Shiyazh Pete was a coveted offensive tackle in the transfer portal. His decision to commit to Kentucky on the final day of the winter transfer window was met with fanfare. When Pete first arrived in Lexington, we quickly learned there’s much more to the man behind the facemask.
A giant among giants, Pete towers over his peers at 6-foot-8, 322 pounds. It’s not the only thing that sets him apart.
In the spring, the Kentucky newcomers were introduced to the media. Pete’s prose is unlike his predecessors. That was clear when he was asked about his offensive line coach, Eric Wolford.
“He lives up to his name, the Wolf,” said Pete. “He’s cunning, he’s keen, he’s pretty sharp. I like that about him.”
My first thought after hearing that: “I need to spend more time talking to that guy?” That’s exactly what Kentucky Sports Radio did ahead of the July Fourth holiday weekend.
Pete has impressive credentials as an All-Conference left tackle for a 10-win team at New Mexico State, arguably the best in that program’s history. While most fans will be focused on how well he stacks up against SEC opponents, that’s just a fraction of what he’s bringing to the Big Blue Wall.
He grew up as a self-proclaimed nerd in Montana. The son of a Captain in the U.S. Army, he spent his formative years living in the Navajo Nation. He is Diné, which translates to “the people.” Pete proudly wears his braid while adding new hobbies. Pete can quickly complete a Rubik’s Cube and dabbles in the didgeridoo. This curious cat learns new about new topics, typically by watching a movie, then dives in headfirst. That is why we spent five minutes talking about Napoleon Bonaparte.
Pete went from playing on a high school football team with 11 players to one of the worst programs in the FBS, one that eventually played the role of David and slayed Goliath at Jordan-Hare Stadium. Ahead of his final college football season, he’s grateful for the opportunity to showcase his skills in the SEC. What does he envision in his final college football performance?
“Napoleon.”
Enjoy this candid conversation before Shiyazh Pete conquers the SEC at Kentucky.
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