One of the most interesting developments in the Nebraska football culture is how much more talent is coming from the program’s own back yard. There is so much talent in fact that the Huskers could not scoop it all up even if they wanted to.
Despite the Huskers needing to be a little more discerning when it comes to offering scholarships to local players, it looks as though they might have been caught sleeping when it comes to Millard South wide receiver Amarion Jackson. The good news is they can limit the damage.
Jackson received his first FBS scholarship offer ever earlier this week and it wasn’t from the Nebraska Cornhuskers. It turns out that the Illinois Fighting Illini got their foot in the door first.
It certainly makes sense that Illinois would want to get their name on the board as early as possible. The Illini have recently had some success coming into the Huskers’ back yard. They managed to briefly land the commitment of Omaha Central offensive lineman Caleb Pyfrom. However, he eventually decommitted this past winter and signed with the Missouri Tigers.
#AGTG After a great conversation with @RobbyDischer, I am blessed to receive an offer from @IlliniFootball @Coach_Wiz3 @MSouthFootball @Warren_Academy @Steve_Warren96 @jones_yano pic.twitter.com/dbPkWmhQnZ
— Amarion Jackson (@AjJackson_21) January 31, 2024
Jackson is also coming off one heck of a sophomore season or the high powered Millard South offense. In 2023, he hauled down 57 passes for 1,086 yards and 12 touchdowns. It’s hard to see a player this young put up numbers like that and not get excited.
Big Ten rival comes into Nebraska football's back yard for rising WR
Seeing those numbers, it’s hard to know for sure why Matt Rhule and company haven’t come calling yet for the 2026 wide receiver. Now that Illinois has made their offer, the dam might be about to burst.
It’s safe to say that Rhule won’t want another Teddy Rezac situation. Expect Amarion Jackson to have a Nebraska football offer in his pocket soon.