AIR FORCE ACADEMY — The battle Sean Quintana faces to play tight end is similar to what his Air Force teammates as a whole will face Saturday against Minnesota.
Quintana wins his battles with a big heart and determination that make up for any challenges and shortcomings. The Falcons will bank on the same qualities in hopes of upsetting their Big Ten Conference opponent, which is a 4 1/2-point favorite.
Quintana, 6-feet-1, 208 pounds, is a converted wide receiver. Coach Troy Calhoun and Quintana would tell you tight ends are usually bigger players.
“We know that they (Minnesota) are going to be big,” Quintana said. “But I don’t worry about that. I can handle it. You can’t be afraid at all or you’ll get dominated. Nothing frightens me on the football field.”
The senior from Highlands Ranch believes technique can create a level playing field even when he draws defensive ends. The Gophers’ starting defensive ends, Barrett Moen and Cedric McKinley, each weigh 282 pounds.
“He won’t tell you anything about the number of touches (catches),” Calhoun said of Quintana. “He makes everybody around him a better football player.”
Quintana said he was frustrated the past two seasons because of moving between positions, but he’s enjoying playing tight end. His final season got off to a good start Saturday when he had a career-best 27-yard catch in a 72-0 victory over Nicholls State. His only touchdown catch came against Notre Dame in 2007, and that year he had his best game with three catches for 24 yards against Navy.
Calhoun also has noticed Quintana plays with inspiration. Quintana said he gets his fire from his father, Paul Quintana, who played football at Denver South High and Northern Colorado. The elder Quintana played with the handicap of a deformed arm.
“He was my coach growing up and definitely an inspiration for me,” Sean Quintana said. “He’s a great golfer as well. He uses regular clubs. I’ve only beaten him once.”
Irv Moss: 303-954-1296 or imoss@denverpost.com
