Missouri’s likely starter at center narrowly missed his season being canceled as he moved from Rutgers in the Big Ten, to the SEC. And he’s keenly aware of the difference.

“I’m pretty lucky that I’m able to say I can play college football this year because half the conferences in the country kind of shut down,” Mike Maietti said in a video interview with Nathalie Jones of ABC-17. “I’m really happy to be here playing football.”

Maietti said he’s trying to build a relationship with teammates during camp, and earn their trust and respect.

The newcomer is one of the few experienced or known commodities on the offensive line for the Tigers. The other two are Case Cook at guard, and Larry Borom, who moved from guard to center.

Maietti started 33 games for Rutgers over the last 3 seasons. Last season, he started all 12 games at center, was named to the Academic All-Big Ten and the Rimington Trophy watch list.