Nighswander, a native of Burgoon, Ohio, played offensive lineman for Morehead State from 1970-1973. The three-year starter and two-time team captain was named Team MVP in 1973 and All-OVC in 1972 and 1973.

In 1973, he blocked for an offensive unit that scored 34 touchdowns and averaged 331 yards per game. 

Following his career at Morehead State, he played two seasons for the Buffalo Bills. After his football career, he coached high school football in Northern Kentucky for ten years.