South Division 1. Oklahoma Texas Oklahoma State Texas Tech Texas A&M

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1 Table of Contents Quick Facts, Schedule... 1 Returning Lettermen/Spring Depth and Roster Nebraska Coaching Staff Spring Notes/Position Outlook Player Biographies Newcomers Honors, Recap, Statistics Big 12 Statistics Nebraska Seniors Spring Game Results/Records Nebraska Football Coaching Staff Head Coach...Bo Pelini (Ohio State, 1990) Record...1-0, first season, 2003 Alamo Bowl at NU Assistant Coaches Barney Cotton...Associate Head Coach/Offensive Line Ted Gilmore...Assistant Head Coach... Wide Receivers, Recruiting Coordinator Carl Pelini...Defensive Coordinator/Defensive Line Shawn Watson...Offensive Coordinator/Quarterbacks Tim Beck... Running Backs Ron Brown... Tight Ends Mike Ekeler... Linebackers John Papuchis... Defensive Ends Marvin Sanders... Secondary Jeff Jamrog...Assistant A.D./Football Operations Curt Baldus...Offensive Graduate Assistant Ross Watson... Defensive Graduate Assistant James Dobson... Head Football Strength Coach General Information Location: Lincoln, Neb., Population: 235,594 Founded: 1869 Enrollment: 22,000 Football Stadium/Field: Memorial Stadium (1923)/ Tom Osborne Field (1998) Capacity: 81,067 Surface: FieldTurf Nickname: Cornhuskers or Huskers Colors: Scarlet and Cream Conference: Big 12 Chancellor: Harvey S. Perlman, J.D. Institutional Rep.: Josephine Potuto, J.D. Athletic Director: Tom Osborne Media Relations Director/Football Contact: Keith Mann Media Relations Director of Operations: Jeff Griesch Assistant MRD: Shamus McKnight, Jerry Trickie, Matt Smith Media Relations Admin. Assistant: Vicki Cartwright Athletic Department Photographer: Scott Bruhn Design Specialist: Annie Wood Interns: Amil Anderson, Jeremy Foote Student Asst's: Tyler DeBoer, Brandon Gries, Nate Pohlen, Scott Pulverenti, Bonnie Ryan, Jess Schwager Administration President: J.B. Milliken Board of Regents Randy Ferlic, M.D., Omaha Chuck Hassebrook, Lyons Howard Hawks, Omaha Jim McClurg, Ph.D, Lincoln Bob Phares, North Platte Kent Schroeder, J.D., Kearney Bob Whitehouse, Papillion Charles S. Wilson, M.D., Lincoln Student Regents Amber Lewis, UNK David Solheim, UNL Curtis McKnight, UNMC Lucas Seiler, UNO 2008 NEBR ASK A SPRING FOOTBALL 2008 Nebraska Schedule Date Opponent... Site... Stadium...Series Aug. 30 Western Michigan... Lincoln, Neb... Memorial Stadium...first meeting Sept. 6 San Jose State... Lincoln, Neb... Memorial Stadium...NU, 1-0 Sept. 13 New Mexico State... Lincoln, Neb... Memorial Stadium...NU, 2-0 Sept. 27 Virginia Tech... Lincoln, Neb... Memorial Stadium...NU, 1-0 Oct. 4 Missouri (HC)... Lincoln, Neb... Memorial Stadium...NU, Oct. 11 at Texas Tech... Lubbock, Texas... Jones AT&T Stadium...NU, 7-2 Oct. 18 at Iowa State... Ames, Iowa... Jack Trice Stadium...NU, Oct. 25 Baylor... Lincoln, Neb... Memorial Stadium...NU, 9-1 Nov. 1 at Oklahoma... Norman, Okla... Oklahoma Memorial Stadium...OU, Nov. 8 Kansas... Lincoln, Neb... Memorial Stadium...NU, Nov. 15 at Kansas State... Manhattan, Kan... Bill Snyder Family Stadium...NU, Nov. 28 Colorado... Lincoln, Neb... Memorial Stadium...NU, Dec. 6 Big 12 Championship... Kansas City, Mo... Arrowhead Stadium 2007 Nebraska Schedule and Results (5-7, 2-6 in Big 12) Date Opponent (Rank) Television Result Attendance Sept. 1 Nevada ABC W, ,078 Sept. 8 at Wake Forest ESPN W, ,483 Sept. 15 USC (1) ABC L, ,959 Sept. 22 Ball State FSN PPV W, ,294 Sept. 29 Iowa State W, ,703 Oct. 6 at Missouri (17) ESPN L, ,049 Oct. 13 Oklahoma State FSN PPV L, ,334 Oct. 20 Texas A&M L, ,473 Oct. 27 at Texas (17) ABC L, ,968 Nov. 3 at Kansas (8) FSN L, ,910 Nov. 10 Kansas State Versus W, ,665 Nov. 23 at Colorado ABC L, ,403 Huskers Briefly in 2007 General Overall Record: 5-7 Big 12 Record: 2-6 Home: 4-3; Away: 1-4 Total Attendance: 883,319 Average Attendance: 73,610 Home Attendance: 591,506 Average Home Attendance: 84,501 Offense (National Rank) Yards Rushing/Game: (66) Yards Rushing/Att.: 4.2 Passing Yards/Game: (7) Passing Yards/Att./Comp.: 3,886/481/296 Total Net Yards/Game: (9) Total Net Yards/Att.: 6.3 Points/Game: (28) Turnover Margin/Game: (117) Defense (National Rank) Yards Rushing/Game: (116) Passing Yards/Game: (84) Total Net Yards/Game: (112) Total Net Yards/Attempt: 6.1 Points/Game: (114) Pass Efficiency Defense: (75) 2007 Big 12 Conference Standings North Division Team Big 12 Overall 1. Missouri Kansas Colorado Kansas State Nebraska Iowa State South Division 1. Oklahoma Texas Oklahoma State Texas Tech Texas A&M Baylor Big 12 Championship Game Oklahoma 38, Missouri 17 (San Antonio, Texas) Nebraska's 2008 Non-Conference Opponents Team Overall Bowl Western Michigan 5-7 San Jose State 5-7 New Mexico State 4-9 Virginia Tech 11-3 Orange

2 2008 NEBRASKA SPRING FOOTBALL 2008 Husker Spring Rosters Alphabetical Roster Lettermen in Bold; *-Indicates Letters Earned No. Name Pos. Ht. Wt. Yr. Hometown (High School/College) 95 * Allen, Pierre DE So. Denver, Colo. (Thomas Jefferson) 21 * Amukamara, Prince DB So. Glendale, Ariz. (Apollo) 4 * Asante, Larry S Jr. Alexandria, Va. (Hayfield/Coffeyville CC) 56 * Barfield, Shukree DT Sr. Camden, N.J. (Garden City CC) 66 Barrett, Cruz OL So. Daytona Beach, Fla. (Mainland) 56 Baumgartner, Justin LS Sr. Cheyenne, Wyo. (Chadron State/Laramie County CC) 57 Bergland, Dennis OL So. Plattsmouth, Neb. 14 * Blue, Anthony CB So. Cedar Hill, Texas 1 Brooks, Chris WR Jr. St. Louis, Mo. (Hazelwood East) 72 * Burkes, Jaivorio OL So. Phoenix, Ariz. (Moon Valley) 82 ** Cammack, Wes WR Jr. DeWitt, Neb. (Tri-County) 58 Caputo, Mike OL RFr. Omaha, Neb. (Millard North) 8 Cassidy, Austin S RFr. Lincoln, Neb. (Southwest) 19 * Castille, Quentin IB So. LaPorte, Texas 31 Covey, Nick LB Jr. Glendale, Ariz. (Mountain Ridge) 94 Crick, Jared DE RFr. Cozad, Neb. 6 ** Culbert, Major S Jr. Harbor City, Calif. (Nathaniel Narbonne) 15 Davis, Beau QB Sr. Venice, Calif. 52 ** Dillard, Phillip LB Jr. Tulsa, Okla. (Jenks) 97 * Dixon, Kevin DT Sr. Sebring, Fla. (Sebring/Garden City CC) 83 Donahue, Matt WR So. Fremont, Neb. 16 Ebke, Jim QB So. Lincoln, Neb. (East/South Dakota State) 74 Escamilla, Taylor DT RFr. Fremont, Neb. (Archbishop Bergan) 92 Fahie, Tyrone DE So. Virginia Beach, Va. (Ocean Lakes) 27 Ford, Ryan DB Jr. Winfield, Ala. 12 ** Ganz, Joe QB Sr. Palos Heights, Ill. (Amos Alonzo Stagg) 41 Gillaspie, Aaron FB So. Littleton, Colo. 11 Gilleylen, Curenski WR RFr. Leander, Texas 34 *** Glenn, Cody IB Sr. Rusk, Texas 41 * Grove, Thomas LB So. Arlington, Neb. 28 * Hagg, Eric DB So. Peoria, Ariz. (Ironwood) 80 Harvey, David DE Jr. LaPlata, Md. (McDonough) 30 Hays, Mike LB RFr. Papillion, Neb. (Papillion-LaVista) 10 * Helu Jr., Roy IB So. Danville, Calif. (San Ramon Valley) 90 * Henery, Alex PK/P So. Omaha, Neb. (Burke) 8 * Henry, Will WR So. El Paso, Texas (J.M. Hanks) 85 Hetzer, Tyson TE Jr. Redding, Calif. (Anderson/Citrus College) 67 ** Hickman, Jacob OL Jr. Bakersfield, Calif. (Centennial) 80 Hill, Ryan TE RFr. Arvada, Colo. (West) 18 ** Holt, Menelik WR Jr. San Diego, Calif. (St. Augustine) 61 *** Huff, Mike OL Sr. Ralston, Neb. 69 Iske, Cory OL Fr. Omaha, Neb. (Millard West) 91 Jensen, Seth DT So. Fort Morgan, Colo. 31 Jones, Austin IB RFr. Aurora, Colo. 73 * Jones, D.J. OL So. Omaha, Neb. (Central) 78 Jones, Marcel OL RFr. Phoenix, Ariz. (Trevor Browne) 54 Koehler, Colton LB Jr. Harvard, Neb. 20 * Kunalic, Adi PK So. Fort Worth, Texas (North Crowley) 12 * Lawrence, Blake LB So. Shawnee Mission, Kan. (Shawnee Mission West) 36 ** Lawson, Thomas FB Sr. Parker, Colo. (Ponderosa) 3 Lee, Zac QB So. San Francisco, Calif. (St. Ignatius Prep/San Francisco City College) 48 Legate, Tyler FB So. Neligh, Neb. (Neligh-Oakdale/South Dakota) 88 Lester, Ben WR RFr. Tecumseh, Neb. 75 Lingenfelter, Luke DE RFr. Plainview, Neb. 5 *** Lucky, Marlon IB Sr. North Hollywood, Calif. 45 Makovicka, Justin FB So. Ulysses, Neb. (East Butler) 63 * Martin, Ben DT So. Lincoln, Neb. (Southwest) 59 Martin, Jay LB RFr. Waverly, Neb. 71 Masin, Mike OL RFr. Lincoln, Neb. (Southeast) 36 May, Matthew S RFr. Imperial, Neb. (Chase County) 44 * McNeill, Mike TE So. Kirkwood, Mo. 32 Mendoza, Marcus IB RFr. Houston, Texas (Spring Woods) 38 Moore, Kyle LB So. Elkhorn, Neb. 90 Moore, Terrence DT RFr. New Orleans, La. (McDonogh 35) 5 * Murillo, Armando CB Sr. Tampa, Fla. (Robinson/Eastern Arizona CC) Numerical Roster No. Name...Position 1 Chris Brooks... WR 2 Patrick Witt...QB 3 ** Rickey Thenarse...S 3 Zac Lee...QB 4 * Larry Asante...S 5 *** Marlon Lucky... IB 5 * Armando Murillo...CB 6 * Major Culbert...S 7 Kody Spano...QB 8 * Will Henry... WR 8 Austin Cassidy...S 10 * Roy Helu Jr... IB 11 Curenski Gilleylen... WR 12 ** Joe Ganz...QB 12 * Blake Lawrence... LB 14 * Anthony Blue...CB 15 Beau Davis...QB 16 Jim Ebke...QB 17 *** Todd Peterson... WR 18 ** Menelik Holt... WR 18 Shawn Sullivan... DB 19 * Quentin Castille... IB 20 * Adi Kunalic... PK 21 * Prince Amukamara...DB 22 * Anthony West...CB 23 * Latravis Washington... LB 24 * Niles Paul... WR 24 Adam Watson... DB 27 Ryan Ford... DB 27 * Kenny Wilson... IB 28 * Eric Hagg...DB 30 Mike Hays... FB 31 Nick Covey...LB 31 Austin Jones...IB 32 Marcus Mendoza...IB 33 ** Matt O'Hanlon...S 34 *** Cody Glenn... IB 35 Austin Stafford...LB 36 ** Thomas Lawson... FB 36 Matthew May...S 37 *** Jake Wesch... PK 37 Kevin Thomsen... FB 38 Kyle Moore...LB 39 Lance Thorell... DB 41 Aaron Gillaspie... FB 41 * Thomas Grove... LB 43 *** Ty Steinkuhler... DT 44 * Mike McNeill... TE 45 Justin Makovicka... FB 46 Ben Tasa... TE 47 William Yancy... DE 48 Tyler Legate... FB 49 * Dreu Young... TE 52 ** Phillip Dillard... LB 53 * Tyler Wortman... LB 54 Colton Koehler...LB 56 * Shukree Barfield... DT 56 Justin Baumgartner...LS 57 Dennis Bergland... OL 57 Jeff Sayre...LB 58 Mike Caputo... OL 59 Jay Martin...LB 61 *** Mike Huff... OL 63 * Ben Martin... DT 65 * Mike Smith... OL 66 Cruz Barrett... OL 67 ** Jacob Hickman... OL 68 * Keith Williams... OL 2

