Bruce Thorson-USA TODAY Sports
Nebraska Cornhuskers vs Illinois: Grading The Game
Quarterbacks: Tommy Armstrong Jr. and Ron Kellogg III both had decent outings, but regressed a bit from last week. Armstrong had success through the air going 8-13 with 135 yards and two touchdowns. Kellogg saw limited action and finished with 51 yards passing. The issue with both Armstrong and Kellogg was points that were left on the field.
Grade: B-
Running Backs: Ameer Abdullah put the nation on notice yesterday. His 225 yards rushing led the way for Nebraska in their 39-19 win. Imani Cross on the other hand, struggled at times. He fumbled, was tackled in the end zone for a safety, and took a step backwards on Saturday. Terrell Newby might find himself second in the running back rotation.
Grade: B+
Wide Receivers/TE: Quincey Enunwa and Kenny Bell were stellar against Illinois. Bell’s one handed grab might be the best catch a Husker receiver has made in a decade. Enunwa continued to prove he is one of the best receivers in The Big Ten. This was the best group on the field for Nebraska yesterday.
Grade: A
Offensive Line: The line opened holes all day long for the Huskers, but allowed a safety in the first half. They are improving game by game although they need to play more consistently. Above average day for the o line.
Grade: B-
Defensive Backs: The defensive backs had an average outing against the Fighting Illini. There were moments when they made an impact coming off of the edge defending both the rush and pass. They made an impact, but missed tackles took away from the effort. They also allowed several third down passes that kept the defense on the field.
Grade: C+
Linebackers: David Santos and Jared Afalava started in place of Josh Banderas and Nate Gerry. Both of them made a few plays but also looked out of place and confused at times. Santos still does not possess the ability to crash his way through the line or make plays on the outside. Micheal Rose was probably the best backer on the day.
Grade: C-
Defensive Line: I thought the defensive line had their best game of the season. Jason Ankrah made plays. Vincent Valentine continues to be a presence at defensive end. As a whole they did a good job of containing Illinois quarterback Nathan Scheelhaas.
Grade: B-