Cornhuskers’ offense on the rise in week two
The Nebraska Cornhuskers’ offense played well against the BYU Cougars. Yet, there were differing opinions on how well the Cornhuskers‘ offense really performed. Although the Huskers put up 28 points in the loss to BYU, the offense was held scoreless in the second and fourth quarter. During their week 2 contest with the South Alabama Jaguars, the inconsistent play needs to be corrected for the Cornhuskers’ offense to succeed at a higher level.
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With Mike Riley at the helm of the Cornhuskers’ offense, Nebraska had quick starts in both halves, but the Huskers were plagued by missed opportunities. Whether it was a pair of missed field goals by Drew Brown, or Tommy Armstrong’s lone interception late in the third quarter, Nebraska had plenty of chances to put the game away. In addition, the Huskers were penalized 12 times for 90 yards, so it’s easy to find ways for the offense to get better field position, and production against the Jaguars.
The Nebraska Cornhuskers’ offense already decided to make some changes to the strategy after Week 1. Due to the running game only managing 126 yards on 37 rushing attempts, offensive coordinator Danny Langsdorf revealed Nebraska’s plan to trim the I-back rotation this week. Due to the Cornhusker’s offense making changes for week 2, there should be better play in the backfield. The Huskers are hoping the I-backs can find a better rhythm. For Nebraska to become a Big Ten contenders, the I-backs have to provide some production to bolster the Huskers’ offense. If not, the offensive line will be blitzed into submission by every opponent.
Despite placing an emphasis on the running attack, it won’t be an easy feat against the Jaguars. Although they gave up 177 rushing yards to Gardner-Webb, South Alabama only gave up 3.3 yards per carry last week. It seems like the perfect opportunity for senior Imani Cross to state his case as Nebraska’s No.1 I-back. The offense needs to establish an identity early on, and Cross is the type of back to run with an attitude. However, he may be the I-back receiving diminished playing time due to the lineup change.
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For the most part, Armstrong played well in his first start under coach Riley. However, he did have the aforementioned interception, and a first half fumble. Still, Armstrong was not rattled by the miscues, and his poise was a great sign for the Cornhuskers’ offense as a whole.
Sure enough, Armstrong is eager to build on his second career 300 yard passing game. He has the talent on the outside to become a force through the air, but the Cornhuskers’ offense must use the running game to complement the passing attack. The Jaguars displayed a dominant style of pass defense in Week 1, but they should be facing a plethora of receivers, in line to have another big day.
Armstrong had 27 completions in his first game. He connected with eight different receivers last Saturday, so expectations are high for the Big Red to continue their offensive display. Jordan Westerkamp led the team with seven catches for 107 yards, and one spectacular touchdown. Juniors Brandon Reilly, and Alonzo Moore, also made an impact on the offensive end. They combined to make eight catches, for 118 yards, including Moore’s first quarter touchdown reception.
Brandon Reilly
One receiver ready to have a break out game is Stanley Morgan. In his first game with the Huskers, Morgan caught two passes for 19 yards, but he’s excited about his role with the offense. According to Nebraska.247sports.com, Morgan is one of the best blockers on the team, and his presence may facilitate Nebraska’s running game on Saturday. Despite Morgan’s lack of experience, he will grow with the Cornhuskers’ offense.