Nebraska Football: Grading the Huskers win over Illinois

Coaches: A

There is not much that needs to be said about the effort of Frost and his coaching staff. It has been incredible to see this team compete after starting 0-6. Just look at Ozigbo, he’s a completely different player than he was at the start of the season. He got 90 yards on his first 29 carries and has been a beast since. He’s going to reach 1,000 yards most likely.

But more than that, the Huskers were ready to go. The offense racked up more than 450 yards for the sixth straight game and the defense forced three turnovers. This is a young team that’s improving every week and that’s a credit to Frost and his coaches.

Special teams: A

Things couldn’t have been much worse for Nebraska football a week ago on special teams, but against Illinois, it was a great day. The Huskers recovered two muffed punts by the Illini and also blocked a punt that turned into a safety. Had that been a touchdown, the unit would have gotten an A+.

Barret Pickering also made his only field goal attempt and was good on all seven extra points. Punter Isaac Armstrong also had a solid day, averaging 43.3 yards per attempt. Illinois also dropped two of his four punts, so he should get some credit for that right?

All in all, it was a very good day for Nebraska football and its fans. Michigan State is coming to town this Saturday for senior day, which will provide the Huskers a shot at their fourth straight win.