3 69 Cory Iske... OL 70 *** Matt Slauson... OL 71 Mike Masin... OL 72 * Jaivorio Burkes... OL 73 * D.J. Jones... OL 74 Taylor Escamilla... DL 75 Luke Lingenfelter... DE 76 *** Lydon Murtha... OL 78 Marcel Jones... OL 80 David Harvey... DE 80 Ryan Hill... TE 82 ** Wes Cammack... WR 82 ** T.J. O'Leary... LS 83 Matt Donahue... WR 84 Xavier Rucker... WR 85 Tyson Hetzer... TE 87 *** Nate Swift... WR 88 *** Clayton Sievers... DE 88 Ben Lester... WR 89 *** Hunter Teafatiller... TE 89 Jonathon Santin... DE 90 * Alex Henery... PK 90 Terrence Moore... DT 91 Seth Jensen... DT 92 Tyrone Fahie... DL 93 ** Ndamukong Suh... DT 94 Jared Crick... DE 95 * Pierre Allen... DE 97 ** Dan Titchener...P 97 * Kevin Dixon... DT 98 *** Zach Potter... DE 99 *** Barry Turner... DE 2008 NEBR ASK A SPRING FOOTBALL 76 *** Murtha, Lydon OL Sr. Hutchinson, Minn. 33 ** O Hanlon, Matt S Sr. Bellevue, Neb. (Bellevue East) 82 ** O'Leary, T.J. LS Sr. Omaha, Neb. (Millard North/New Mexico State) 24 * Paul, Niles WR So. Omaha, Neb. (North) 17 *** Peterson, Todd WR Sr. Grand Island, Neb. (Central Catholic) 98 *** Potter, Zach DE Sr. Omaha, Neb. (Creighton Prep) 84 Rucker, Xavier WR So. Minneapolis, Minn. (Breck School) 89 Santin, Jonathon DE RFr. Fullerton, Neb. 57 Sayre, Jeff LB RFr. Barrington, Ill. 88 *** Sievers, Clayton DE Sr. Elkhorn, Neb. 70 *** Slauson, Matt OL Sr. Colorado Springs, Colo. (Air Force Prep) 65 * Smith, Mike OL So. Las Vegas, Nev. (Palo Verde) 7 Spano, Kody QB Fr. Stephenville, Texas 35 Stafford, Austin LB RFr. Hayward, Calif. 43 *** Steinkuhler, Ty DT Sr. Lincoln, Neb. (Southwest) 93 ** Suh, Ndamukong DT Jr. Portland, Ore. (Grant) 18 Sullivan, Shawn DB RFr. Brenham, Texas 87 *** Swift, Nate WR Sr. Hutchinson, Minn. 46 Tasa, Ben TE So. Humphrey, Neb. (St. Francis) 89 *** Teafatiller, Hunter TE Sr. Kingsburg, Calif. (San Joaquin Memorial) 3 ** Thenarse, Rickey S Jr. Los Angeles, Calif. (Jordan) 37 Thomsen, Kevin FB RFr. Elkhorn, Neb. 39 Thorell, Lance DB RFr. Loomis, Neb. 97 ** Titchener, Dan P Sr. Cheyenne, Wyo. (East) 99 *** Turner, Barry DE Sr. Antioch, Tenn. (Brentwood Academy) 23 * Washington, Latravis LB So. Bradenton, Fla. (Bayshore) 24 Watson, Adam DB So. Lincoln, Neb. (Niwot [Colo.]) 37 *** Wesch, Jake PK Sr. North Bend, Neb. 22 * West, Anthony CB So. San Diego, Calif. (Point Loma) 68 * Williams, Keith OL So. Florissant, Mo. (McClure North) 27 * Wilson, Kenny IB Sr. Liberal, Kan. (Butler County CC) 2 Witt, Patrick QB RFr. Wylie, Texas 53 * Wortman, Tyler LB Sr. Grand Island, Neb. (Central Catholic) 47 Yancy, William DE RFr. Glendale, Ariz. (Ironwood) 49 * Young, Dreu TE So. Cozad, Neb.

4 2008 NEBRASKA SPRING FOOTBALL Husker Experience Returning and Lost Experience Returning and Lost Briefly Total Starters Returning: 14 (6 offense, 6 defense, 2 kickers) Total Starters Lost: 12 (7 offense, 5 defense) Offensive Starters Returning (No. of 2007 starts): 6 OG Jacob Hickman (9); OG Mike Huff (6); IB Marlon Lucky (12); OT Lydon Murtha (8); OL Matt Slauson (8); WR Nate Swift (8) Other Offensive Players with 2007 Starting Experience (No. of starts): OT Jaivorio Burkes (3); QB Joe Ganz (3); FB Thomas Lawson (2); WR Todd Peterson (2) Offensive Starters Lost: 7 C Brett Byford (12); TE Sean Hill (6); QB Sam Keller (9); OT Carl Nicks (11); WR Terrence Nunn (10); TE/HB J.B. Phillips (10); WR Maurice Purify (4) Defensive Starters Returning: 6 S Larry Asante (10); CB Armando Murillo (12); DE Zach Potter (11); DT Ty Steinkuhler (8); NT Ndamukong Suh (11); DE Barry Turner (11) Other Defensive Players with 2007 Starting Experience (No. of starts): NT Shukree Barfield (1); CB Anthony Blue (2); LB Phillip Dillard (2); DT Kevin Dixon (3) Defensive Starters Lost: 5 S Tierre Green (12); CB Cortney Grixby (9); LB Corey McKeon (10); LB Steve Octavien (8): LB Bo Ruud (10) Starting Kickers Returning: 2 PK Alex Henery/Adi Kunalic; P Dan Titchener Starting Kickers Lost: none Starting Specialists Returning: LS T.J. O'Leary; H Jake Wesch Starting Specialists Lost: PR/KOR Cortney Grixby; KOR Andre Jones Total Lettermen Returning: 52 (24 offense, 23 defense, 5 specialists) Total Lettermen Lost: 28 (14 offense, 14 defense) Lettermen Returning (52)/Lost (28) Starters in Bold (Number of 2007 starts) Offense (24 Lettermen Returning/6 Starters) WR: Wes Cammack** Will Henry* Menelik Holt** Niles Paul* Todd Peterson*** (2) Nate Swift*** (8) OL: Jaivorio Burkes* (3) Jacob Hickman** (9) Mike Huff*** (6) D.J. Jones* Lydon Murtha*** (8) Matt Slauson*** (8) Mike Smith* Keith Williams* TE: Mike McNeill* Hunter Teafatiller*** Dreu Young* QB: Joe Ganz** (3) FB: Thomas Lawson** (2) IB: Quentin Castille* Cody Glenn*** Roy Helu Jr.* Marlon Lucky*** (12) Kenny Wilson* (14 Lettermen Lost/7 Starters) WR: Dan Erickson*** (1) Frantz Hardy*** (1) Terrence Nunn**** (10) Maurice Purify** (4) OL: Brett Byford** (12) Victory Haines* Carl Nicks** (11) Jordan Picou* TE: Sean Hill* (6) Josh Mueller**** (1) J.B. Phillips**** (10) QB: Sam Keller* (9) FB: Andy Sand* (3) Matt Senske* IB: none Defense (23 Lettermen Returning/6 Starters) DL: Pierre Allen* Shukree Barfield* (1) Kevin Dixon* (4) Ben Martin* Zach Potter*** (11) Clayton Sievers*** Ty Steinkuhler*** (8) Ndamukong Suh** (11) Barry Turner*** (11) LB: Major Culbert** Phillip Dillard** (2) Thomas Grove* Blake Lawrence* Latravis Washington* Tyler Wortman* DB: Prince Amukamara* Larry Asante* (10) Anthony Blue* (2) Eric Hagg* Armando Murillo* (12) Matt O'Hanlon** Rickey Thenarse** Anthony West* (14 Lettermen Lost/5 Starters) DE: Andy Poulosky** Thomas Rice* DT: Brandon Johnson** LB: Lance Brandenburgh**** (4) Corey McKeon*** (10) Steve Octavien** (8) Bo Ruud**** (10) DB: Zack Bowman** (4) Ben Eisenhart*** (1) Tierre Green**** (12) Cortney Grixby**** (9) Andre Jones** Tyler Kester* Bryan Wilson** (1) Kickers/Specialists (4 Lettermen Returning/2 Starters) PK: Alex Henery* (12 as PK) Adi Kunalic* (12 as KO specialist) Jake Wesch*** P: Dan Titchener** (12) (0 Lettermen Lost) Other Specialists Returning Snapper: T.J. O'Leary** (12) Holder: Jake Wesch*** (12) Husker 2007 Statistical Leaders (returnees in bold) Rushing G/S Att. Yds. YPC YPG Long TD Marlon Lucky, IB 12/ , Quentin Castille, IB 12/ Roy Helu Jr., IB 7/ Passing G/S Att-Cmp-Int Pct. Yds YPG TDs Sam Keller, QB 9/ , Joe Ganz, QB 6/ , Receiving G/S No. Yds YPR YPG Long TDs Marlon Lucky, IB 12/ Maurice Purify, WR 11/ Nate Swift, WR 12/ Terrence Nunn, WR 12/ Scoring TDs PAT1 PAT2 FG Saf. TP Marlon Lucky, IB Alex Henery, PK Maurice Purify, WR Punting G No. Yds Avg. Net Long Dan Titchener , Punt Returns G No. Yds YPR Long TDs Andre Jones Kickoff Returns G No. Yds YPR Long TDs Cortney Grixby , Interceptions G/S No. Yds YPR Long TDs Bo Ruud, LB 10/ Cortney Grixby, CB 12/ Tackles G/GS UT TOT TFL Sacks PBU Int.-Yds Steve Octavien, LB 12/ Larry Asante, S 12/ Corey McKeon, LB 12/

5 Nebraska Coaching Staff Bo Pelini Head Coach First Season Bo Pelini takes control of the Nebraska football program after a highly-successful five-year run as a collegiate defensive coordinator, including orchestrating Nebraska s defensive efforts in Pelini will open the 2008 campaign with a 1-0 career record at Nebraska, serving as the Huskers interim head coach for a victory over Michigan State in the 2003 Alamo Bowl. Since being named head coach by Athletic Director Tom Osborne on Dec. 2, Pelini has instilled a disciplined approach on and off the field, while also embracing the traditions of the Husker football program. The 40-year-old Ohio State graduate assembled a coaching staff that had close ties to both Pelini and the Nebraska football family. Pelini's Nebraska staff includes three former Nebraska players, and six full-time assistant coaches with previous experience at Nebraska. His staff also includes seven coaches who have previously worked alongside Pelini, including five members of the 2003 Husker staff. The Husker coaching staff's first order of business was to pull together its 2008 recruiting class. Pelini lead a recruiting charge that allowed Nebraska to sign 28 talented prospects, including 14 players on each side of the football. Pelini also immediately made a commitment to re-establishing the importance of the storied Nebraska walk-on program. The Cornhusker staff has received pledges from 30 players who plan to join the Huskers as walk ons when camp opens in August. Pelini has also reached out to two groups that form the backbone of the Husker program its former players and its rabid fan base. Former Cornhuskers welcomed the popular Pelini back to Lincoln, and in turn the head coach has opened his door to those that helped build the program. Pelini has also made a number of appearances around the state and connected with the nation's most loyal fans. Pelini returned to Nebraska after three seasons as the defensive coordinator at LSU. In his time on Les Miles staff, Pelini s dominant defenses helped the Tigers compile a 34-6 record, including the 2007 BCS national championship and the Southeastern Conference championship. With a SEC title game victory over Tennessee, LSU earned a spot in a Bowl Championship Series game. It marked the third time in four years that Pelini has been a part of a team that has played in a BCS game. Despite being named the Huskers' head coach on Dec. 2, Pelini successfully orchestrated the Tigers' defensive gameplan for the national championship game win over Ohio State. The win over the Buckeyes was keyed by a defense that forced three turnovers and had five sacks. The play of Pelini s defenses has been a key part of LSU s success over the past three seasons. The Tigers ranked third in the nation in total defense in 2007, surrendering an average of yards per game. LSU also ranked in the top 25 nationally in pass efficiency defense (3rd), passing yards allowed per game (9th), rush defense (14th) and scoring defense (17th). Pelini s defenses have a history of swarming to the football. That is evident in LSU forcing 36 turnovers in 2007, the third-most takeaways in the country. In fact, it was a fourth-quarter interception return for a touchdown that provided the difference in LSU s SEC title-game win over Tennessee.The Tigers 2007 defensive success is nothing new. In fact, each of Pelini s three LSU defenses ranked No. 3 nationally in total defense. Pelini s 2006 unit surrendered just yards per game, the fewest by a Tiger team since The play helped LSU to a No. 3 final national ranking, including a Sugar Bowl win over Notre Dame. LSU led the SEC in six categories and also ranked in the top five nationally in scoring defense, pass defense and pass efficiency defense. A pair of Tiger defenders earned first-team All-America honors in 2006, including safety LaRon Landry and defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey. Landry went on to become the sixth overall pick in the NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins, while Dorsey was again a standout in 2007, winning the Outland Trophy. In 2005, the Tigers allowed just yards per game, and ranked in the top 10 nationally in all four major defensive categories, including third in total defense, scoring defense and pass efficiency defense. Defensive tackles Kyle Williams and Claude Wroten were both first-team All-Americans following the season. Pelini served as the co-defensive coordinator and defensive backs coach on Bob Stoops staff at Oklahoma in 2004, helping the Sooners win a Big 12 title and reach the national championship game against USC. Oklahoma finished the season ranked sixth nationally in rush defense, 11th in scoring defense and 13th in total defense. Pelini s first collegiate full-time job came at Nebraska in As the coordinator of the Huskers Blackshirt defense, Pelini led an energized unit that finished among the Big 12 and nation s best in nearly every defensive category. Nebraska finished the year ranked first nationally in pass efficiency defense, second in scoring defense and 11th in total defense. Pelini s defense was also one of the most opportunistic in school history, tying an NU record with 47 takeaways, helping Nebraska lead the nation in turnover margin NEBR ASK A SPRING FOOTBALL His tenure in Lincoln was capped by serving as the interim head coach for Nebraska s dominant 17-3 win over Michigan State in the 2003 Alamo Bowl. NU s performance in that game reflected Pelini s personality as the Huskers controlled the line of scrimmage with the running game and the defense held MSU to just 174 total yards and a first-quarter field goal. Overall, the five college teams Pelini has been a part of have compiled an impressive record, winning at least 10 games every season. His defenses have posted eight shutouts and held the opposition to seven points or less in 26 of 66 games. Before joining the Huskers, Pelini had nine years of NFL experience, one season at a Division I university, and one year in the high school ranks. Pelini broke into the NFL in 1994 as assistant secondary coach for head coach George Seifert and the 49ers. Originally hired as a scouting assistant, Pelini was quickly promoted to defensive backs coach in the spring of Less than a year after his promotion to defensive backs coach, Pelini was coaching in the Super Bowl, helping the 49ers to a win over San Diego in Super Bowl XXIX. Pelini held that position for three years before moving to the Patriots for the 1997 season. As a member of the Patriots staff, Pelini coached the linebackers under head coach Pete Carroll. Pelini helped the Patriots go over a three-year period with the club making the playoffs twice. Pelini's efforts were highlighted with a Pro Bowl appearance by Chris Slade in 1997, the first Patriot linebacker to be named All-Pro since After three years with the Patriots, Pelini moved to the Packers, coaching linebackers for three seasons. In three years in Green Bay with head coach Mike Sherman, the Packers posted a record and advanced twice to the playoffs. In 2002, the Packer defense ranked fourth in the NFL in pass defense, allowing yards per game. Pelini got his start in coaching in 1991, serving as a graduate assistant coach at Iowa under Hayden Fry. From there he moved into the high school ranks, serving as quarterbacks coach at Cardinal Mooney High School in Youngstown, Ohio in 1993 before taking the leap to the 49ers. A standout free safety at Ohio State from 1987 to 1990, Pelini earned four letters for the Buckeyes. He was coached by Earle Bruce in 1987 and John Cooper his final three seasons. Pelini helped the Buckeyes to a 15-8 record over his final two seasons as a starter, and he was a three-time selection to the Academic All-Big Ten team. As a senior co-captain Pelini received the "Bo Rein Award," given annually to the Buckeyes most inspirational player. After earning his bachelor s degree in business marketing from Ohio State in 1990, Pelini completed his master s degree in sports administration at Ohio University in Pelini is a native of Youngstown, Ohio. He and his wife, Mary Pat, have three children, an eight-year-old son, Patrick, and two daughters, Kate, 6 and Caralyn, 4. The Bo Pelini File Birthdate: Dec. 13, 1967 in Youngstown, Ohio Wife: Mary Pat Children: Patrick, Kate, and Caralyn High School: Cardinal Mooney, '86 College: Ohio State, 1990 Playing Experience Ohio State free safety Head Coaching Experience 2003 Nebraska interim head coach, 1-0 def. Michigan St., 17-3 in Alamo Bowl Coaching Experience 1991 Iowa graduate assistant 1993 Cardinal Mooney High School quarterbacks San Francisco 49ers defensive backs New England Patriots linebackers Green Bay Packers linebackers 2003 Nebraska defensive coordinator 2004 Oklahoma co-defensive coordinator, defensive backs LSU defensive coordinator Bowl and Playoff Experience Player 1990 Hall of Fame Bowl lost to Auburn, Liberty Bowl lost to Air Force, Coach 1991 Holiday Bowl Iowa tied BYU, NFC Divisional Playoffs 49ers def. Bears, NFC Championship Game 49ers def. Cowboys, Super Bowl XXIX 49ers def. Chargers, NFC Divisional Playoffs 49ers lost to Packers, NFC Wild Card Game 49ers def. Eagles, NFC Divisional Playoffs 49ers lost to Packers, AFC Divisional Playoffs Patriots lost to Steelers, AFC Wild Card Game Patriots lost to Jaguars, NFC Wild Card Game Packers def. 49ers, NFC Divisional Playoffs Packers lost to Rams, NFC Divisional Playoffs Packers lost to Falcons, Alamo Bowl Nebraska def. Michigan State, Orange Bowl Oklahoma lost to USC, Peach Bowl LSU def. Miami, Sugar Bowl LSU def. Notre Dame, BCS Championship Game LSU def. Ohio State, 38-24

