Nebraska Football: Outside linebackers standing out in spring ball

Outside linebacker was a position to watch this spring for Nebraska football and so far, things have been looking good in terms of applying pressure.

When it comes to Nebraska football and its defense, there are two main focuses heading into next season: sacks and turnovers.

While the Huskers weren’t bad in either area, they weren’t great either and if Nebraska football is going to play winning football in 2019, the defense is going to need more impact plays and nothing changes the game more than a sack, forced fumble or interception.

Obviously, a lot of things can lead to turnovers but one thing defenses can consistently do that leads to takeaways is putting pressure on the quarterback and so far this spring, according to defensive coordinator Erik Chinander, the Huskers are doing a better job of that.

“The guys are getting to the passer,” The defensive coordinator told reporters after practice Wednesday. And one of the guys that is doing that is JoJo Domann, the safety/outside linebacker that continues to turn heads.

According to the Lincoln Journal Star, Domann is spending most of his time at outside linebacker, especially in sub packages but he is still seeing some snaps at safety. Regardless, he is standing out as an edge rusher and right now, he’s not alone.

Two other guys that have made a solid impression this spring are seniors Tyrin Ferguson and Alex Davis. Chinander also mentioned former Ole Miss transfer Breon Dixon and incoming freshman Garrett Nelson, who enrolled early. This is according to the Journal Star, which also reported that Caleb Tannor is sitting out with an injury.

What it means for Nebraska football fans is that the pass rush might be taking a step forward collectively. Ferguson saw extended action last season and got just one sack, while Davis has 1.5 career sacks.

Depending on two guys who have 2.5 career sacks combined heading into their senior seasons isn’t promising, yet Domann, a gifted athlete with a nose for the ball seems like a guy who could get 5-7 sacks with an increase in playing time.

Dixon is a guy many Nebraska football fans have had high hopes for and who knows, with spring ball under his belt, Nelson could also make an immediate contribution. With a strong group of defensive lineman back, not all the sacks have to come from outside linebacker, but at the very least, it seems like competition is bringing out the best in everyone.

And as far as Chinander is concerned, that’s really the best he can hope for in his search for more sacks and turnovers.