Nebraska Football: 5 Offseason Storylines To Watch For In 2017

The Youth Infusion

Don’t let the potential number of young guns on 2017’s starting 22 fool you. While there is a good chance you’ll see a group that is largely wet behind the ears, these are hungry young athletes that are prepared to take Nebraska football to the next step in its evolution.

The number of recruits that may see immediate playing time is rather stunning, especially when looking at the wide receivers that either are in Lincoln or will be coming in the upcoming months. Keyshawn Johnson, Jr., Jaevon McQuitty and Tyjon Lindsey all look to carve out playing time with the departure of Jordan Westerkamp, Alonzo Moore and Brandon Reilly.

Jaylin Bradley will no doubt be given a shot at a running back position that is looking for a star. No doubt Riley is trying to find his next centerpiece for Nebraska’s ground attack rather than shuffling backs around hoping to find each game’s hot hand.

The newest of the newbies aren’t the only ones to keep an eye out for. There have been players who’ve patiently waited their turn and are ready to shed their redshirts.

After a strong 2016 season of learning the ropes, Matt Farniok, Bryan Brokop and Boe Wilson are all chomping at the bit to get playing time. Look for Farniok to challenge David Knevel and Cole Conrad for the right tackle spot.

Brokop likely works inside to battle Tanner Farmer for his right guard position as there’s no reason Gerald Foster should lose his starting left guard spot barring injury.

Finally, Boe Wilson and Michael Decker will probably go head-to-head for the center position. The news gets even better with Wilson as he looks able to play any interior position. If Nebraska finds itself in dire straits as it did last year, offensive line coach Mike Cavanaugh has far more talent on his 2016 roster to plug the holes.