The Nebraska football team hit the practice field on Wednesday for a two-hour workout inside the Hawks Championship Center in preparation for its upcoming game against the Kansas State Wildcats. The Huskers practiced in helmets and shoulder pads for the third time this week.
Stakes will be high in this Saturday's game against the Wildcats with the winner representing the North Division in the Big 12 Championship game on Dec. 5, in Dallas, Texas. Kansas State brings to Lincoln a solid rushing attack and a talented running back in Daniel Thomas. Defensive coordinator Carl Pelini talked about Thomas after Wednesday's practice.
"He's as good of running back as we've faced all year," Pelini said. "He's got good speed but more than anything he's strong. He breaks tackles. He runs through tacklers and he's deceptively quick. He makes people miss. He has really good feet. You have to tackle him. You have to be physical when you get there, but at the same time you have to use your leverage and you have to be sure in the open field, because he'll make you miss, too."
Saturday's game will also mark the last time 13 seniors play inside Memorial Stadium. Pelini said it will not only be an emotional night for the seniors, but for the coaches as well.
"You develop a relationship and become very close with all of them," Pelini said about his seniors. "It's hard for a coach every day on senior night."
On the injury front, freshman running back Rex Burkhead returned to the action on Wednesday after being sidelined with a foot injury before the Texas Tech game. Before being injury, Burkhead had 23 rushing attempts for 118 yards and one touchdown.
Kickoff for this Saturday's game is set for 6:45 p.m. and can be seen nationally on ESPN. Check back to Huskers.com for more updates on the Nebraska football team.
