At a glance
Most football players dream of one day playing on the biggest stage but few have the chance. Former Alfred State and Temple University wide receiver Rod Streater achieved his dream and made his NFL debut as a starting wide receiver for the Oakland Raiders as they took on the San Diego Chargers on Monday Night Football.
Most football players dream of one day playing on the biggest stage but few have the chance. Former Alfred State and Temple University wide receiver Rod Streater achieved his dream and made his NFL debut as a starting wide receiver for the Oakland Raiders as they took on the San Diego Chargers on Monday Night Football.
While Streater was playing on the West Coast a group of students and coaches watched Streater’s every move at the Cappadonia Auditorium inside the Orvis Activities Center.
Alfred State football coach Mick Caba was one of the attendees and the smile on his face was evident even in the dark auditorium. "It is extremely rewarding to see Rod play tonight and enjoy the success he is having. I am personally very close to Rod and have worked closely with him and his agent DS Ping throughout his draft and free agent experience. To know how hard Rod has worked to get here tonight makes this extra special. Rod is so deserving."
Streater, a non-drafted free agent signee, earned a spot on the Raider roster after making 18 catches during the preseason. He was so impressive during the preseason that he earned a starting wide receiver spot for opening night.
Streater made four catches for 27 yards and a 2-yard TD catch in the Raiders 22-14 loss. His touchdown catch was in the final minute of the game and was the only Raider touchdown of the night. Streater also caught the ensuing 2-point conversion. He was targeted by Carson Palmer over ten times in the contest.
Current Pioneer wide receiver and Dansville High School grad Sammy Diaz watched intently "Watching a former Pioneer player in the NFL motivates me to push and give all I got on and off the field. It shows that dreams do come true if you work hard and focus on your goals."
Brett Rapan (Bolivar Richburg), a sophomore baseball player, echoed Diaz's comments. "Coming from a small school like Alfred State it is an inspiration to see that a player started out where I am and made it to the biggest stage. With hard work all dreams are attainable."
Caba knows the impact of Streater's success for the college. "The biggest message tonight and Rod's success in the NFL sends to our players in the football program and in the athletic department is that with hard work, dedication, and believing in your dreams is possible. You just got to keep believing and if your opportunity comes you need to be ready.
Caba previously had two other players play in regular season games but Streater was his first former player to make a start in the NFL. Streater is the 3rd Pioneer to wear a NFL uniform but is the first to play in a regular season game.
With one game under his belt, Streater and the Raiders will now prepare to travel to Miami to take on the Dolphins on Sunday.
Previous Rod Streater Stories:
Athletic Department to Host Viewing Party of Streater's NFL Debut
Streater on Raiders Opening Day Roster
Streater Creating a Buzz at Raider Camp
Streater Looking to Make Raider Roster
Streater has NFL Dreams