6 2008 NEBRASKA SPRING FOOTBALL Nebraska Coaching Staff Carl Pelini Defensive Coordinator/Defensive Line First Season Carl Pelini joined the Nebraska defensive staff after three seasons on Frank Solich s coaching staff at Ohio University. Pelini, the older brother of Nebraska Head Coach Bo Pelini, will serve as Nebraska s defensive coordinator and tutor the Huskers defensive linemen. Pelini is no stranger to Lincoln, having served as a defensive graduate assistant in 2003, when Bo Pelini was the defensive coordinator. Carl Pelini worked specifically with the defensive line and helped a unit that ranked second nationally in scoring and takeaways and 11th in the country in total defense. Coaching Experience Cardinal Mooney High School, Youngstown Ohio...assistant coach Kansas State...graduate assistant; restricted earnings coach Blue Valley North High School, Overland Park, Kan...assistant coach/def. coordinator Winnetonka High School, Kansas City, Mo... head coach, athletic director Fitch High School, Austintown, Ohio...head coach Nebraska... graduate assistant/defense Minnesota State...assistant coach/defensive coordinator, secondary Ohio...assistant coach/defensive line Nebraska... assistant coach/defensive coordinator, defensive line Shawn Watson Offensive Coordinator/Quarterbacks Third Season Shawn Watson is in his third season at Nebraska and his second as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. Watson has a proven track record as a successful offensive coordinator in the Big 12 Conference and has 26 overall years of college coaching experience, including a stint as head coach at Southern Illinois from 1994 to Watson was promoted to offensive coordinator before in 2007, and helped the Huskers throw for a school-record 3,886 yards, including the top three passing days in school history. The 2007 Nebraska offense ranked ninth nationally at yards per game, the best average at NU since 1997, and also finished seventh in passing offense. Watson came to Nebraska after seven seasons on Gary Barnett s Colorado coaching staff from 1999 to 2005, including the last six as the Buffs offensive coordinator. Coaching Experience Southern Illinois... graduate assistant coach Illinois... graduate assistant coach; assistant coach/tighte ends, tackles, receivers Miami (Ohio) University..assistant coach/tight ends, receivers, quarterbacks, recruiting Northwestern...assistant coach/quarterbacks Colorado...assistant coach/quarterbacks, offensive coordinator Nebraska... assistant coach/tight ends, recruiting coordinator Nebraska...assistant coach/offensive coordinator, quarterbacks Barney Cotton Associate Head Coach/Offensive Line First Season Barney Cotton begins his second stint on the Nebraska coaching staff in 2008, and will serve as the Huskers' offensive line coach. Cotton will also serve as Nebraska s associate head coach, assisting with Head Coach Bo Pelini with a number of administrative issues. A former Husker lineman, Cotton first served on the NU staff in 2003, when he was the offensive coordinator and offensive line coach. The play of Cotton s offensive unit helped Nebraska to a 10-3 record and a victory over Michigan State in the Alamo Bowl. Following his one year at Nebraska, Cotton served as the offensive coordinator at Iowa State from 2004 to 2006 and directed a potent ISU attack. Before his four years as an offensive coordinator in the Big 12, Cotton was an assistant coach at New Mexico State and St. Cloud State and was the head coach at Hastings College in 1995 and Coaching Experience: St. Cloud State...assistant coach/offensive coordinator, offensive line Hastings College...head coach New Mexico State...assistant head coach/offensive coordinator, offensive line Nebraska...assistant coach/offensive coordinator, offensive line Iowa State...assistant coach/offensive coordinator, offensive line Ames (Iowa) High School... volunteer offensive assistant Nebraska...associate head coach/offensive line Ted Gilmore Assistant Head Coach/Wide Receivers Fourth Season Ted Gilmore enters his fourth season on the Nebraska coaching staff in He has served as the receivers coach for each of his three years, while also handling the role of recruiting coordinator the past two years. Gilmore added the role of assistant head coach on Bo Pelini s staff. The Husker receivers have posted record-setting numbers under Gilmore, helping the NU passing game rank among the nation s best. In 2007, the Nebraska offense was seventh nationally in passing and ninth in total offense. Gilmore came to Nebraska after spending two seasons on the coaching staff at Colorado, where he also served as receivers coach. Before his stint in Boulder, Gilmore spent two years as the wide receivers coach for Coach Joe Tiller at Purdue, where he coached a pair of Biletnikoff semifinalists. He also had assistant coaching stints at Houston (2000), Kansas (1999) and Wyoming ( ). Coaching Experience: Wyoming... graduate assistant/receivers/tight ends; assistant coach/receivers Kansas... assistant coach/tight ends Houston...assistant coach/wide receivers Purdue...assistant coach/wide receivers Colorado...assistant coach/wide receivers Nebraska...assistant coach/wide receivers, recruiting coordinator Nebraska...assistant head coach/wide receivers, recruiting coordinator Tim Beck Running Backs First Season A veteran of the Big 12 North Division, Tim Beck joined the Nebraska coaching staff after spending the previous three seasons at Kansas. Beck will serve as the running backs coach at Nebraska and has extensive recruiting ties in the Texas high school ranks. Beck was KU s receivers coach each of his three seasons in Lawrence, and was promoted to pass game coordinator in Last season KU featured one of the nation s most potent offenses en route to a 12-1 record and No. 7 national ranking. Before going to KU, Beck was one of the most respected high school coaches in the state of Texas. He also worked in the prep ranks in Arizona and had college coaching stops at Missouri State, Illinois State and Kansas State. Coaching Experience: Miramar High School, Miramar, Fla...assistant coach Illinois State...assistant coach/outside linebackers Kansas State... graduate assistant coach Saguaro High School, Scottsdale, Ariz...head coach Missouri State... assistant coach/offensive coordinator R.L. Turner High School, Carrollton, Texas...head coach Mansfield Summitt High School, Mansfield, Texas...head coach Kansas... assistant coach/wide receivers, passing game coordinator Nebraska... assistant coach/running backs Ron Brown Tight Ends First Season Veteran college assistant Ron Brown re-joins the Nebraska coaching staff for the 2008 season, and will serve as the Huskers tight ends coach. Brown is in his second tour of duty with the Huskers after serving as an assistant coach for 17 seasons from 1987 to 2003 under Tom Osborne and Frank Solich. Brown served as receivers coach for his entire tenure and also tutored the tight ends during his first 16 seasons on the NU staff. Brown spent the past four years serving as the Nebraska State Director of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. During his time as an assistant with the Huskers, Brown's receivers were known for their tenacity and downfield blocking. The blocking skills of Brown s receivers played a key part in Nebraska collecting nine NCAA rushing titles in Brown s first Nebraska coaching stint. Coaching Experience: New Jersey Rams... defensive coordinator Brown...head freshman coach Brown...assistant coach Nebraska... assistant coach/wide receivers, tight ends Nebraska... assistant coach/tight ends

7 Mike Ekeler Linebackers First Season Mike Ekeler joins the Husker staff after spending the past three seasons with the LSU football program. A native Nebraskan, Ekeler will coach the Husker linebackers. Ekeler spent the past three seasons as a graduate assistant and intern working for Pelini and the LSU defense. Ekeler helped the Tigers win the 2007 SEC Championship and the national championship. The 2007 season marked the third time in five years Ekeler was part of team that reached the BCS title game. In each of Ekeler s three seasons assisting Pelini with the LSU defense, the Tigers finished third nationally in total defense. Ekeler spent the 2003 and 2004 seasons as a defensive graduate assistant at Oklahoma on Coach Bob Stoops staff. In both of his seasons at OU, the Sooners participated in the national championship game. Coaching Experience Omaha Skutt High School... volunteer coach Manhattan (Kan.) High School...assistant coach Oklahoma... graduate assistant/defense LSU...graduate assistant coach, intern/defense Nebraska... assistant coach/linebackers John Papuchis Defensive Ends First Season John Papuchis joins the Nebraska coaching staff after spending the past four seasons on the football staff at LSU. Papuchis will serve as the Huskers defensive ends coach. Papuchis served as a defensive intern for the Tigers, assisting in every aspect of the defensive game plan and scouting reports. His efforts helped the Tigers rank among the nation s top defenses in each of the past three seasons. The 2007 Tiger defense was the catalyst behind LSU capturing the SEC title and BCS National Championship. Papuchis had a three-year stint as a graduate assistant at Kansas from 2001 to In 2001, he worked with the Jayhawk secondary and then assisted with the linebackers. In his final season in Lawrence, Papuchis helped the Jayhawks earn a berth in the Tangerine Bowl. Coaching Experience Kansas... graduate assistant/defense LSU...defensive intern/graduate assistant Nebraska... assistant coach/defensive ends Marvin Sanders Secondary First Season Former Nebraska defensive back and assistant coach Marvin Sanders returns to the Cornhusker program as the secondary coach on Bo Pelin s staff. Sanders has 15 years of experience in the college ranks, including serving as the NU defensive backs coach in Sanders' secondary played a key role in Nebraska setting a school-record with 47 takeaways in Sophomore safety Josh Bullocks had a school-record 10 interceptions and earned first-team All-America honors. Following his one season with the Huskers, Sanders was the defensive coordinator for three seasons at North Carolina. Sanders also has previous coaching stints at Colorado State, New Mexico State, UNO, Minnesota-Morris and Nebraska Wesleyan. Sanders earned three letters as a defensive back at Nebraska from 1987 to 1989, playing for Tom Osborne and secondary coach George Darlington. Coaching Experience Nebraska Wesleyan... assistant coach/secondary Minnesota-Morris... assistant coach/secondary Nebraska-Omaha...assistant coach/secondary, defensive coordinator Nebraska-Omaha... assistant coach/defensive coordinator New Mexico State...assistant coach/defensive ends, outside linebackers Colorado State... assistant coach/secondary Nebraska...assistant coach/defensive backs North Carolina...assistant coach/defensive coordinator, defensive backs Nebraska... assistant coach/secondary 2008 NEBR ASK A SPRING FOOTBALL Nebraska Staff Jeff Jamrog Assistant A.D. for Football Operations Curt Baldus Graduate Assistant Coach/Offense Tim McFadden Director of Program Development Dusty Alves Football Video Coordinator Mark Mayer Head Football Athletic Trainer James Dobson Head Football Strength Coach Ross Watson Graduate Assistant Coach/Defense Wince Morris Football Operations Assistant Brian Lehmann Director of Sports Nutrition Jay Terry Equipment Manager

8 2008 NEBRASKA SPRING FOOTBALL 2008 Nebraska Football Spring Notebook Pelini Era Begins With 2008 Spring Practice Nebraska will be on the field 15 times in March and April in the much-anticipated debut of Bo Pelini as the Huskers' head coach. The Huskers capped their eight-week winter conditioning session on Friday, March 14, and began spring drills following Spring Break. During spring practice the Huskers will regularly hit the field on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, with the lone exception a Thursday practice in the final week of workouts. The Red-White Spring Game will signal the end of spring practice with kickoff on Saturday, April 19 set for 1 p.m. at Memorial Stadium. A near capacity crowd is expected for the contest. Pelini will welcome back 14 starters for his first season as the Huskers' head coach. Nebraska returns six starters on the offensive side of the ball, including four veteran offensive linemen who made at least six starts in Also back on the offense are senior I-back Marlon Lucky, the top returning rusher in the Big 12 Conference, and senior wide receiver Nate Swift, who could become Husker Spring Schedule Week 1 March 26, 28, 29 Week 2 March 31, April 2, 4, 5 Week 3 April 7, 9, 11, 12 Week 4 April 14, 16, 17 Red-White Spring Game Saturday, April 19, 1 p.m. Fall Key Dates Monday, Aug. 3 Players report Monday, Aug. 25 First Day of Classes Saturday, Aug. 30 Season Opener vs. Western Michigan, Memorial Stadium Nebraska's all-time leading receiver in Although he started only three games last season, senior quarterback Joe Ganz made the most of his opportunity, throwing for more than 400 yards in each of the final three games. Defensively, the front four of the Nebraska defense returns intact for the 2008 season. Senior defensive ends Zach Potter and Barry Turner lead the way after productive careers to this point. In the secondary, cornerback Armando Murillo and safety Larry Asante made a big impact in their first season in the program in Nebraska also returns its starting place-kicker and punter and expects the kicking game to be a strength in Nebraska Hoping for Record Spring Game Crowd In recent years, Nebraska fans have turned out in large numbers for the Red-White Spring Game, another example of the loyalty of the Husker fan base. During each of the past four years, Nebraska has drawn at least 54,000 fans for the spring game, and this year's game promises to feature another large crowd. The Huskers are hoping to produce a record spring game crowd in 2008, and if advance ticket sales are any indication that is a distinct possiblity. As of March 18, Nebraska had sold 46,000 advance tickets for the game. This year marked the first time Nebraska offered reserved seating for the spring game, and the majority of the 25,000 reserved seats were bought by Husker fans in the first 48 hours tickets were on sale. The Nebraska Ticket Office reported that more than 5,700 tickets were sold on-line at Huskers.com in the first hour they were available and more than 22,000 tickets were sold overall on the first day of availability. By comparison, approximately 27,000 tickets were sold in advance in 2007, when a crowd of better than 54,000 fans came to Memorial Stadium for the game. Nebraska drew a record 63,416 fans for the spring game in 2005, and has seen a total of 236,536 fans (59,134 average) attend the Red-White game during the past four years. Red-White Game Attendance Figures Year Attendance , , , ,288 Once again in 2008, there is no construction in progress at Memorial Stadium, meaning the entire stadium will be available for seating. Husker fans are encouraged to buy their tickets for the Spring Game on-line at Huskers.com. They can also purchase tickets by calling the Nebraska Athletic Ticket Office at BIG RED. UNL students, faculty and staff will be admitted free with their UNL identification. Children six and under are also free, as are all youth willing to take a Drug Free pledge on the Memorial Stadium FieldTurf at halftime. New Husker Staff Has Familiarity with Nebraska, Big 12 Two assistant coaches returned from Nebraska's 2007 coaching staff in offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach Shawn Watson and wide receivers coach Ted Gilmore. However, they are far from the only coaches who have familiarity with Nebraska and the Big 12 Conference. Led by head coach Bo Pelini, every member of the 2008 Nebraska coaching staff has previous experience working in the Big 12. Bo Pelini is one of eight full-time staff members who will enter the season with previous experience on the Nebraska sideline. Below is a brief run-down of the Nebraska and Big 12 experience of Pelini's first Husker staff. Head Coach Bo Pelini Nebraska: 2003, Defensive Coordinator, interim Head Coach for Alamo Bowl Big 12: 2004, Oklahoma defensive coordinator Offense Shawn Watson, Offensive Coordinator/Quarterbacks Nebraska: , Offensive Coordinator/Quarterbacks, Tight Ends ('06) Big 12: , Colorado Offensive Coordinator/Quarterbacks Barney Cotton, Associate Head Coach/Offensive Line Nebraska: 2003, Offensive Line Coach/Offensive Coordinator Big 12: , Iowa State Offensive Line Coach/Offensive Coordinator Bo Talks Spring Ball Nebraska Head Coach Bo Pelini gives his thoughts on several topics related to the his first spring practice as Nebraska head coach. On expectations for spring practice: "We want to start building a foundation on both sides of the ball and establishing the principles it is going to take for us to be successful." On practice time for players: "Everyone will get equal reps from top to bottom. Everyone will be given an opportunity and the most important thing is we come out of the spring knowing what each guy can do." On progress he hopes to make in the spring: "Our job is to take guys in the program and develop them. Players are going to grow and you have to keep giving them opportunities to show what they can do. Right now that is easy for us as a staff. Right now we are just anxious to get out there and coach them and see how they respond to teaching and what we are trying to do." On fitting players into his defensive system: "Our job is not to fit players to the system, but to fit our system to the players. We have to make sure we put players in a position where they can be successful. That is the key." On amount of practice time with top units facing each other: "I'm sure there will be some aspect of 1 vs. 1. It is hard to commit to that right now, but that will be part of what we do." On the success of Nebraska's winter conditioning program: "We know we've made significant gains and we are heading in the right direction. You can see a difference." On dividing his own practice time between offense and defense: "Obviously I will spend a little more time with the defense. But, as a staff, we are all on the same page, so I feel extremely comfortable going over and spending as much time as I need to on offense. I have a good feel for exactly what is going on with the defense while I am spending time with the offense." On the offensive line, a possible strength of the team heading into spring: "We feel real good about where we are at. We think the offensive line can be a strength of this football team. There is a lot of good football players there. We feel real good about the talent on the offensive line. Not only will we have a good starting group, but we've got good depth. We are excited about that group." 8

