Husker Football: Five Major Questions Versus Fresno State
By Mike Snow
2. How will the defense look with the return of Randy Gregory?
Mandatory Credit: Bruce Thorson-USA TODAY Sports
You wouldn’t think Nebraska would feel the loss of a key defensive player against an FCS opponent, but you could’ve fooled onlookers.
There was very little pass rush against the McNeese State quarterbacks, and the Cowboys had a lot of success on the ground, running for 188 yards.
Last week, the Huskers had one heck of a time trying to wrangle quarterback Daniel Sams who tallied 75 yards on ten carries. They’ll be dealing with another fleet-footed quarterback this week in Fresno State’s Brandon Connette.
The defensive line needs to step up this week, and the reinsertion of Gregory should free up some other guys on the line.
I would also expect the Valley’s Bulldogs to keep their running back safe at home in the backfield in an attempt to block Gregory (emphasis on the “attempt” part).
That alone will help a linebacker group that struggled mightily in guarding the flats last week.