The Nebraska football team's preparations for the upcoming season have been under the microscope, with particular attention given to the defensive lineup and special teams. Mitch Sherman from The Athletic recently joined the Common Fan Podcast to discuss these aspects in detail. Two critical questions dominate the discourse: whether Nebraska’s defense can maintain its performance under new coordinator John Butler and if special teams can improve sufficiently to avoid costing the Huskers crucial games. These concerns form the backbone of discussions surrounding the team's readiness for the season starting in August.
Mitch Sherman highlighted a pivotal area of concern within Nebraska's defensive strategy—depth along the defensive line. Despite having promising players like Riley Van Poppel and Elijah Jeudy, who have shown significant improvement this spring, there is apprehension about sustaining effectiveness throughout the season. Cam Lenhardt, another key player, has exhibited flashes of brilliance but remains inconsistent. Additionally, Keona Davis is noted as a promising pass rusher, yet the overall depth appears insufficient, raising doubts about endurance during the grueling Big Ten schedule.
In terms of confidence levels within the coaching staff regarding the defense, Sherman reported an optimistic outlook. The presence of versatile athletes such as Dasan McCullough and Willis McGahee, coupled with increased talent and depth in the secondary, suggests potential improvements in coverage capabilities. Last year's struggles were partly attributed to reliance on converted safeties at cornerback positions, which hindered third-down efficiency. This year, however, emerging talents like Donovan Jones and transfers such as Andrew Marshall promise enhanced competitiveness.
Special teams also face significant changes following Jack McCallister's departure via the transfer portal. New coordinator Mike Ekeler plans to implement rugby-style punting tactics, marking a substantial shift in approach. While Kamdyn Koch remains on the roster, his expertise lies in traditional punting methods. Consequently, finding a suitable rugby-style punter becomes imperative to align with Ekeler's strategic vision. Ekeler's influence extends beyond mere tactical adjustments; he aims to instill a heightened sense of priority and commitment across all facets of special teams operations.
As the Huskers gear up for the next season, addressing these defensive and special teams challenges will be crucial. Ensuring sustained performance from top-tier players while developing adequate depth could determine Nebraska's success. Furthermore, embracing innovative strategies under Ekeler's leadership may transform special teams into a reliable asset rather than a liability. With these considerations in mind, fans eagerly await how these developments unfold come August.