Nebraska Cornhuskers: Tommy Armstrong vs Wes Lunt
When the Nebraska Cornhuskers take on the Illinois Fighting Illini, there will be a tremendous quarterback battle taking place. The Fighting Illini welcome the Huskers’ Tommy Armstrong, while the Blackshirt defense has to see another talented quarterback named Wes Lunt.
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For the Nebraska Cornhuskers to earn their first road victory in Mike Riley‘s tenure, Armstrong has to play like an All-American quarterback. The Huskers’ entire offense revolves around Armstrong’s ability to get the ball to the receivers in open space. During the non conference schedule, Nebraska had one of the deepest group of wide receiver units in college football. With the return of De’Mornay Pierson-El, the Huskers should be even better in conference play.
So far, Lunt has played a different style with the Fighting Illini this season. Averaging just under six yards per pass attempt, Lunt is using a shorter passing game this season. However, it doesn’t mean Illinois won’t go deep against the Huskers. They just haven’t shown the ability to get behind the defense with regularity.
Wes Lunt
Both quarterbacks throw the ball a lot. While Armstrong is leading the Big Ten in pass attempts with 151, Lunt is second in the conference with 146 pass attempts. Lunt is completing 60 percent of his passes, compared to Armstrong’s 58.9 completion percentage. They are also the top two in the Big Ten for pass completions. Therefore, the defenses will be in for a long day.
Both teams are adept at getting into the end zone too. Armstrong has thrown a Big Ten leading 11 touchdown passes, while Lunt has six touchdowns through the air.
When it comes to running with the football, Armstrong has the huge advantage. Although he didn’t start the season using his legs, Armstrong has become a threat in recent games. His final touchdown run against Southern Miss gave the Cornhuskers a two touchdown lead late in the game. Don’t be surprised if Armstrong goes for 100 yards rushing against the Fighting Illini.