Lincoln – The Nebraska football team held its final full-scale practice of the week Thursday, as it continued to prepare for Saturday’s afternoon matchup against Nicholls State with a two-hour workout in helmets and shorts. Head Coach Bill Callahan described his team as “focused for this particular game."
Following practice, Callahan was asked to break down the Nicholls State defense, which he described as “multiple.”
“They play everything everyone else does,” Callahan said. “There’s really no variation in terms of how they are playing their scheme. They have done an excellent job. I think it comes down more to fundamentals and techniques for them. They have done an excellent job of executing their system, and they have demonstrated that on many occasions against good football teams.”
With the Bulldogs basing their offense off the triple-option, stopping fullback Broderick Cole will be a key for the Husker defense. Cole led Nicholls State last season with 13 rushing touchdowns and fell only one yard shy of the team lead with 717 yards on the ground.
“He’s a physical guy, explosive and fast. Everything’s quick hitting. He’s in between the guards quite a bit. He can block, he can lead and he can load. He can do it all. He’s a good player, I really like that guy. He’s a key (for them). You have to puncture the fullback, knock him down and force their game on the perimeter. But he’s a load, an outstanding player.”
On the injury front, Callahan announced that senior center Kurt Mann is doubtful to play on Saturday due to a viral infection. Callahan said he does not expect the situation to be serious, and junior Brett Byford will start if Mann is unable to play. Juniors Jordan Picou and Andy Christensen will serve as backups at the position for this weekend.
“I feel confident that (Brett) will do a great job,” Callahan said. “He has a lot of experience, because he’s had a ton of reps (in practice). He’s a smart guy and knows the offense well, so it’s just a matter of going out and executing under pressure. He can do it.”
The Huskers conclude their game week preparations Friday with a short afternoon walkthrough.