9 Ted Gilmore, Assistant Head Coach/Wide Receivers, Recruiting Coordinator Nebraska: , Wide Receivers Big 12: 1999, Kansas, Wide Receivers; , Colorado, Wide Receivers Tim Beck, Running Backs Big 12: , Kansas State, graduate assistant; , Kansas, Wide Receivers, Passing Game Coordinator Ron Brown, Tight Ends Nebraska: , Wide Receivers and Tight ends Defense Carl Pelini, Defensive Coordinator/Defensive Line Nebraska: 2003, Graduate Assistant Coach Big 12: , Kansas State, Graduate Assistant Coach Mike Ekeler, Linebackers Big 12: , Oklahoma, Gradaute Assistant Coach John Papuchis, Defensive Ends Big 12: , Kansas, Graduate Assistant Coach Marvin Sanders, Secondary Nebraska: 2003, Secondary Coach Administration Jeff Jamrog, Assistant A.D./Football Operations Nebraska: , Defensive Line Coach, Special Teams Coordinator NU Has Balanced Recruiting Class; Strong Walk-on Crop The first item of business for Pelini and his veteran coaching staff was finalizing the Huskers' 2008 recruiting class. The NU staff inked 28 prospects to national letters of intent on Feb. 6. In addition, Pelini and his staff have made a strong commitment to making Nebraska's storied walk-on program a priority. The results were evident this winter as more than 20 players declared their intentiions to join the program in the fall (see pages for full bios on all incoming recruits). Nebraska's scholarship class reflected a balanced recruiting approach. Of the Huskers' 28 signees, 14 were slated to start on the offensive side of the ball, including a quarterback, two running backs, three receivers, two tight ends, a fullback and four offensive linemen. Defensively, Nebraska signed 14 players including three defensive linemen, four linebackers and seven defensive backs. Nebraska's 2008 signing class included:» Six players from the state of Nebraska, the Huskers' largest group of in-state signees since 2003» Nine players from Texas, the most players Nebraska has ever signed from the Lone Star State» A player from Florida, marking the seventh straight year NU has signed at least one player from the Sunshine State» A signee from Georgia, the Huskers' first from that state since 2001 Two Signees, Four Others Join Huskers in January The Nebraska football program welcomed six new players to the program for the second semester. Two scholarship signees joined the team in January including true freshman quarterback Kody Spano and junior college tight end prospect Tyson Hetzer. Spano comes to Nebraska from Stephenville (Texas) High School. The 6-2, 205- pound Spano will bring a versatile threat to the Husker offense. Over the past two seasons he has thrown for a combined 5,152 yards, while rushing for another 898 yards. Hetzer is a 6-6, 250-pound tight end who hopes to immediately join the battle for playing time at the position. Hetzer joins the Nebraska program after spending the 2007 season at Citrus College in California. Four native Nebraskans also joined the program in January, with three of those players transferring to the Huskers. Wide receiver Matt Donahue spent the 2007 season at Ohio University, where he saw limited action as a true freshman. A Fremont native, Donahue brings outstanding speed to the NU receiving corps. Lincoln native Jim Ebke transferred from South Dakota State where he spent his freshman campaign. Ebke was a star quarterback at Lincoln East and will try to make an impact as a signal caller for the Huskers. Fullback Tyler Legate, a native of Neligh, Neb., transferred from South Dakota. Tyler is the cousin of former Nebraska fullback, Billy Legate. Offensive lineman Cory Iske, a Millard West graduate, originally planned to walk on with the Huskers last fall, but dealyed his enrollment until January NEBR ASK A SPRING FOOTBALL Pelini Brings Track Record of Defensive Success to NU While the 2008 season will mark Bo Pelini's first season as a head coach, he has an impressive track record as a defensive coordinator on the collegiate level. Pelini has been a part of five straight defenses that have ranked among the nation's best units, including his 2003 defense at Nebraska. Pelini first became a fan favorite in Nebraska, when he led the 2003 Blackshirts to impressive numbers. Nebraska nabbed a school-record 47 takeaways in 2003, and finished the season second in scoring defense, first in pass efficiency defense and 11th in total defense. The success under Pelini has continued over the past four years, including the 2007 LSU defense that finished third nationally in total defense to help the Tigers to the BCS National Championship. Pelini s College Defenses National Rankings Total Rush Pass Eff. Pass Yds. Scoring Nebraska Oklahoma LSU Huskers Look to Build on Strong Offensive Finish The Husker offense clicked on all cylinders late in the 2007 season, and Nebraska will look to carry that momentum into Offensive coordinator Shawn Watson returns to guide the Nebraska offense and he will welcome back a core of players who played a key role in NU's 2007 offensive success. Nebraska re-wrote the passing record book in 2007, and thrived in the final three games under the direction of quarterback Joe Ganz, who will enter spring as the frontrunner for the starting job. Ganz produced three of five 400-yard passing days in school history last November, including the top two passing games in school history. Overall, Nebraska averaged a gaudy yards, yards passing and 53.3 points per game over the season's final three contests. Those numbers helped the Huskers finish the season ranked seventh nationally in passing offense (323.8 ypg) and ninth in total offense (468.3 ypg). The passing offense mark was a school-record average, while Nebraska's total offensive average was its best in a decade. Despite the impressive finish to the season, both Pelini and Watson have mentioned the desire for a more balanced offensive attack in Sampling of Offensive Records Set in 2007 Passing Yards in a Game Joe Ganz, 510 vs. Kansas State Passing Touchdowns Joe Ganz, 7 vs. Kansas State Team Passing Yards per Game yards per game Single-Season Receptions Marlon Lucky, 75 Experienced Line to Set Tone for Husker Offense Nebraska returns a quarterback, I-back and wide receiver who each have significant places in the Husker record book. However, it is a veteran offensive line that puts the biggest smiles on the faces of NU coaches heading into spring practice. The Huskers return four offensive linemen who made at least six starts last season, and each of those players has shown great versatility throughout their Nebraska career. Senior Matt Slauson has made 22 starts over the past three seasons, beginning with three starts as a true freshman offensive tackle. Last season, the 6-5, 325-pound Slauson made six starts at offensive guard, before starting the final two games at tackle. Fellow senior Lydon Murtha had his 2007 season cut short because of a foot injury. Prior to his injury, the 6-7, 315-pound Murtha started the first eight games of the season at right tackle and provided excellent protection in the passing game. Mike Huff is the third senior who has extensive starting experience, having been in the lineup 19 times at guard over the past two seasons. Junior Jacob Hickman has started 10 games over the past two seasons, including nine starts at guard last fall. He has also been mentioned as a possible replacement for two-year starter Brett Byford at center. A year ago, Slauson, Murtha and Hickman all received honorable-mention All-Big 12 honors. In addition to the four veteran returnees, Nebraska also returns four other lettermen on the offensive line, including sophomores Jaivorio Burkes, D.J. Jones, Mike Smith and Keith Williams. Burkes started three games at offensive tackle last season. The line allowed an average of 1.5 sacks per game last season (31st nationally), provided the protection for four 400-yard passing days, and paved the way for Marlon Lucky to surpass 1,000 rushing yards.

10 2008 NEBRASKA SPRING FOOTBALL Dual-Threat Lucky Looking for Another Big Season I-back Marlon Lucky will enter his senior season in 2008, fresh off one of the best seasons by a Nebraska running back in a decade. Lucky finished his junior season with 1,019 rushing yards, just the second 1,000-yard rushing season by a Husker I-back since Lucky will enter 2008 as the leading returning rusher in the Big 12 Conference, and should be a strong candidate for Big 12 and national honors. The North Hollywood, Calif., native made an equal impact as a receiver. Lucky caught a Nebraska record 75 passes for 705 yards. Lucky's 75 receptions shattered the previous NU record by 20 catches and he caught the most passes of any running back in the country. Lucky finished 31st nationally in all-purpose yards, averaging yards per game. His 1,743 all-purpose yards were seventh in NU history and the most by a Husker since Ahman Green in Lucky enters his senior season with Nebraska Career Rushing Player, Years Yards 1. Mike Rozier, , Ahman Green, , Derek Brown, , Jarvis Redwine, , Joe Orduna, , Tommie Frazier, , Marlon Lucky, 2005-present 1,876 Nebraska Season Receptions Player, Year Receptions 1. Maron Lucky, Maurice Purify, Johnny Rodgers, Johnny Rodgers, Nate Swift, Nebraska Career Receptions Player, Years Receptions 1. Johnny Rodgers, Terrence Nunn, Marlon Lucky, 2005-present Nate Swift, 2005-present Matt Davison, ,876 career rushing yards to rank 27th on the Nebraska career chart. He is within 825 yards of cracking the top 10 on the NU career rushing list and has a reasonable chance of becoming just the sixth 3,000-yard career rusher in NU history. Lucky has 109 career receptions heading into 2008, and both he and senior receiver Nate Swift are a threat to Johnny Rodgers' school record of 143 receptions. Swift Making Rapid Ascension on NU Receiving Chart Senior wide receiver Nate Swift has been a key component in the Nebraska passing game since his redshirt freshman season in Swift caught 36 passes for 520 yards and three touchdowns as a junior, helping the Huskers to a No. 7 national ranking in passing offense. This spring, Swift and fellow senior wideout Todd Peterson will be counted on to lead a receiving corps that graduated four veteran seniors. Swift should be up to the task, as he is arguably the Huskers' most seasoned performer heading into 2008, having played in 38 games with 16 starts. Swift burst onto the scene in 2005, when he caught a Nebraska freshman record 45 passes, including seven touchdown grabs. He added 22 catches as a sophomore. Swift enters the season with 103 career receptions to rank fourth on the Nebraska career receptions list. By season's end, both he and teammate Marlon Lucky could pass current NU record holder Johnny Rodgers (143 catches) and move to the top of the Husker receptions list. Swift also has 12 career touchdown receptions, leaving him five touchdowns shy of second place on the NU career TD catches list. NCAA Record 289 Consecutive Sellouts Nebraska boasts an incredible NCAA-record 289 consecutive sellouts at Memorial Stadium. The sellout streak dates back to Hall of Fame Coach Bob Devaney's first year in 1962 (vs. Missouri on Nov. 3). Notre Dame is second in all-time consecutive sellouts with 197, 92 fewer than Nebraska. The Huskers are during the 289 sellouts. The mark includes a record against ranked teams. Nebraska is 5-0 in the five milestone sellouts during that period (50th, 100th, 150th, 200th and 250th sellouts), including a 24-7 win over No. 2 Colorado on Oct. 29, 1994 (No. 200) and a victory over Utah State on Sept. 7, 2002 (No. 250). The fan support at Memorial Stadium has led to a dominant home advantage for the Huskers. Nebraska has won at least six home games in 18 of the past 21 seasons and is at home since Ten of the losses in the span have come against teams that finished in the top eight of the final AP poll. With eight home games on the 2008 schedule, Nebraska's sellout streak is expected to reach 297 by season's end, and would reach 300 during the 2008 season Nebraska Season Recap Nebraska opened the 2007 season with a pair of victories over teams that played in bowl games the previous year a home blowout over Nevada and a hard-fought road victory over Wake Forest. The Huskers' fell short in a showdown at Memorial Stadium against top-ranked USC, however the Huskers rebounded to post home wins over Ball State and Iowa State to improve to 4-1. The Huskers struggled the remainder of the season, suffering through a five-game losing streak that dropped NU to 4-6 overall. The streak ended with consecutive road losses against nationally ranked Texas and Kansas. NU ended the skid with a rout of Kansas State in Lincoln, but fell short of an opportunity for a bowl berth with a loss at Colorado in the season finale. Nebraska finished with a 5-7 overall mark and a 2-6 record in the Big 12 Conference. The 2007 campaign marked just the second time since 1969 that the Huskers have not been to a bowl game. Three of Nebraska's losses during the 2007 season came against teams that finished in the top 10 in the national polls, while 10 of the Huskers' 12 opponents went on to play in the postseason. Lucky, Nicks Earn Second-Team All-Big 12 Honors Junior I-back Marlon Lucky and senior offensive tackle Carl Nicks were chosen as 2007 second-team All-Big 12 performers according to the Big 12 Coaches. Lucky had the best all-purpose season by a Husker in 10 seasons, showing his ability to impact games both as a runner and a receiver. Lucky rushed for 1,019 yards and nine touchdowns, including five games with 100 or more rushing yards. In the passing game, Lucky caught a Nebraska record 75 passes for 705 yards and another three touchdowns. His 75 receptions were the most by any running back in the country and bettered the previous Nebraska season record by 20 receptions. His 1,743 all-purpose yards were the most by a Nebraska player since Ahman Green totaled 1,982 yards in Nicks played a key role in Nebraska's offensive success in The 6-5, 330- pound Nicks started 11 of 12 games at offensive tackle and anchored the Huskers' offensive line. Nicks helped Nebraska rank seventh nationally in passing offense and No. 9 in total offense. Despite shattering the school record for pass attempts, the Nebraska offensive line allowed just 18 sacks on the season. In addition to Lucky and Nicks, junior offensive tackle Matt Slauson was chosen as a second-team All-Big 12 performer by Rivals.com. 10 I-back Marlon Lucky will enter his senior season in 2008 with the goal of posting another 1,000-yard rushing season. Lucky is the Big 12's top returning rusher, and also caught a school-record 75 passes in 2007.

