Where Did Pat McAfee Play College Football?

By Sarah Miller · March 1, 2053

Pat McAfee played college football at West Virginia University, where he was the starting punter for the Mountaineers from 2005 to 2008.

Pat McAfee's College Football Career Overview

Patrick McAfee, widely recognized for his dynamic personality and multifaceted career in sports media, first gained national attention as a standout punter at West Virginia University (WVU). From 2005 to 2008, McAfee played for the West Virginia Mountaineers, quickly establishing himself as one of the top special teams players in college football.

His combination of power, accuracy, and consistency made him a key contributor during some of the most successful seasons in Mountaineer football history. McAfee’s performance earned him numerous accolades and laid the foundation for his eventual entry into the NFL.

Key Achievements at West Virginia University

During his tenure with the Mountaineers, Pat McAfee achieved several milestones that solidified his legacy in WVU athletics:

Named First-Team All-American by multiple outlets in 2007
Finalist for the Ray Guy Award, honoring the nation's top punter
Two-time First-Team All-Big East selection (2006, 2007)
Contributed to back-to-back 11-win seasons in 2006 and 2007
Set school records for gross punting average and net yardage

Notable Season Highlights

McAfee’s junior year in 2007 was particularly dominant. He averaged over 44 yards per punt and consistently flipped field position, earning widespread recognition as one of the best punters in the country. His strong performances helped West Virginia secure major bowl appearances, including victories in the Gator Bowl and Fiesta Bowl.

Season	Games Played	Punts	Total Yards	Avg Punt (yards)	Longest Punt	Net Average
2005	12	57	2,491	43.7	63	37.2
2006	13	68	3,014	44.3	67	38.1
2007	12	63	2,838	45.0	64	39.4
2008	12	56	2,449	43.7	62	37.8

Table data source:1, 2

The table above shows Pat McAfee's season-by-season statistical progression at West Virginia. His peak performance came in 2007, when he recorded a career-high 45.0-yard average and a long punt of 67 yards. Consistently averaging over 43.7 yards per punt throughout his college career highlights his reliability and technical skill.

McAfee also demonstrated excellent field-position control, with net averages exceeding 37 yards each season—evidence of his ability to limit return gains and support his team defensively.

NFL Draft and Professional Transition

After completing his senior season in 2008, McAfee entered the 2009 NFL Draft. He was selected in the seventh round (222nd overall) by the Indianapolis Colts. His transition from college standout to professional athlete was smooth, and he went on to play seven seasons with the Colts, earning Pro Bowl honors twice (2014, 2016).

While known primarily as a punter, McAfee also handled kickoff duties and even attempted an onside kick during the playoffs. His time at West Virginia provided the platform and visibility necessary to launch a successful NFL career.

About Pat McAfee: From College Star to Media Personality

Following his retirement from the NFL in 2017, McAfee leveraged his charisma and deep understanding of football into a thriving media career. Today, he hosts The Pat McAfee Show, a daily sports talk program that covers NFL news, college football analysis, and broader pop culture topics.

His energetic style and insider perspective have made him one of the most influential voices in modern sports media. Despite his current fame, his roots remain firmly tied to his standout years at West Virginia University.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pat McAfee's College Career

Where did Pat McAfee play college football?

Pat McAfee played college football at West Virginia University from 2005 to 2008 as the starting punter for the Mountaineers.

What years did Pat McAfee play for West Virginia?

Pat McAfee played for West Virginia University from 2005 through the 2008 season, spanning four full collegiate seasons.

Was Pat McAfee a kicker or punter in college?

Pat McAfee served primarily as a punter during his college career, though he also handled kickoff duties and occasionally attempted field goals early in his tenure.

Did Pat McAfee win any awards in college?

Yes, Pat McAfee was named a First-Team All-American in 2007 and was a two-time First-Team All-Big East selection. He was also a finalist for the Ray Guy Award.

How did Pat McAfee’s college performance impact his NFL career?

McAfee’s consistent and powerful punting at West Virginia drew NFL scouts’ attention, leading to his selection by the Indianapolis Colts in the 2009 draft and a seven-year professional career.