Bowling Green, Kentucky, August 14, 2025
News Summary
WKU football punter Cole Maynard has earned a spot on the Ray Guy Award Preseason Watch List, recognizing him among the top collegiate punters. He is one of only five punters from non-Power Conference schools highlighted for this prestigious honor. Maynard’s standout performance in the previous season included a remarkable average of 42.7 yards per punt, and he was also featured on the Conference USA Preseason Watch List, showcasing his significant contributions to WKU’s football team.
Bowling Green, Kentucky – WKU Punter Cole Maynard Recognized on Ray Guy Award Preseason Watch List
WKU football punter Cole Maynard has been named to the Ray Guy Award Preseason Watch List, as announced by the Augusta Sports Council on August 1, 2025. This award honors the top collegiate punter in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). Maynard is among 15 players selected for the list and is one of only five punters from non-Power Conference schools.
In addition to this prestigious recognition, Maynard was also included in the Conference USA Preseason Watch List. His impressive performance during his first season with WKU in 2024 solidified his reputation within collegiate football.
Maynard’s Impressive Statistics
During the 2024 season, Maynard played a crucial role in WKU’s special teams, serving as the punter in all 14 games. He executed 55 punts for a total of 2,350 yards, averaging an impressive 42.7 yards per punt. Notably, he had nine punts that exceeded 50 yards, with his longest recorded punt reaching 60 yards.
Maynard showcased his accuracy by placing 19 of his punts inside the 20-yard line, providing WKU with advantageous field position throughout the season. His breakout game came against Alabama on August 31, 2024, where he registered a season-high of nine punts.
His exceptional performance during a game against Toledo earned him the title of Conference USA Special Teams Player of the Week on September 23, 2024. In that game, he averaged 50.8 yards per punt, recorded four punts over 50 yards including a notable 57-yarder, and achieved two punts that landed inside the 20-yard line.
Maynard’s Background
Prior to joining WKU, Cole Maynard spent three seasons at North Carolina, where he developed his skills as a punter. His transition to WKU has showcased his talent and adaptability, leading to his current recognition on both the Ray Guy Award and Conference USA watch lists.
Ray Guy Award Selection Process
The candidates for the Ray Guy Award Preseason Watch List are determined based on previous year’s semifinalists, All-American selections, and Preseason All-Conference selections. Nominations for the award will continue throughout the season, with a comprehensive candidate list to be released on November 5, 2025.
The Ray Guy Award committee will select ten semifinalists in mid-November. Subsequently, a voting body made up of FBS sports information directors, media representatives, and former Ray Guy Award winners will vote for the top three finalists in late November. The winner of the award will be revealed live during The Home Depot College Football Awards on ESPN in December 2025.
Upcoming Season
As the 2025 season approaches, WKU football is scheduled to kick off against Sam Houston on August 23, 2025, at Houchens-Smith Stadium. The game will start at 6 p.m. CT and can be viewed on CBS Sports Network.
FAQ
What is the Ray Guy Award?
The Ray Guy Award recognizes the top collegiate punter in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS).
Who is Cole Maynard?
Cole Maynard is a punter for WKU’s football team, recognized for his impressive performance during the 2024 season, where he averaged 42.7 yards per punt.
When will the winner of the Ray Guy Award be announced?
The winner of the Ray Guy Award will be announced live during The Home Depot College Football Awards on ESPN in December 2025.
Key Features Summary of Cole Maynard’s Achievements
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| 2023 Season Games Played | 14 |
| Total Punts | 55 |
| Total Yards Punted | 2,350 |
| Average Yards per Punt | 42.7 |
| Longest Punt | 60 yards |
| Punts over 50 yards | 9 |
| Punts Inside 20-yard Line | 19 |
| Previous School | North Carolina |
| Recognition | Included in Ray Guy Award and Conference USA Preseason Watch List |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
WKU Football Players Earn Spots on C-USA Preseason Watch List
WKU Football Players Shine on Preseason All-Conference USA Team
WKU Football Players Earn Preseason All-Conference Honors
WKU Football Places 11 on Preseason All-Conference USA Team
Additional Resources
- WKU Sports: Cole Maynard Named to Ray Guy Award Preseason Watch List
- Wikipedia: Ray Guy Award
- Kentucky New Era: WKU Football News
- Google Search: WKU Football
- Sports Illustrated: WKU Players Highlighted
- Google News: WKU Football 2025
- Record Courier: WKU Preview
Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER
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