11 Looking Ahead to 2008 The 2008 Schedule Nebraska faced an extremely difficult schedule in 2007, taking on 10 bowl teams and three teams that finished the season ranked in the nation's top 10. The 2008 season figures to be no different with a daunting schedule in front of Bo Pelini's first Nebraska team. Among Nebraska's 12 regular-season contests, six will come against teams who participated in a bowl game following the 2007 campaign. Among the group are three teams that played in the Bowl Championship Series, including Virginia Tech (Orange), Oklahoma (Fiesta) and Kansas (Orange). Missouri (Cotton), Texas Tech (Gator) and Colorado (Independence) also played in a bowl game following last season. In addition, four of Nebraska's 2008 opponents finished in the top 10 in the national polls last fall, including Missouri (4-AP, 5 Coaches), Kansas (7), Oklahoma (8) and Virginia Tech (9). Nebraska is one of just four teams in the country scheduled to play three 2007 BCS teams this fall, and one of two teams who will face four foes who finished ranked in the top 10. Nebraska will have the benefit of eight home games in 2008, including each of the Huskers' first five games. The 2008 season marks just the sixth time in school history and the first time since 2002 that Nebraska has played eight home games. Nebraska also opened the 2005 campaign with five straight home games, but this year's schedule is just the fifth time in NU history the Huskers have played five home games to open a season. Games Against 2007 Top 10 Teams 4 Nebraska, Colorado 3 Auburn, Baylor, Kansas, Kansas State, Oklahoma State, Texas, Texas Tech Games Against 2007 BCS Teams 3 Nebraska, Auburn, Cincinnati, Florida A Look at the 2008 Huskers Nebraska returns 14 starters from last year's team, including six starters on both offense and defense, along with its starting kicker and punter. Four offensive linemen with at least eight starts in 2007 will anchor the 2008 Nebraska offense. Seniors Mike Huff, Matt Slauson and Lydon Murtha, along with junior Jacob Hickman have seen extensive playing time up front for the Huskers. I-back Marlon Lucky and wide receiver Nate Swift are two of the most experienced Huskers and return for their senior seasons with impressive career offensive numbers. Several other Huskers have starting experience on offense, including senior quarterback Joe Ganz who guided the offense to huge numbers in the final three games. On the defensive side of the ball, Nebraska's starting front four returns intact, led by senior ends Zach Potter and Barry Turner. On the inside of the defensive line Ty Steinkuhler and Ndamukong Suh return after starting throughout the 2007 season. The Huskers must replace all three starting linebackers, but return a pair of starters in the secondary. Cornerback Armando Murillo was one of only two defenders to start all 12 games last season, while safety Larry Asante was in the starting lineup 10 times during his sophomore season. Place-kickers Alex Henery and Adi Kunalic combined to give Nebraska a perfect kicking season, while punter Dan Titchener continued to be one of the league's most consistent performers during his junior season Huskers by Position 2007 starters in bold; *denotes letters earned; lists include returning lettermen only The Offense Nebraska's biggest losses came at receiver and tight end where the Huskers must replace four veteran wideouts and three tight ends who saw significant playing time. Receivers Maurice Purify and Terrence Nunn each placed their names prominently in the Nebraska record book. Quarterback Sam Keller was productive in his nine games as the Huskers' starting quarterback, while Nebraska must also replace twoyear starting center Brett Byford and starting left tackle Carl Nicks. The following is a position-by-position look at the offense heading into spring. Offensive Line... Returning: Jaivorio Burkes*, So. OT Started three of final four games as true freshman Jacob Hickman**, Jr., OG Versatility to play both guard or center Mike Huff**, Sr., OG Started 18 games at guard over the past two seasons D.J. Jones*, So., OL Has seen time at both guard and tackle 2008 NEBR ASK A SPRING FOOTBALL Senior offensive lineman Matt Slauson has started 22 games over the past three seasons, including eight starts a year ago. Lydon Murtha***, Sr., OT Ability to play either tackle spot; 14 career starts Matt Slauson***, Sr., OL Played both guard and tackle in 2007; 22 carer starts Mike Smith*, So., OT Converted defensive end who saw time at tackle in 2007 Keith Williams*, So., OL Showed promise in reserve duty at guard in 2007 Lost: Brett Byford**, C Started 25 straight games at center over past two seasons Victory Haines*, OT Appeared in seven games as a reserve during past two years Carl Nicks**, OT Held down left tackle spot in 2007; NFL Draft prospect Jordan Picou*, OG Reserve who played in five games last two seasons Noting the Offensive Line: Nebraska returns a total of 67 career starts at the offensive line positions, including 32 starts from the 2007 season. The biggest task for the Huskers in 2007 will be replacing Byford, who anchored the line each of the past two seasons. Several players could get a look at center during spring practice. Nebraska has ample depth and experience at the guard and tackle spots. Huff, Hickman and Slauson have started games in their career at guard, while Slauson, Murtha and Burkes all boast starting experience at tackle. In addition, Jones, Williams and Smith have game experience and will look to expand their roles in Sophomores Cruz Barrett and Dennis Bergland also have extensive practice time under their belts and hope to step up during spring ball. Receivers... Returning: Wes Cammack**, Jr. Extensive special teams action past two seasons Will Henry*, So. Tallest member of NU receiver corps at 6-5 Menelik Holt**, Jr. Key reserve past two years; four catches in final three games Niles Paul*, So. Nebraska native gained valuable experience in rookie season Todd Peterson***, Sr. Grand Island native has 45 career catches and nine TDs Nate Swift***, Sr. 16 career starts; 103 career receptions and 12 touchdowns Lost: Dan Erickson*** Blocking specialist finished career with 12 receptions Frantz Hardy*** Big-play threat averaged 18.0 yards on 54 career catches Terrence Nunn**** Finished No. 2 on NU receptions and yardage lists Maurice Purify** His 16 career touchdowns are No. 2 at Nebraska Noting the Wide Receivers: Nebraska must replace four seniors who combined for 293 career receptions and 34 touchdowns. However, seniors Swift and Peterson will anchor a unit that features a great deal of young talent. Juniors Menelik Holt and Chris Brooks have seen limited action, but are both tall targets for Nebraska quarterbacks. Cammack could fill the role vacated by Erickson, while sophomores Paul and Henry will have a chance to move into a prominent role during spring ball. Curenski Gilleylen redshirted last season, but could push for playing time during spring. 11

12 2008 NEBRASKA SPRING FOOTBALL Tight Ends... Returning: Mike McNeill*, So. Talented receiving threat has added 15 pounds of muscle Hunter Teafatiller***, Sr. California native has seen extensive play past two years Dreu Young*, So. Saw valuable action last year and has added strength in winter Lost: Sean Hill* Breakout player during senior year; 18 catches and 3 TD in 2007 Josh Mueller**** Strong blocker and largest receiving target for NU quarterbacks J.B. Phillips**** Played in 49 games with 34 career starts; 30 career catches Noting the Tight Ends: Teafatiller is the most experienced player in the group, having hauled in four touchdown passes during his junior year. McNeill and Young both saw action as redshirt freshmen last fall and have added muscle to allow them to be every-down players. Redshirt freshman Ryan Hill and junior college product Tyson Hetzer both look to make their push for playing time this spring. Sophomore Ben Tasa has provided depth the past two seasons. Running Backs... Returning: Quentin Castille*, So., IB Played in all 12 games as true frosh and had four TDs Cody Glenn***, Sr., IB Injury-plagued 2007 season; 12 career rushing touchdowns Roy Helu Jr.*, So., IB Third-leading rusher in 2007 with 209 yards as true frosh Thomas Lawson**, Sr., FB Part-time starter in '07; all three receptions were for TD Marlon Lucky***, Sr., IB Big 12's leading returning rusher with 1,019 yards Kenny Wilson*, Sr., IB Missed entire 2007 season with leg injuries Lost: Andy Sand*, FB Shared time as starter at fullback in 2007 Matt Senske*, FB Reserve fullback during Husker career Noting the Running Backs: Nebraska returns all of its I-backs from the 2007 season, along with part-time starter Lawson at fullback. Lucky heads up an impressive group of I-backs, as he is the Big 12's leading returning rusher and led all running backs in the nation in receptions last season. Castille and Helu made an impact as true freshmen, rushing for 343 and 209 yards, respectively. The powerful Castille scored four touchdowns, while Helu showed outstanding ability during increased playing time later in the season. Glenn will look to make the most of his senior season after battling injuries throughout The Texas native has 12 career rushing touchdowns and has been a short-yardage specialist for the Huskers. Senior Kenny Wilson looks to get back in the mix this spring after sitting out the entire 2007 season because of injury. Wilson was a key part of NU's four-man I-back rotation in Lawson split time at fullback with Sand last season and provided NU with a strong blocking presence. A handful of players will look to add depth behind Lawson, led by sophomore Justin Makovicka. Quarterbacks... Returning: Joe Ganz**, Sr. Threw for 400-plus yards in each of three starts at end of year Lost: Sam Keller* Threw for 2,422 yards in first nine games before being injured Noting the Quarterbacks: Keller emerged from a spring and fall camp battle with Ganz as the starter and had a solid 2007 season before being injured late in the game at Texas. Ganz was superb in relief during the season's final month, throwing for 15 touchdowns in the final three games, and producing the top two passing days in school history in the last two games of the year. Ganz brings more mobility to the position than NU's past two starters. Senior Beau Davis has been a valuable reserve throughout his career. Redshirt freshman Patrick Witt and sophomore Zac Lee were impressive during practice time last fall and will look to contend for playing time. True freshman Kody Spano joined the program at semester and brings an excellent run-pass threat to the spot. Senior defensive end Zach Potter returns to the Huskers after a strong 2007 campaign. Potter had 45 tackles, including 11 tackles for loss as a junior. The Defense Nebraska returns six starters on the defensive side of the ball, including all four starters on the line. A year ago, the line was the youthful group, while this year the defensive front will be looked to for leadership. Nebraska lost four senior linebackers who saw extensive playing time in their career, including three-year starters Bo Ruud and Corey McKeon. A pair of starters return in the secondary, however the Huskers lost six defensive backs who were part of the regular rotation in Defensive Line... Returning: Pierre Allen*, So., DE Made 16 tackles and three tackles for loss in 11 games Shukree Barfield*, Sr., DT Finished first year at Nebraska with 15 total tackles Kevin Dixon*, Sr., DT Made four starts and had 19 tackles, 3 TFL and an INT Ben Martin*, So., DT Lincoln native saw action in six games as a reserve in '07 Zach Potter***, Sr., DE Started 11 games in 2007 and made 45 tackles, 11 TFL Clayton Sievers***, Sr., DE Versatile player has played TE, LB and DE in career Ty Steinkuhler***, Sr., DT Second-generation Husker started eight games in '07 Ndamukong Suh**, Jr., DT Returning starter will miss spring ball with injury Barry Turner***, Sr., DE Started 11 games last season; 10.5 career sacks Lost: Brandon Johnson**, DT Played in seven games in 2007 and made three tackles Andy Poulosky**, DE Made seven tackles and 2 TFL in 10 games in 2007 Thomas Rice*, DE Made a tackle in only career appearance against K-State Noting the Defensive Line: Nebraska returns the entire starting front four from last season. On the interior, Suh will miss spring ball after undergoing knee surgery in early March, but is expected to return in time for fall camp. He had 34 tackles and six tackles for loss last season. Steinkuhler has played both tackle and end during his career, but settled in on the interior last season and started eight games despite battling injuries. Dixon and Barfield saw extensive action as the top backups on the inside last season, with Dixon starting four games and Barfield earning one start in Martin saw limited time as a redshirt freshman and could push for more playing time, along with sophomore Seth Jensen and redshirt freshman Terrence Moore. Turner and Potter anchored the end positions last season and appear poised for strong senior seasons. Turner enters the season with 17 career tackles for loss and 10.5 sacks, while Potter had 11 TFL last season. Sievers and Allen saw extensive playing time in backup roles last season, while junior David Harvey and redshirt freshmen Will Yancy and Jared Crick will look to make an impact during spring ball. 12

13 Linebackers... Returning: Phillip Dillard**, Jr. Made 37 tackles while starting two games at MIKE in 2007 Thomas Grove*, So. Walk-on played a role on kickoff coverage as a true frosh Blake Lawrence*, So. Played in five games as a backup SAM linebacker last fall Latravis Washington*, So. Saw action in six games, primarily on kickoff coverage Tyler Wortman*, Sr. Walk-on stepped up last season with nine tackles, 3 TFL Lost: Lance Brandenburgh**** Started six career games and finished with 118 tackles Corey McKeon*** Three-year starter ranks 13th on NU career tackle list (240) Steve Octavien** Started 10 games and made 128 career tackles, 21 TFL Bo Ruud**** Made 33 career starts and finished with 216 tackles, 5 INT Noting the Linebackers: This is probably the most open position heading into spring practice. The Husker coaching staff faces the task of replacing four veteran linebackers who combined for 702 career tackles and 78 starts in their careers. Ruud and McKeon started each of the past four years, Brandenburgh was a four-year letterwinner and Octavien was a key play-maker the last two years. Dillard enters his junior season as the most experienced performer in the linebacking corps. He started a pair of games at the MIKE spot last season and performed well, finishing the year with 37 tackles. New players will be asked to step up on the outside. Grove, Lawrence and Washington all saw action as true freshman last season, but the majority of that work came on special teams. Lawrence and Washington were highly regarded prospects out of high school, while Grove impressed Husker coaches as a walk-on performer. Wortman filled in nicely late in the season when injuries struck, and looks to make a major contribution during his senior campaign. Several other players could make a move during spring ball, including redshirt freshmen Austin Stafford, Jeff Sayre and Jay Martin, sophomore Kyle Moore and juniors Nick Covey and Colton Koehler. Secondary... Returning: Prince Amukamara*, So., DB Played in eight games as freshman with four tackles Larry Asante*, Jr., S Finished second with 78 tackles with 10 starts in 2007 Anthony Blue*, So., CB Will miss spring practice after suffering knee injury Major Culbert**, Jr., S Has seen action as DB, LB and RB in two years in program Eric Hagg*, So., DB Played in seven games in 2007; could play corner or safety Armando Murillo*, Sr., CB Only returning defender to start all 12 games in 2007 Matt O'Hanlon**, Sr., S Has played key special teams role the past two years Rickey Thenarse**, Jr., S Hard-hitter who has made biggest impact on special teams Anthony West*, So., CB Impressive in limited role as a redshirt freshman Lost: Zack Bowman**, CB Had 20 career pass breakups in nine career starts Ben Eisenhart***, S Former walk-on played in 41 games in his Husker career Tierre Green****, S Started 36 career games and finished with 149 tackles Cortney Grixby****, CB Three-year starter had 32 PBU and 147 career tackles Andre Jones**, CB Started 13 games and made 88 career tackles with 9 PBU Tyler Kester*, CB Played in five career games as a reserve corner Bryan Wilson**, S Versatile player saw action at both corner and safety in career Noting the Secondary: The Huskers have a pair of returning starters, and a large group of young talent in the seconday. However, NU must also replace six seniors who played a key role in 2007, including three-year starters in Grixby and Green. Bowman, Eisenhart, Jones and Wilson also logged significant playing time during their careers and must be replaced. Murillo started all 12 games at one corner in his first season in Lincoln and will be expected to be a leader in the defensive backfield in Asante made an impact as a safety in his first year with the Huskers, finishing the year as Nebraska's second-leading tackler. Thenarse has seen extensive action in the secondary the past two seasons, while also being named Nebraska's Special Teams MVP twice. Culbert will start the spring at safety, but could also be tried at linebacker. Blue started two games at the end of the season, but will miss spring ball because of a knee injury suffered during winter conditioning. O'Hanlon has been a special teams standout and will try to make an impact at safety during his senior year. Amukamara, Hagg and West all made an impact as freshmen last season and will be called on to take the next step this spring NEBR ASK A SPRING FOOTBALL The Special Teams Kickers... Returning: Alex Henery*, So., PK Perfect on 45 PATs and eight field goals in 2007 Adi Kunalic*, So., PK/KO Led nation in touchback percentage in 2007 Jake Wesch***, Sr., PK Has provided backup at PK and on KO for past three years Dan Titchener**, Sr., P Downed 42 punts inside 20 in past two years Lost: None Specialists... Returning: Jake Wesch***, Sr., H Contributed to NU's flawless place-kicking effort in 2007 T.J. O'Leary**, Sr., LS Excellent in two seasons as starting long snapper Lost: None Returners... Returning: Marlon Lucky***, Sr., KOR Has returned 22 kickoffs in career; only one in 2007 Niles Paul*, So., KOR Saw duty on KOR as true frosh, and had one return Nate Swift***, Sr., PR Has returned five punts in past two seasons Lost: Cortney Grixby****, KOR/PR Set Big 12 record for KOR yardage in 2007; returned 53 punts in past three years Andre Jones**, KOR/PR Returned 17 kickoffs and six punts in 2007 Noting the Special Teams: Nebraska's kicking game was a pleasant surprise in 2007, as the Huskers connected on all 55 of their place-kicking attempts. Henery was the first player in school history to connect on all of his PATs and also be perfect in five or more field-goal attempts. Kunalic made his only PAT and only field goal attempt, but made his biggest impact on kickoffs, booting 28 of his 66 kickoffs for touchbacks. Titchener has been a steady performer at punter the past two seasons, helping Nebraska rank among the Big 12 leaders in net punting each season. Wesch provides solid backup in the kicking game, and has also handled the holding chores the past two years. O'Leary returns for his senior year as the Huskers' long snapper and has been nearly perfect in his performance. Nebraska will look to identify new prospects in the return game during spring ball after the loss of Grixby and Jones. Lucky has the most extensive experience on kickoff returns, while Paul and Swift also have seen limited action in the return game. A number of candidates will audition for return jobs during spring ball. Cornerback Armando Murillo was one of only two Husker defenders to start all 12 games last season. Murillo finished with 71 tackles and seven breakups. 13

