BUFFALO, N.Y. — The University of Buffalo's Jovany Ruiz received national notoriety for his insane hamstring workout video that went viral, making its way to ESPN.

"It was amazing having all my friends be like 'oh my God, you're on SportsCenter, you're on ESPN.' The best part was obviously having Tom Brady comment on it," said Ruiz.

His journey from Fredonia to UB had more ups and downs than reps he's done in the weight room.

"Even from the beginning when I'd talk to people about walking on to a D-1 team many people would just laugh," added Ruiz.

Ruiz was a four-sport star as a Hillbilly, but garnered zero college scholarships. So, the former 99 lb. wrestler found his love for working out and ultimately walked on at UB for track.

"I was able to use that to come on to the football team. I think just competing pushed me to be here right now," Ruiz mentioned.

However, it didn't work out as planned. Jovany was a tryout walk-on for UB football with no playing time, leading to a difficult conversation where head coach Lance Leipold suggested moving on.

"It was very disheartening hearing your coach tell you that if you want to play football it won't be at this program," said Ruiz.

Jovany re-dedicated himself and with a point to prove earned his coach's attention in more than just football.

"What a great example for life when something isn't going to be there. When you want something bad enough and you're going to keep working it and it may not happen right away. Those are the things in this day and age we lose sight of," said Leipold.

The work has paid off, the senior now starts and hauled in his first career touchdown versus Miami.

"It felt amazing. I was kind of mad I got a flag on that celebration. There was a lot of passion in that celebration, a lot of hurt, and lot of emotions in that celebration," added a jovial Ruiz.

Ruiz and the Bulls continue working towards more celebrations Saturday when they host Kent State at noon.