If Nebraska wants to get up off the mat and snap a three-game losing streak, it will need everyone on deck. On Thursday night, the Big Ten availability report showed that the Huskers took a big step in that direction.
After being listed as questionable on Tuesday's report, both safety Jamir Conn and offensive lineman Gunnar Gottula are both listed as probable. Considering both players are among the best at their positions, their returns couldn't come at a better time.
Conn started each of Nebraska's first six games, totaling 26 tackles, 5.0 tackles for loss, and 2.0 sacks. By all accounts, he was one of the team's most productive defenders, consistently making plays that helped the Huskers win.
Conn started but was injured in the game against Indiana, and his fourth-quarter absence could have played a major role in two long touchdown passes where the defenders were completely uncovered. Both plays seemed to stem from the Huskers' safeties misreading the play's direction.
Jamir Conn and Gunnar Gottula returns bolster Nebraska football during three-game losing streak
Conn missed the entire Nebraska game against Oregon. While his absence can't be easily traced to the loss in Eugene, there is always a chance that, had he played, he could have done something to stop the Ducks' final 18-play, 82-yard march to the winning touchdown. The same could be said for the Washington Huskies' winning touchdown drive on Halloween night.
Gottula suffered a concussion in the game against Oregon and missed the Halloween Blackout game. After missing two weeks, the offensive lineman looks to be on his way back.
Regarding Conn's availability for Friday's game, defensive coordinator Rob Aurich said Tuesday, "He was at practice this week." However, he also noted that the senior has to "go through a couple more check marks" before returning to the field. Aurich finished by saying, "When we do get him back, he'll be welcomed."
Regardless of whether he starts, NU's protection unit could be Gunnar Gottula in whatever role he can fill Friday night. Against Washington, the Huskers' starting offensive line, Elijah Pritchett, Paul Mubenga, Justin Evans, Brendan Black, and Tree Babalade, were the only linemen to play the entire game. Each played 77 offensive snaps.
The Nebraska football team would love to have both players back and playing like normal on Friday night against Illinois.
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