14 NEBRASKA SPRING FOOTBALL Returning Starters Offense #67 Jacob Hickman Offensive Line Jr. Two Letters Bakersfield, Calif. (Centennial) 2007 Honorable-Mention All-Big 12 (Coaches) Junior offensive lineman Jacob Hickman has become a dependable performer for Nebraska over the past two seasons. This spring the 6-4, 290-pound Hickman will look to solidify a spot on a talented offensive line that returns four players that made at least six starts last season. Hickman has seen action at guard the past two seasons, but could also be a candidate to take over at center in After missing spring ball because of a knee injury, Hickman played in all 12 games in 2007, including starting the final nine games at offensive guard. He was a key cog in a line that helped Nebraska set single-game and season passing records, averaging better than 323 passing yards per game to finish seventh nationally. The line also paved the way for I-back Marlon Lucky to record a 1,000-yard rushing season, along with more than 1,700 all-purpose yards. Hickman s steady play was recognized as he was chosen as an honorable-mention All-Big 12 performer by the league s coaches. Hickman earned valuable playing time as a true freshman in 2006, seeing action in five games. Against Missouri, Hickman became just the second true freshman offensive lineman to start a game for Nebraska since 1972, joining teammate Matt Slauson who started three games as a true frosh in Hickman also became just the seventh Husker true freshman lineman to letter since He also saw extensive action at Oklahoma State, helping NU gain 452 yards. Hickman also served on Nebraska s PAT and field goal units. Hickman was originally in the 2005 recruiting class, but delayed his enrollment at Nebraska until January of 2006 and joined the Huskers for spring practice. #61 Mike Huff Offensive Line Sr. Three Letters Ralston, Neb. Senior Mike Huff is one of several veteran members of the Husker offensive line who return for the 2008 campaign. The powerful Huff is one of four players to make at least six starts last season who return to provide strength up front for the Nebraska offense. The Ralston, Neb., native has started 19 games at guard the past two seasons and is a leading contender to hold down a starting guard spot again in The 6-4, 300-pound Huff suffered an Achilles injury during winter conditioning in 2007, but returned in time to start six games at right guard, including four of the last six contests. Huff s play helped Nebraska finish the year ranked No. 7 nationally in passing offense and ninth in total offense. The offensive line also provided the push for I-back Marlon Lucky to surpass 1,000 yards rushing and post the best all-purpose season by a Husker in 10 years. Huff had a breakthrough effort during spring practice in 2006, then was in the starting lineup for every game but Missouri. He was one of four freshmen or sophomores to earn starts, and part of a line that keyed a resurgent Nebraska offense in The Huskers were one of just three teams nationally to rank in the top 25 in rushing, passing, scoring and total offense. The offensive line played a pivotal role in senior quarterback Zac Taylor s record-setting season that culminated with him being named Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year. The line also paved the way for a running game that topped 180 yards eight times during the season. A reserve guard in 2005, Huff saw action against Oklahoma, when the Huskers used a power formation with extra offensive linemen. Huff redshirted in his first season in the program in #5 Marlon Lucky I-Back Sr. Three Letters North Hollywood, Calif.» 2007 Second-Team All-Big 12 (Big 12 Coaches, Austin American-Statesman)» 2007 Honorable-Mention All-Big 12 (AP)» 2006 Second-Team All-Big 12 (AP, Houston Chronicle, S-A Express News)» 2006 Honorable-Mention All-Big 12 (Coaches)» Walter Camp National Offensive Player of the Week (vs. Nevada, 2007)» Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week (vs. Troy, 2006, vs. Nevada, 2007)» 2007 Big 12 Commissioner s Spring Academic Honor Roll» Nebraska Record for Most Receptions in a Season (75 in 2007) Senior I-back Marlon Lucky enters spring practice as one of the top returning offensive players in the Big 12 Conference. Lucky is the league s top returning rusher after averaging 84.9 yards per game last season. The 6-0, 215-pounder will enter spring ball looking to continue to develop his skills as an all-around back. In addition to posting a 1,000-yard rushing season in 2007, Lucky also had a record-setting season as a receiver. Lucky caught a Nebraska single-season record 75 passes for 705 yards and three touchdowns. Lucky s 75 catches bettered the previous Nebraska season record by 20 and he led the nation in catches by a running back. Overall, Lucky amassed 1,743 all-purpose yards in 2007, seventh in school history and the most by a Husker player in 10 seasons. Lucky s overall success as a junior netted him second-team All-Big 12 honors from the Big 12 Coaches. Lucky finished 31st nationally in all-purpose running and is among the top 15 returning all-purpose runners for the 2008 season. He is also one of the top 25 returning rushers in the nation and the top 20 returning players in receptions per game. Lucky began his junior year with a career highs of 30 carries and 233 yards, including three touchdowns in a victory over Nevada. He also caught a touchdown pass in the game and was named the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week and the Walter Camp National Offensive Player of the Week. He added 90 rushing yards and a touchdown against Wake Forest, helping the Huskers to a road victory. Lucky had back-to-back 100-yard games in home victories over Ball State and Iowa State, and also caught an NU running back record 11 passes against the Cardinals. Lucky also threw a 20-yard touchdown pass to Sean Hill in NU s win over Iowa State. His running back receptions record stood for just four games, as Lucky snared 13 catches for 125 yards against Texas A&M. Lucky played his best football late in the season, topping 100 all-purpose yards in each of the final five games. He ran 24 times for 111 yards and caught six passes on the road at Texas. Against No. 8 Kansas, Lucky caught six passes for 83 yards, including a career-long 62-yard touchdown catch in the second quarter. He again caught six passes against Kansas State, including a touchdown, and also posted his fifth 100-yard rushing effort with 103 yards and a pair of rushing touchdowns in the rout of the Wildcats. Lucky closed the year with 184 all-purpose yards at Colorado, rushing for 69 yards and a touchdown, while catching eight passes for 115 yards. On the year, Lucky rushed for at least 65 yards nine times, and had eight games with six or more receptions, including each of the season s final five games. Lucky cracked the 100-yard all-purpose mark in 10 of Nebraska s 12 games in Lucky showed his versatility during his sophomore season, making an impact as a runner, receiver and in the return game. He was chosen as a a second-team All-Big 12 selection as an all-purpose player by the Associated Press, and was an honorable-mention all-conference choice by the Big 12 coaches. His performance helped Nebraska rank in the top 25 nationally in all four major statistical categories, including 14th in total offense. The California native was second on the team in rushing with 728 yards and six touchdowns, caught 32 passes for 383 yards and averaged better than 19 yards on eight kickoff returns. He finished second on the team with 1,264 all-purpose yards, an average of better than 90 per game, just outside of the top 10 in the Big 12. He surpassed 100 all-purpose yards six times on the year. Lucky twice topped 100 yards rushing and had five games with 70 or more yards. His first 100-yard game was a 103-yard effort against Nicholls State. He had his top performance in the 56-0 win over Troy, rushing 10 times for 156 yards and three scores to earn Big 12 Offensive Player-of-the-Week honors. Lucky s 15.6 yards per-carry average was the best for a Husker with at least 10 carries in a game since Lucky connected on a 25-yard touchdown pass to Nate Swift against Texas, then finished the year in strong fashion. Lucky had 151 all-purpose yards in the win over Missouri, and added 136 all-purpose yards at Texas A&M, including four receptions

15 for 56 yards. He had a season-long 42-yard catch and a team-high 52 rushing yards against the Aggies. He capped his sophomore year with a strong all-around performance against Auburn in the Cotton Bowl. Lucky carried a season-high 25 times for 88 yards and also caught six passes for 67 yards to total 195 all-purpose yards. Lucky played in all 12 games in 2005, and was one of 13 true freshmen to see action. He was a backup behind senior Cory Ross and ran for 129 yards, while also playing a key role on Nebraska s kickoff return unit. He averaged 20.9 yards on 15 returns, including a season-long 57-yard return at Kansas. He also had a 100-yard kickoff return for a touchdown against the Jayhawks nullified by penalty. Lucky ran for a season-high 44 yards against Maine and had 33 yards in a 30-3 win at Colorado. Lucky s Career Statistics Rushing Year G/S Att. Gain Loss Net Y/A Y/G Long TDs / , twice / , vs. Troy / , , , vs. ISU 9 Totals 38/ , , , vs. Troy 15 Receiving: 109-1,091-3 total; in 2005; in 2006; in 2007 Kickoff Returns: total; in 2005; in 2006; in 2007; long 57-KU, 2005 Passing: 2-4-0, 45 yards, 2 TD total; 1-2-0, 25 yards in 2006 (25-yard TD pass to Nate Swift vs. Texas); 1-2-0, 20 yards in 2007, (20-yard TD pass to Sean Hill vs. Iowa State) Single-Game Highs Rushing Attempts 30 vs. Nevada, 2007 Rushing Yards 233 vs. Nevada, 2007 Long Rush 51 vs. Troy, 2007 Rushing Touchdowns 3 vs. Troy, 2006, vs. Nevada, 2007 Receptions 13 vs. Texas A&M, 2007 (Nebraska RB record) Receiving Yards 125 vs. Texas A&M, 2007; Long Reception 62 vs. Kansas, 2007 #76 Lydon Murtha Offensive Line Sr. Three Letters Hutchinson, Minn.» 2007 Honorable-Mention All-Big 12 (Coaches)» 2007 First-Team Academic All-Big 12» Three-Time Big 12 Commissioner's Fall Honor Roll (2004, 2006, 2007)» 2007 Big 12 Commissioner s Spring Academic Honor Roll Senior tackle Lydon Murtha returns to the Nebraska offensive front in 2008 after anchoring the right side of the Nebraska line for the majority of last season. This spring the 6-7, 310-pound Murtha is intent on securing his place in the starting lineup after missing the final four games of last season with a foot injury. He has fully recovered from the injury and is 100 percent for spring ball. Murtha is one of four returning offensive linemen who made at least eight starts a year ago. Murtha started eight games last season and has 14 career starts entering his senior campaign. Murtha was a key part of a Husker offensive line that allowed the NU offense to set school passing records in 2007 by averaging better than 323 yards per game through the air. In addition to finishing seventh nationally in passing offense, the Huskers ranked ninth in total offense. The line was also strong in run blocking, allowing Marlon Lucky to surpass the 1,000-yard rushing barrier. Murtha s injury-plagued career continued as a toe injury forced him to miss the season s final four games. Murtha played in all 14 games in 2006, and drew starting assignments at left tackle against Missouri, Colorado and Auburn. He was part of a Nebraska offensive line that made major improvements and helped the Huskers rank 14th nationally in total offense and in the top 25 in all four major offensive statistical categories. Murtha helped protect quarterback Zac Taylor, who set Nebraska single-season records with 3,197 passing yards and 26 touchdowns. The offensive line also helped pave the way for four Husker I-backs who gained more than 2,400 yards and ran for 26 touchdowns as a group. In addition to his play at tackle, Murtha also was a member of the Huskers PAT and field goal units. Murtha played in nine games in 2005, including three starts at left tackle. Murtha provided depth behind Cornealius Fuamatu-Thomas before moving into the starting lineup against Oklahoma. Late in the season, Murtha split time with Chris Patrick after Fuamatu-Thomas was lost for the year with an injury. The play of the offensive line helped Nebraska post the top two passing efforts in school history in Murtha suffered a leg injury during fall camp and redshirted in 2004, after being one of the nation s top prep offensive line prospects out of Hutchinson High in Minnesota NEBR ASK A SPRING FOOTBALL #70 Matt Slauson Offensive Line Sr. Three Letters Colorado Springs, Colo. (Air Force Prep)» 2007 Second-Team All-Big 12 (Rivals.com)» 2007 Honorable-Mention All-Big 12 (AP)» 2006 Second-Team All-Big 12 (AP, Kansas City Star, Houston Chronicle, Ft. Worth Star-Telegram, San Antonio Express-News)» 2006 Honorable-Mention All-Big 12 (Coaches) Matt Slauson enters spring practice as one of Nebraska s most experienced performers on either side of the ball. Slauson has been a regular on the Nebraska offensive line since late in his freshman campaign in He has the versatility to line up at either guard or tackle and will be looked at as a leader of a deep and veteran offensive line in Slauson has made 22 starts over the past three seasons and brings a physical presence to the offensive line. Last season Slauson spent the majority of his practice time during the spring and fall camp at guard and went on to play in all 12 games. He made eight starts at three different positions, including right guard and both tackle spots. Slauson and fellow junior Mike Huff rotated as the starter at right guard for the first 10 games of the season. Slauson then started at left tackle against Kansas State, before opening the game at right tackle in the season finale at Colorado. The play of Slauson and his offensive line mates helped Nebraska rank in the top 10 in both passing offense and total offense. The Huskers posted the top three passing days in school history and junior I-back Marlon Lucky passed the 1,000-yard mark on the ground. Slauson earned honorable-mention All-Big 12 honors from the Associated Press and second-team all-league mention by Rivals.com. The 6-5, 330-pound Slauson emerged as one of the Huskers top offensive linemen as a sophomore in He started the first 11 games at right tackle before suffering an ankle injury late in the year. Slauson was one of the driving forces behind an improved and balanced Nebraska offense that ranked among the nation s leaders in both rushing and passing and finished 14th in total offense. Slauson helped clear the way for NU s four-man I-back committee to combine for more than 2,400 yards rushing and 26 touchdowns. Slauson also helped provide sufficient protection for quarterback Zac Taylor to break most of the Huskers singleseason and career passing records and earn Big 12 Offensive Player-of-the-Year honors. Slauson was honored for his performance, as he was a second-team All-Big 12 performer according to several media outlets, including the Associated Press. He was also an honorable-mention all-conference pick by the Big 12 coaches. A late addition to Nebraska s 2005 signing class, Slauson joined the program just before fall camp in One of a Nebraska record 13 true freshmen to see action, Slauson was a regular on Nebraska s extra-point and field goal units throughout the year, then entered the offensive line rotation late in the season. Slauson started at right tackle against Kansas State, Colorado and Michigan. His performance was a major factor in Nebraska s 3-0 finish to the season, including what was at the time the second-best passing game in school history with 392 yards at Colorado. Slauson joined the NU program after a standout career at Air Force Preparatory School in Colorado Springs. 15

