Nebraska Football: Tight ends need to be part of the equation in 2020
Nebraska Football would be wise to use the talent at the position.
It’s no secret that production of the tight end position was lacking for Nebraska Football in 2019. There were some games when the tight end position played a bigger factor than others. However, for the most part, the position was used for blocking purposes. Heading into the 2020 season, the Nebraska Football offense should focus on getting them the ball a more.
Jack Stoll was the leading pass-catcher at the tight end position. He caught 25 passes for 234 yards and a touchdown. A 42-yard grab was his longest of the season. That came against South Alabama in the opener.
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We saw the future of the tight end position a bit as Chris Hickman managed to catch a pass against Maryland. Travis Vokolek could also prove to be a valuable piece that tight end. He is certainly an interesting addition. He caught 17 passes for 198 yards and two touchdowns in two seasons at Rutgers. How he will fit into the equation is something to definitely watch for in spring.
Whatever the case may be, the tight end position needs to step up in 2020. Nebraska likes to stretch the field with their offense, and the tight end needs to be a big part of that. I always equate the tight end position as a sort of security blanket for the quarterback. If the quarterback does not have his security blanket, then things get a bit more difficult in terms of reads. Especially if the defense manages to cover the receivers nicely, this could give the quarterback additional options to throw to, particularly in the red zone.
There is obviously more names in the tight end room than those three mentioned above. However, if the tight end position is not utilized, then the point is moot. Nebraska Football needs to spend time in the spring working to get the tight ends involved. They were a missing piece of the offense last year, and that needs to change. There is certainly talent there. It is not like the proverbial cupboard is bare.
If Nebraska Football can focus on getting the tight ends involved, that will add another dimension to the offense. They need all hands on deck in what is a crucial year for both program and coaching staff. I really want to see them try and take the next step. They can make that happen by getting all players involved.