Will Nebraska feature Terrell Newby at I-back?

Will Nebraska feature Terrell Newby at I-back again? Entering Saturday’s game with the Miami Hurricanes, the Nebraska Cornhuskers have one main question on offense. Did they really find their star running back? If so, it took the Cornhuskers five quarters to find their I-back replacement for Ameer Abdullah. According to Omaha.com, Abdullah always knew Terrell Newby was the heir apparent to the I-back throne. However, after one game of the 2015 season, there was no reason to believe Newby was the go-to I-back.

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Sure, he had his moments, but why would Nebraska feature Terrell Newby on the offensive end? He didn’t show the burst of Mikale Wilbon or the power of Imani Cross in the season opener. Therefore, when the coaching staff announced they would make changes to the I-back rotation, there was plenty of uncertainty about which players would get the call.

Could the Huskers actually go with the two reserve backs, while using Newby as a bit player? Not many people would have argued with the change after one game, but Nebraska used the complete opposite approach. The Nebraska I-backs felt they needed to get into a rhythm, and it happened against South Alabama. Newby got the ball early and often for the Huskers’ offense, crushing the spirit of the South Alabama Jaguars. He finished with 28 carries for 198 yards, and two touchdowns. In addition, Newby had one receiving touchdown. Still, the jury has to be out for Newby. He proved he’s able to get the job done, but he needs to perform like this on a consistent basis.

Terrell Newby's time

Newby stated, “it feels good when you’re out there. You really get a feel for the game.” Hopefully for the Huskers’ offense, Newby gets a feel for what the Miami defense is trying to do on Saturday. He’s one of the keys to the game, but it doesn’t mean he should be secure in his position. If he’s not playing well, Nebraska should look at the other I-backs. Don’t expect Miami’s defense to give up as many big plays against Nebraska’s ground attack. However, it doesn’t mean Newby won’t play another great game. It will be evident if Newby is running tentatively.

Remember, Saturday’s game will be Newby’s third start in three years at Nebraska. No question, there was a lot of pressure for junior I-back in the season debut, for Mike Riley’s staff. While playing in a new offense, he was stifled early on, but seemed to gain some confidence, leading to a third quarter touchdown against BYU. If form holds, Newby should be more comfortable in his role with the Huskers.