Nebraska Cornhuskers: Injuries shuffle defensive line again
The Nebraska Cornhuskers completed preparation for Saturday’s Big Ten home opener on Thursday. During Mike Riley‘s post practice interview, he revealed some terrible injury news going forward.
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Defensive end Freedom Akinmoladun injured his ankle, and is out for at least two games. The redshirt freshman has been one of the bright spots for the Huskers’ defense. He leads the team with 4.5 sacks. In addition, Akinmoladun has seven tackles for a loss.
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The defensive line should get another player back to help against the Wisconsin Badgers’ run game. Vincent Valentine missed the last three games due to injury, but he’s had a few good practices this week. Barring any setbacks, Valentine should provide valuable snaps in the middle.
According to Nebraska.247sports.com, Valentine’s return allows Greg McMullen to move back to defensive end. However, coach Riley will likely have McMullen playing in multiple positions along the defensive line. The Huskers will also play some younger guys this weekend. Sedrick King, and Mick Stoltenberg are a couple of defensive lineman hoping to make a contribution.
Once again, the Huskers will also be without a pair of starting linebackers. Michael Rose-Ivey and Josh Banderas have been absent the last few weeks with groin injuries. According to Riley, the players are getting healthier, but they aren’t ready to play just yet. Chris Weber has been a standout for the Huskers with 35 total tackles, replacing Banderas.
Offensively, the Huskers should be healthy coming into the game. De’Mornay Pierson-El will have more of an impact on the game. He saw his first action last week.
The Huskers are also planning to dress running back Jordan Stevenson for the first time in his career. It seems like he’s going to be a factor in the return game. Riley didn’t show his full hand, but Stevenson might become one of the big name players as the season continues.