16 NEBRASKA SPRING FOOTBALL #87 Nate Swift Wide Receiver Sr. Three Letters Hutchinson, Minn.» NU Freshman Record Holder for Receptions (45), Receiving Yards (641) and Receiving TDs (7)» 2005 Honorable-Mention All-Big 12 (AP)» 2005 First-Team Freshman All-Big 12 (Sporting News)» Two-Time Second-Team Academic All-Big 12 (2005, 2006)» Two-Time Big 12 Commissioner s Fall Honor Roll (2004, 2007)» 2005 Big 12 Commissioner s Spring Honor Roll» No. 3 in Nebraska Career Receiving Yards (1,535)» No. 4 in Nebraska Career Receptions (103) Senior wideout Nate Swift enters spring practice as one of Nebraska s most experienced players on either side of the ball. Swift has played in all 38 games over the past three seasons, and enters his senior year in position to challenge the Huskers all-time receptions record. The 6-2, 200-pound Swift will be counted on for leadership in the receiving corps following the graduation of four seniors. Swift enters the 2008 campaign with 103 career receptions good for 1,535 receiving yards. His 103 catches place him fourth on the Husker career charts, 40 receptions behind Johnny Rodgers school-record total. Swift s yardage total is third on the NU list trailing Rodgers and former teammate Terrence Nunn, while his 12 career touchdown receptions place him within striking distance of second on that Husker list. The 2007 campaign was Swift s third consecutive solid season, playing in all 12 games with eight starts at X receiver. He finished third on the team with 36 receptions for 520 yards, an average of 14.4 yards per catch. Swift had five games with four or more catches and had at least one reception in 11 games last season. Swift caught five passes for 45 yards in the Huskers road win at Wake Forest, then had four catches for 56 yards against top-ranked USC. After his first touchdown of the year against Ball State, Swift had four catches each against Iowa State and Missouri. Swift produced his top game of the season at Texas with a season-high six catches for 112 yards and two touchdowns, the third two-touchdown game of his career. He caught a 24-yard touchdown pass from Sam Keller just before halftime, and added a 23-yard score in the third quarter. He was also on the receiving end of a two-point conversion in the game. Swift caught a pair of passes against Kansas State to crack the century mark in career receptions. Swift played in all 14 games with two starts in 2006, and finished with 22 catches for 374 yards, an average of 17.0 yards per catch. He concluded the year with a catch in each of Nebraska s final 11 games, and had touchdown catches against Texas and Auburn. Swift opened the season with three receptions for 46 yards in the win over Louisiana Tech, then had three catches for 79 yards against Troy, including a career-long 49- yard reception. He set up NU s winning overtime score against Kansas with a 21-yard reception to the Jayhawk 1. Swift s first touchdown against Texas came from I-back Marlon Lucky on a halfbackoption pass. The 25-yard score helped NU take a late fourth-quarter lead. He added two catches for 56 yards against Missouri, then capped the year with three receptions against Auburn, including a 13-yard touchdown to open the scoring. Swift had two punt returns for 49 yards against Nicholls State, including an NU season-long 33-yarder. Swift was impressive as a redshirt freshman in 2005, finishing as the team leader in receptions (45), receiving yardage (641) and receiving touchdowns (7). Swift s numbers all set school freshman records and earned him honorable-mention All-Big 12 honors. At the time his 45 catches were the third-most in Nebraska history. His seven scoring receptions all came in the final six games, marking the most in a season for a Husker since tight end Gerald Armstrong had seven in In Big 12 games, Swift averaged 5.3 catches and 76.3 yards per game to rank sixth in the conference. Swift had the top three single-game reception efforts by a Husker freshman with three games of seven or more catches. His 135-yard receiving effort at Missouri represented the most receiving yards ever by a Husker freshman in a regularseason game. After not catching a pass during non-league play, Swift caught five passes for 81 yards in a win over Iowa State, helping NU to 431 passing yards. Swift was at his best in the season s final six games, beginning with his nine-catch effort at Missouri, including his first career score. He put together another big game the following week against Oklahoma with nine receptions for 116 yards and two touchdowns. His backto-back nine-catch games tied for sixth-most by a Husker in a game. He was also the first Husker with consecutive 100-yard receiving games since Irving Fryar in Swift added seven catches for 109 yards and two touchdowns against Kansas State, including a season-long 34-yard reception. He joined Johnny Rodgers and Irving Fryar as the only Huskers with three, 100-yard receiving games in a season. Swift capped the year with four catches for 77 yards and a touchdown at Colorado, and three receptions and a score against Michigan in the Alamo Bowl. Swift redshirted in his first season at Nebraska in Swift s Career Statistics Receiving Year G/S No. Yds. Y/R Y/G Long TDs 2004 Redshirt / vs. Kansas State / vs. Troy / at Texas 3 Totals 38/ , vs. Troy 12 Punt Returns: total; in 2006; in 2007 long 33-Nicholls State, 2007 Single-Game Bests: Receptions 9 vs. Missouri, 2005 Receiving Yards 135 vs. Missouri, 2005 Long Reception 49 yards vs. Troy, 2006 Touchdowns 2, vs. Oklahoma, Kansas State, 2005; at Texas, 2007 Returning Starters Defense #4 Larry Asante Safety Jr. One Letter Alexandria, Va. (Hayfield/Coffeyville CC)» 2007 Honorable-Mention All-Big 12 (Coaches)» 2007 Big 12 Commissioner s Spring Honor Roll Junior safety Larry Asante had a solid first season with the Husker defense in The 6-1, 210-pound Asante provides a physical presence on the back end of the Husker defense, and he will enter spring practice looking to establish himself as a leader in a Nebraska secondary that lost six key senior performers. Asante joined the Husker program last January and went through spring practice. He quickly showed his ability to be a difference maker and won the starting strong safety job. Asante went on to play in all 12 games, including 10 starts and finished second on the team in tackles with 78, including 38 solo stops. Asante recorded at least eight tackles six times in 2007, including a season-high 10 stops against Texas A&M, and made at least two tackles in all 12 games. He had nine tackles in four games Wake Forest, Iowa State, Texas and Kansas and made eight tackles against top-ranked USC. Asante also forced a fumble against the Trojans and finished the year with four pass breakups, including two at Texas. His play in his first season at the Division I level earned Asante honorable-mention All-Big 12 honors from the conference coaches. Asante came to Nebraska from Coffeyville (Kan.) Community College, where he starred as a linebacker. He was one of six junior-college players to join the NU program in January of Asante s Career Statistics Defense ( Tackles ) Fum. QB Year G/S UT AT TT TFL Sacks C-R BK PBU PI Hry / Single-Game Bests Tackles 10 vs. Texas A&M, 2007 Solo Tackles 7 at Texas, 2007 Pass Breakups 2 at Texas, 2007

17 #5 Armando Murillo Cornerback Sr. One Letter Tampa, Fla. (Robinson/Eastern Arizona CC) Cornerback Armando Murillo heads into spring practice as the lone returnee from a four-player cornerback rotation in The 6-0, 190-pound Murillo started all 12 games during his junior season and will be asked to step into a leadership role this spring after Nebraska lost six regulars in the secondary to graduation. Murillo joined the program in January and quickly showed during spring practice that he would be a factor in the defensive backfield. He went on to start all 12 games, one of only two NU defenders to be in the starting lineup in every game. The Florida native finished the season fourth on the team in tackles with 71 stops, including 43 solo tackles, the second-highest total by a Husker. Murillo also tied senior Cortney Grixby with a team-high seven pass breakups. Murillo had at least three tackles in every game in 2007, including eight games with five or more tackles. He made a season-high nine stops in a victory over Iowa State, and had at least six tackles in each of the final six games with eight vs. Oklahoma State and Colorado. Murillo also had three tackles for loss, including two for four yards in a rout of Kansas State. Murillo came to Nebraska from Eastern Arizona Community College, and he was one of six players to join the Huskers in January of Murillo s Career Statistics Defense ( Tackles ) Fum. QB Year G/S UT AT TT TFL Sacks C-R BK PBU PI Hry / Single-Game Bests: Tackles 9 vs. Iowa State, 2007 Solo Tackles 7 vs. Iowa State, Colorado, 2007 Tackles for Loss 2 vs. Kansas State, 2007 Pass Breakups 1, seven times #98 Zach Potter Defensive End Sr. Three Letters Omaha, Neb. (Creighton Prep)» 2007 Honorable-Mention All-Big 12 (Coaches)» 2007 Second-Team Academic All-Big 12» 2006 First-Team Academic All-Big 12» Two-Time Big 12 Commissioner s Spring Academic Honor Roll (2006, 2007)» Two-Time Big 12 Commissioner's Fall Academic Honor Roll (2005, 2007) Defensive end Zach Potter is part of a Husker starting defensive line that returns intact for the 2008 season. An Omaha native, Potter had a breakout season in 2007 as he finished second on the team in tackles for loss after seeing reserve duty in his first two years in the program. The 6-7, 280-pound Potter is leading contender to again hold down a starting end spot and should be a leader for the Huskers this fall. Potter quickly showed his ability to handle a starting role in 2007 and played in all 12 games with 11 starts at base end. Potter finished with 45 tackles, the most among defensive linemen, while his 11 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks were second on the team. His play earned Potter honorable-mention All-Big 12 honors from the conference coaches. Potter had five games with five or more tackles in 2007, including a career-high six against both USC and Oklahoma State. Potter had five tackles, two tackles for loss and a sack in NU s win at Wake Forest. Despite not starting because of an injury ankle, Potter closed non-league play with a strong showing against Ball State, finishing with four tackles, two tackles for loss, a sack, a fumble caused and a pair of hurries. He had at least five tackles in a three-game stretch capped by a six-tackle effort against OSU when he also had a pass breakup. Potter added four tackles, a tackle for loss and his first career interception at Texas. Potter played in 13 games in 2006, and made three tackles while serving as the top reserve at base end. He had one stop each against Nicholls State, Oklahoma State and Texas A&M. Potter was also a regular on both NU s field goal/pat and field goal/pat block units. Potter played in all 12 games as a true freshman, seeing limited action on the 2008 NEBR ASK A SPRING FOOTBALL defensive line and had a tackle against Wake Forest. He was a major contributor on special teams, and literally had a hand in a pair of victories. He blocked a field goal in NU s 7-6 win over Pittsburgh, before blocking a Kansas State PAT in NU s win. As a team, Nebraska blocked seven kicks on the season. Potter s Career Statistics Defense ( Tackles ) Fum. QB Year G/S UT AT TT TFL Sacks C-R BK PBU PI Hry / / / Totals 37/ Single-Game Bests: Tackles 6 vs. USC, Oklahoma State, 2007 Solo Tackles 4 vs. Oklahoma State, 2007 Tackles for Loss 2, three times in 2007 Sacks 1 vs. Wake Forest, Iowa State, 2007 #43 Ty Steinkuhler Defensive Tackle Sr. Three Letters Lincoln, Neb. (Southwest)» 2006 Big 12 Commissioner s Spring Academic Honor Roll» 2004 Big 12 Commissioner s Fall Academic Honor Roll Defensive tackle Ty Steinkuhler enters his senior season looking to lead a veteran Nebraska defensive line. Steinkuhler was one of four new starters on the defensive front last season, however the unit returns intact for 2008 and will now look to become a strength of the Husker defense. The 6-3, 280-pounder has experience at both tackle and end and brings versatilty to a new NU defensive system. Steinkuhler battled injuries during the first half of the year, but played in 10 games with eight starting assignments. He finished the year with 13 total tackles and had four tackles for loss. Steinkuhler went down with a leg injury in the opener against Nevada and missed NU s game at Wake Forest. He returned to make three tackles against USC, then started at end against Ball State and tackle vs. Iowa State. Against the Cyclones, Steinkuhler had a six-yard tackle for loss and a fumble caused. Steinkuhler started the final five games of the season and matched his season-high with three tackles against both Texas and Kansas State. He had a tackle for loss in each of Nebraska s final two games. Steinkuhler played in all 14 games as a reserve defensive tackle in He finished the year with 22 tackles, including 15 solo stops, and had three tackles for loss. He had his first career sack against Kansas State and forced a fumble against Troy. Steinkuhler had at least one tackle in 10 games, including a career-high five stops with a tackle for loss against Troy. He added four-tackle efforts against USC and Colorado and had his third tackle for loss in the Big 12 title game against Oklahoma. Steinkuhler also action on Nebraska s PAT/field goal block unit. He played in eight games as a reserve defensive end in 2005, with his most extensive action in the final three games. Steinkuhler finished with five tackles and assisted on a pair of tackles for loss. He had a season-high three stops against Wake Forest, including a tackle for loss. His second tackle for loss came against Kansas State. Steinkuhler redshirted in his first season in the Nebraska program. Ty is the son of 1983 Outland and Lombardi Award winner Dean Steinkuhler, who helped the Huskers to one of the most prolific offensive seasons in college football history. He will be joined on the team this fall by his younger brother, Baker, the toprated recruit in the state of Nebraska in Steinkuhler s Career Statistics Defense ( Tackles ) Fum. QB Year G/S UT AT TT TFL Sacks C-R BK PBU PI Hry Redshirted / / / Totals 32/ Single-Game Bests: Tackles 5 vs. Troy, 2007 Solo Tackles 4 vs. USC, Troy, 2007 Tackles for Loss 1, nine times Sacks 0.5 vs. Kansas State,

