For the second practice in a row, the Nebraska Cornhuskers were without Tommy Armstrong on Tuesday. According Nebraska.247sports.com, the Huskers’ quarterback was at practice in a walking boot. Therefore, his status for Saturday’s game against Purdue is up in the air.
With Armstrong injured, junior Ryker Fyfe took 100 percent of the first-team reps on Tuesday. Although Armstrong is listed as day-to-day, the coaching staff wants to get Fyfe ready to start if he’s needed. The Huskers’ offense has no plans of changing the formula if Fyfe replaces Armstrong in the lineup. However, it remains to be seen what the slight differences may be with a backup quarterback in the game.
Due to all of the close games, Fyfe has had little experience this season. He’s completed 5/7 passes for 33 yards, while throwing a touchdown and an interception. It’s clear his workload will increase if Armstrong is unable to play.
Read More: Big Ten Rankings: Huskers struggling in conference
Currently, the Boilermakers give up 428 yards of offense. Opponents average 229 passing yards, and 199 rushing yards per game. Therefore, the Huskers are confident about using their entire game plan on Saturday.
Offensive coordinator Danny Langsdorf said that redshirt freshman Zack Darlington may make the travel roster on Saturday. However, he’s only likely to dress if Armstrong can’t play. Most likely, the Huskers won’t take four quarterbacks to Purdue. Meaning, A.J. Bush could be the back up quarterbacks vs. Purdue.
Once again, the rest of the team had plenty of injury concerns. In addition to Armstrong, wide receiver Alonzo Moore sat out of practice. He’s questionable to play for the Huskers on Saturday. Offensive tackle Nick Gates dressed for practice yesterday. However, he’s still not performing at 100 percent. They hope to have him back for the game, but they’ll keep an eye on Gates’ recovery the rest of the week.
Defensively, the Huskers have been decimated by injuries. Luke Gifford is still hampered by an injury, and did not participate in practice. Defensive tackle Kevin Williams also sat out of practice.
Next: Is it time to replace Tommy Armstrong?
Coming into Saturday’s game with Purdue, the Nebraska Cornhuskers are (3-5, 1-3). The Boilermakers are (1-6, 0-3). They don’t have a victory over a FBS opponent.