Nebraska Football: 5 Offseason Storylines To Watch For In 2017

Diaco’s Nose Tackle

Here we are. It’s long been discussed and Nebraska will finally feature the 3-4 defense courtesy of new defensive coordinator Bob Diaco.

The good news is that there’s plenty of players on this roster who are perfect for the linebacker positions in this scheme. Alex Davis was struggling a bit to nail down the role of defensive end, but he works perfectly as a 3-4 outside linebacker. You’ll also see the likes of Sedrick King, Colin Miller and Guy Thomas along with him.

On the opposite side, Quayshon Alexander, Tyrin Ferguson, Luke Gifford and Marcus Newby offer their own punch.

As for the interior, look for players like Mohammed Barry, Pernell Jefferson, Willie Hampton, Greg Simmons, Chris Weber, Dedrick Young and incoming true freshman Avery Roberts to fill the void.

The biggest question mark is who will play at the most important position in the 3-4 defense, the nose tackle spot?

Two names that have been thrown out are Mick Stoltenberg and Carlos Davis. While both may do in a pinch, they aren’t ideal. A nose tackle needs to be a squatty guy that’s a pain in the rear to move. At 6’5″ 290 and 6’2″ 295, Stoltenberg’s a bit too lean and Davis is just a bit too tall, respectively.

Davis could likely hold his own, but another possibility is if Nebraska can sign Dallas, Tex. defensive tackle Damion Daniels. He tips the scales at 315 pounds and only measures 6’1″. It may be a bit much to ask of a true freshman, but he’d provide the size.