Nick Holmes

When making the transition from small town high school football to college football, the biggest key is finding a place you are comfortable at.

For former Pleasant Ridge Ram Nick Holmes that comfort zone is just down the road at the University of Saint Mary, 16 miles down the road from where he tore up the gridiron for four years with the Rams.

Holmes is currently in his sophomore season at Saint Mary and is putting together a record breaking season, as the defensive back currently leads the NAIA in interceptions with seven which has also tied the school record.

He is also third on the team in tackles with over 40 on the year to go along with one forced fumble.

Holmes’ biggest game came in the opening game of the season, as he picked off three passes and recorded 65 return yards off those picks.

He also picked off two passes last Saturday in the Spires second win of the season 30-19 over Bethany.

Last season Holmes earned his playing time with a strong freshman campaign, picking off two passes while recording 29 tackles, one tackle for loss and also a touchdown reception on offense as well.

At Pleasant Ridge Holmes was a standout on both side of the ball as the Rams quarterback and safety, being named a two time all-state selection and rushing for over 1,000 yards in his junior and senior seasons.

In his senior year on defense he recorded two interceptions and 39 total tackles, and overall finished with 21 total touchdowns in the season.

Holmes will look to continue his strong sophomore season and get the Spires back on track, as Saint Mary is just 2-5 on the year with a road matchup this Saturday at Friends University with kickoff scheduled for 1:00 p.m..