2B – Chubba Purdy (Fr.)
Purdy was another exciting addition from the portal. The transfer from Florida State only recorded stats in garbage time vs UMass last year. Granted, he did go 5-5 for 98 yards and two touchdowns so he made the most of that opportunity.
The main reason I have Purdy fighting for the No. 2 spot with Smothers is that this is Whipple’s guy. With four years of eligibility left, Whipple sees Purdy as a quarterback he can start molding now and turn him into exactly what he wants by the time Thompson leaves.
The Cornhuskers already had Thompson committed, but they still went out and got Purdy. This says not only was the coaching staff not as confident in the quarterback room to win now, but they also wanted to make sure they had their guy for the future as well.
4 – Heinrich Haarberg (Fr.)
The freshman from Kearney did not see any game time last year but Husker fans did get a glimpse of him in the spring game and the hail mary he threw as time expired.
All fans really know about Haarberg is the potential media or coaches speak of and his high school highlights. Could he end up being higher on this list after he’s had a year to develop? It’s certainly possible.
However, Haarberg is another player you have to worry about entering into the portal especially if it looks like Purdy is the quarterback of the future.
Looking back at his offers out of high school, Nebraska was arguably his best offer. The only other schools that stand out are Vanderbilt and NC State so it would also make sense to see him stick around and wait for his shot down the road at least for a couple years and considering the fact he’s an in-state product.
The Rest – Masker & Torres
While Torres is another recruit coaches are excited about out of Texas, this year should be nothing more than a time for him to learn the offense and develop. With all of the additions, don’t expect to hear his name up for serious consideration for at least a couple years.
Matt Masker has been with the program a while now and has seen some play-time in blowout games. Expect that to continue.
Masker seems like a great player to have in the quarterback room and on the practice field as a veteran that boosts morale and can be somewhat of a coach on the sidelines for others.
Tip your cap to him for his dedication and the fact he’s still around because of his love for the program.
How do you see the quarterback competition shaping up for Nebraska football?