the generic “First Lastname” treatment. North Dakota State defensive end Spencer Waege lived that horror when ESPN+ flashed this placeholder graphic during Saturday’s game against Central Arkansas.
Boy did ESPN do this kid dirty. Under normal circumstances, Waege might have another chance or two to get his name out there, but with COVID altering this year’s college football landscape, Saturday’s glorified scrimmage at the Fargodome is the only contest on the Bison’s 2020 schedule. They didn’t even get Waege’s uniform number right—he wears No. 99. Poor guy.
North Dakota State, alma mater of Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz, has become an institution on the FCS circuit, claiming eight of the last nine national championships. Along with helping rebrand Waege as “First Lastname,” Saturday’s game also served as a showcase for sophomore prodigy Trey Lance, who figures to be among the first quarterbacks selected in next year’s draft.
The 20-year-old dual threat lit it up with 42 touchdowns last year (28 passing, 14 rushing) while setting a national record for most passing attempts without an interception (287). The reigning Walter Payton Award Winner (given annually to the top player in FCS) is projected as a likely first-round pick with draft expert Daniel Jeremiah of NFL.com comparing Lance favorably to former Colts Pro Bowler Andrew Luck.
LISTEN NOW on the RADIO.COM App
Follow RADIO.COM Sports
Twitter I Facebook I Instagram