Nebraska Football: Ethan Piper understands importance of spring ball
You have heard me talk all spring about the opportunities and the depth that the Nebraska football offensive line has. One player that I have not really mentioned and who kind of is getting lost in the shuffle with this talent is Ethan Piper. So far, it appears that Piper has had a strong spring. This is exactly the type of thing I want to hear when it comes to him.
I thought he created some good momentum for himself last season. He played in all eight games as a redshirt freshman, and he started the final seven contests at the right guard position. As it seems to be the case with a lot of the younger lineman, the season finale against Rutgers was a highlight for him. It makes perfect sense, considering that the line helped Nebraska total 638 yards of offense.
It seems as though Piper is ready to continue to take on the challenge. As noted in a report from the Lincoln Journal-Star, Nebraska football is trying something with their offensive line. They are rotating positions, as the coaching staff wants to see what positions each player can play at. Right now, Piper is rotating with fellow lineman Brock Bando.
Piper seems to be willing to do whatever it takes to get better. He has the advantage of having played a full season last year. Now, he wants to make the most of it. From playing in one game against Maryland in 2019 and redshirting, to starting all eight games last year, it seems as though he is truly on an upward swing. He can only continue to improve from here. Right now, he is focused on the little things in terms of improvement.
"“This is spring ball. You’re fighting for your spot every day, and everybody’s going to get enough reps,” Piper said. “You’ve just got to come out and put some good stuff on film and see what the coaches decide from there.”"
He definitely understands the importance of spring ball, and it sounds like he is going to make the most of it. I would consider him a good candidate to be in the thick of things on the line.
Next. Rogers issues challenge to defensive line. dark
Piper certainly has the experience, and the good momentum in his favor. I’ll be interested to see what he does in these next couple of weeks. Spring ball is where you can assert your dominance and really catch the eye of the coaching staff. Much like he did in the 2020 season, it sounds like he wants to do it again in spring practices.