18 2008 NEBRASKA SPRING FOOTBALL #93 Ndamukong Suh Defensive Tackle Jr. Two Letters Portland, Ore. (Grant)» 2006 First-Team Freshman All-Big 12 (Sporting News) Junior defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh (pronounced En-dom-ah-ken Soo) figures to be a prominent member of the Nebraska defensive front in Suh is one of four returning starters on the defensive front who hope to make the unit a strength for Nebraska. However, the 6-4, 300-pound Suh will have to wait until fall to establish himself in NU s new defense as knee surgery in early March will sideline him for the spring season. Suh is expected to be at full strength for the start of fall camp in August. Suh held down the interior of the defensive line, playing in all 12 contests with 11 starts in He finished the year with 34 tackles, including 20 solo stops, and had four games with four or more tackles. Suh made six tackles for loss, all in a four-game stretch early in the season. Suh played a key role in NU s win at Wake Forest, recording two tackles for loss. Both of his stops behind the line occurred inside the Nebraska 10-yard line, one forcing Wake to kick a field goal and the other helping result in a game-saving interception in the fourth quarter. Suh had four tackles and a tackle for loss against top-ranked USC, then made a career-high six tackles, including a TFL and recovered a fumble against Ball State. In Nebraska s win against Iowa State, Suh had four solo stops, two tackles for loss and a six-yard sack. He added three tackles and blocked an extra point against Texas A&M, then closed the year with five tackles and two pass breakups at Colorado. Suh played in all 14 games off the bench and was among the team leaders in both tackles for loss (8) and sacks (3.5) in His play resulted in first-team freshman All-Big 12 honors. He totaled at least one tackle for loss in five of seven games to start the year, including a three-tfl effort featuring 1.5 sacks against Troy and NU s lone sack against USC. He added three stops against both Nicholls State and Kansas State, when he also finished with two tackles for loss, a sack, a fumble caused an interception and two quarterback hurries. Suh also saw time on special teams as a blocker on the place-kicking unit. Suh was one of a school-record 13 true freshmen to see action in He played in the first two games and had an assisted tackle against Wake Forest before missing the remainder of the season after undergoing knee surgery. He received a medical redshirt. Suh came to Nebraska from Portland, Ore., and was NU s first-ever scholarship signee from Oregon. Suh s Career Statistics Defense ( Tackles ) Fum. QB Year G/S UT AT TT TFL Sacks C-R BK PBU PI Hry. 2005* 2/ / / Totals 28/ *-Received medical redshirt Single-Game Bests Tackles 6 vs. Ball State, 2007 Solo Tackles 4 vs. Ball State, at Colorado, 2007 Sacks 1.5 vs. Troy, 2006 Tackles for Loss 3-19 vs. Troy, 2006 #99 Barry Turner Defensive End Sr. Three Letters Antioch, Tenn. (Brentwood Academy)» 2005 First-Team Freshman All-American (Football Writers, ESPN.com, Rivals.com)» Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Week (11/24/06) Barry Turner is the most experienced of four returning starters along the Nebraska defensive line. The 6-3, 260-pound Turner has been in Nebraska s regular rotation at defensive end since bursting onto the scene as a true freshman in Turner moved into a starting role last fall and is expected to emerge as a leader on the Husker defense in Turner uses his speed on the edge to be a disruptive force for opposing quarterbacks. He enters his senior season with 10.5 career sacks and 17 career tackles for loss. His sack total leaves Turner just five sacks from cracking the career top 10 list at Nebraska. Turner missed spring ball after shoulder surgery, but played in all 12 games with 11 starts at the open end spot in He made 29 total tackles, including five tackles for loss and a team-high three sacks for 33 yards. Turner had five games with three or more tackles and his seven quarterback hurries ranked second on the team. He opened the year by sharing a sack and adding two quarterback hurries against Nevada. Turner made four tackles against Wake Forest and five againt Ball State. He then produced his most completed game against Iowa State with three tackles, all four loss, 1.5 sacks for nine yars and two quarterback hurries. Turner added two hurries against Texas A&M, then capped the year in strong fashion. He had three tackles, incuding a 19-yard sack of Josh Freeman against Kansas State, then matched his season-high with five tackles at Colorado. He played in all 14 games as a reserve end in 2006, seeing action primarily in pass-rush situations. He finished with 18 tackles, including 11 solo stops, four tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks. He registered multiple stops in six games and ranked among the team leaders in quarterback hurries with six, while he also claimed his first career pass breakup and his third career blocked kick. Turner played a key role in NU s Big 12 North-clinching win at Texas A&M. He had three tackles and was in on a pair of sacks. Turner also blocked an Aggie field goal with less than two minutes remaining that set up the Huskers winning drive in a victory. Turner was in on another big special-teams play against Colorado as he scored his only career touchdown on a pass from backup quarterback Joe Ganz during a fake field-goal attempt. The reception marked Turner s first career catch and helped him earn Big 12 Special Teams Player-of-the-Week honors. A Nashville native, Turner made his mark as a true freshman in 2005, notching a Husker freshman record six sacks and earning first-team freshman All-America honors. A key factor in NU ranking first nationally in both sacks and tackles for loss, Turner tied for the national sack lead among freshmen. He tied for third on the team in sacks, and made 14 total tackles, with six hurries and two blocked field goals. Turner s best statistical performance came at Baylor, as he set season highs in tackles (four), tackles for loss (three) and sacks (two). He had blocked field goals against Oklahoma and Kansas State. Turner s Career Statistics Defense ( Tackles ) Fum. QB Year G/S UT AT TT TFL Sacks C-R BK PBU PI Hry / / / Totals 38/ Single-Game Highs Tackles 5 vs. Ball State, at Colorado, 2007 Solo Tackles 4 vs. Baylor, 2005 Tackles for Loss 3 vs. Baylor, 2005, vs. Iowa State, 2007 Sacks 2-15 vs. Baylor, Senior end Barry Turner is one of four returning starters on the defensive front.

19 Returning Starters Kickers #90 Alex Henery Place-Kicker So. One Letter Omaha, Neb. (Burke)» 2007 First-Team Freshman All-Big 12 (Sporting News) Alex Henery handled the Huskers extra-point duties and short and mid-range field goals in 2007, and exhibited the poise of a veteran. An Omaha native Henery had a perfect place-kicking season as a redshirt freshman and will look to secure his role during spring practice. Henery and true freshman Adi Kunalic took an uncertain kicking situation etnering the year and made it a strength by season s end. Henery was a perfect 45-of-45 on extra-point tries and made all eight of his field goal attempts. Henery recorded the ninth perfect PAT season in school history and became the first player in school history with at least five field goal attempts in a season without a miss. His performance earned Henery first-team freshman All-Big 12 honors from The Sporting News. Henery connected on a pair of first-half field goals in Nebraska s win at Wake Forest. He added a 37-yarder against USC in the second quarter, then connected on two field goals, including a season-long 39-yarder at Missouri. He added single field goals against Texas, Kansas and Kansas State. Henery had a season-high 10 extra points against Kansas State, with six against Nevada and five in three other games. Henery s only punt was a 32-yarder against USC that was downed inside the Trojan 5-yard line. A football and soccer standout at Omaha Burke High School, Henery is a walk-on performer who redshirted in his first season at Nebraska. Henery s Career Statistics Scoring Field Goal Range Year G/S PAT FG.Pct TP PPG Lg / Single-Game Highs Field Goals 2 vs. Wake Forest, Missouri, 2007 Long Field Goal 39 yards at Missouri, 2007 PAT Made 10 vs. Kansas State, 2007 #20 Adi Kunalic Place-Kicker So. One Letter Fort Worth, Texas (North Crowley)» 2007 Big 12 Commissioner s Fall Academic Honor Roll Sophomore Adi Kunalic is part of an impressive group of returning specialsts for Nebraska in Kunalic made an immediate impact for the Huskers as a true freshman, ranking among the nation s best kickoff specialists. This spring, Kunalic will look to expand his kicking role while competing with fellow sophomore Alex Henery and senior Jake Wesch. Kunalic gave Nebraska a key special teams weapon in 2007, negating the move of kickoffs to the 30-yard line. The Texas native delivered 28 touchbacks in 66 attempts and his 42.4 percent touchback rate was the best of any kicker in the country. Nebraska s 28 team touchbacks ranked third in the nation. The strong-legged Kunalic quickly showed his ability with a season-high six touchbacks against Nevada in the opener. He also connected on a 46-yard field goal against the Wolf Pack in his only attempt of the year. Kunalic added four touchbacks each against Ball State, Iowa State and Kansas State and had at least one touchback in 10 of 12 games. The average length of his kickoffs was 65.7 yards. Kunalic came to Nebraska after a standout prep career at North Crowley High School in Fort Worth. Kunalic s Career Statistics Field Goals 1-1, 46-yarder vs. Nevada, 2007 PATs 1-1 vs. Nevada, 2007 Touchbacks 28 in 66 kickoffs in 2007 Single-Game Touchbacks 6 vs. Nevada, NEBR ASK A SPRING FOOTBALL #97 Dan Titchener Punter Sr. Two Letters Cheyenne, Wyo. (East)» Two-Time First-Team Academic All-Big 12 (2006, 2007)» 2007 Honorable-Mention All-Big 12 (Coaches)» Brook Berringer Citizenship Team (2006, 2007)» Four-Time Big 12 Commissioner s Fall Academic Honor Roll (2004, 2005, 2006, 2007)» Three-Time Big 12 Commissioner s Spring Honor Roll (2005, 2006, 2007) Senior punter Dan Titchener has provided Nebraska with a steady foot over the past two seasons. Titchener has downed 42 punts inside the opposition s 20-yard line over the past two seasons and has had just one of his punt attempts blocked. Titchener is part of an impressive group of specialists returning for 2008, and he could be a contender for All-Big 12 honors in his final season with the Huskers. Originally a walk-on, Titchener earned a scholarship prior to the 2007 season. Titchener started all 12 games during the 2007 season and finished the year with 49 punts for a 41.3-yard average, an improvement of two yards per attempt from his previous season. Titchener averaged 41.8 yards or more in seven of 12 games during 2007, and had at least one punt of 44 yards or more in 10 games. Titchener placed 16 of his punts inside the 20-yard line, including five games with two or more downed inside the 20-yard line. Titchener had a career-best 45.0-yard average on five punts at Wake Forest, including three downed inside the 20. He dropped a season-high four punts inside the 20-yard line in Nebraska s near-miss at Texas, when he averaged 42.6 yards per boot. Titchener s performance earned him honorable-mention All-Big 12 accolades from the league coaches. Titchener helped NU rank 24th nationally in net punting in 2006, primarily on the strength of downing 26 punts inside the 20-yard line and forcing 28 fair catches. He compiled a 39.3-yard per kick average, with five punts of more than 50 yards, including a career-long 58-yarder at Oklahoma State. Titchener averaged at least 40 yards per punt eight times in In the Big 12 title game against Oklahoma, Titchener set a conference title-game record with six punts inside the 20. He placed at least three kicks inside the 20 on three other occassions Kansas (3), Kansas State (4) and Texas (4). He allowed just 18 of his punts to be returned for a total of 73 yards. Titchener served as a backup, but did not play in a game in A walk-on, Titchener redshirted and backed up Sam Koch at punter. Titchener s Career Statistics Punting Year G/S No. Yds. Avg. I20 Long 2004 Redshirt / / , vs. Oklahoma State / , at Texas Totals 26/ , vs. Oklahoma State Single-Game Bests: Punts 8 vs. Kansas State, 2006, at Texas, 2007 Punting Yards 341 at Texas, 2007 Punting Average (min. 2 punts) 45.0 vs. Wake Forest, 2007 (5-225) Long Punt 58 vs. Oklahoma State, 2006 Number of Career Punts of 50-Plus Yards 7, 5 in 2006, 2 in 2007 Most Punts Downed Inside 20-Yard Line 6 vs. Oklahoma,

20 2008 NEBRASKA SPRING FOOTBALL Other Offensive Returning Lettermen #72 Jaivorio Burkes Offensive Line So. One Letter Phoenix, Ariz. (Moon Valley)» 2007 First-Team Freshman All-Big 12 (Sporting News) Sophomore Jaivorio Burkes will enter spring practice with the goal of earning a spot in the regular rotation in a deep and talented offensive line. The Phoenix native is one of five returning lineman who made at least three starts a year ago. The 6-5, 325-pound Burkes performed well under difficult circumstances in his Nebraska debut as a true freshman in Burkes waited patiently in the wings and impressed Nebraska coaches on the scout team until late in the season. However, a season-ending foot injury to starter Lydon Murtha forced Burkes into action late in the season. He moved into a starting role at right tackle at No. 17 Texas. He played in the final four games of the season, also starting against Kansas and Kansas State. Burkes play helped the Nebraska offense rack up big numbers down the stretch, as NU averaged yards of total offense in the season s final four games. Burkes play in a short period of time earned him first-team freshman All-Big 12 honors from The Sporting News. Burkes was one of five recruits from Arizona in the 2007 recruiting class and one of 11 true freshman to see action last year. #82 Wes Cammack Wide Receiver Jr. Two Letters DeWitt, Neb. (Tri County)» 2007 First-Team Academic All-Big 12» Two-Time Big 12 Commissioner s Spring Academic Honor Roll (2006, 2007)» Three-Time Big 12 Commissioner s Fall Academic Honor Roll (2005, 2006, 2007) Junior Wes Cammack has helped provide Nebraska with excellent depth in the receiving corps each of the past two seasons. Also a strong contributor on special teams, Cammack hopes to use spring practice as an opportunity to move into the regular receiving rotation after NU graduated four senior receivers. During his sophomore season, Cammack saw action in 11 of 12 games, primarily on special teams. He made three tackles on Nebraska s coverage units, with single tackles against Wake Forest, Ball State and Kansas State. He also saw limited action as a receiver. A walk-on performer, Cammack played in two games as a redshirt freshman in 2006, seeing action against Colorado and Auburn. Cammack redshirted in his first season in the program in #19 Quentin Castille I-Back So. One Letter LaPorte, Texas Quentin Castille quickly earned playing time in the backfield as a true freshman in The powerful Castille served as Marlon Lucky s top backup at I-back for most of the season and was used heavily in short yardage and goal-line situations. Castille will look to continue to develop into a more complete back during spring ball and figures to have an impact in the Nebraska offense in The 6-1, 245-pound Castille finished as Nebraska s second-leading rusher with 76 carries for 343 yards and four touchdowns. Castille had four games with 50 or more rushing yards, and had five or more carries seven times. He lost only four yards on his 76 rushing attempts and added three catches for 33 yards during the year. Castille wasted no time making a name for himself, carrying 18 times for 78 yards and two touchdowns in his collegiate debut against Nevada, helping NU roll up more than 400 yards on the ground. Castille had six carries for 28 yards at Wake Forest, then had five carries for 16 yards and his second touchdown in a one-point win over Ball State. He also had his first career reception against the Cardinals. Castille had his top game of 2007 with 20 carries for 102 yards against Oklahoma State, including a season-long 23-yard run. He added nine carries for 60 yards and a touchdown a week later against Texas A&M. Castille rumbled for 50 yards on 11 carries against Kansas State, and caught his second pass of the season. He added his third reception of the year in the season finale at Colorado. One of 11 true freshmen to see action in 2008, Castille was regarded as one of the top power backs in the country following his prep career at La Porte (Texas) High. Castille s Career Statistics Rushing Year G/S Att. Gain Loss Net Y/A Y/G Long TDs / vs. Okla. St. 4 Receiving: , long-15 vs. Ball State Single-Game Highs Rushes 20 vs. Oklahoma State, 2007 Rushing Yards 102 vs. Oklahoma State, 2007 Long Rush 23 vs. Oklahoma State, 2007 Touchdowns 2 vs. Nevada, 2007 #12 Joe Ganz Quarterback Sr. Two Letters Palos Heights, Ill. (Amos Alonzo Stagg)» Nebraska Single-Game Record Holder for Passing Yards (510), Total Offense (528) and Passing TD (7)» 2004 Nebraska Offensive Scout Team MVP» Three-Time Big 12 Commissioner's Spring Academic Honor Roll (2005, 2006, 2007)» Two-Time Big 12 Commissioner s Fall Academic Honor Roll (2005, 2007) Quarterback Joe Ganz enters spring practice full of confidence fresh off a recordsetting three-game stretch to finish his junior season. The Huskers No. 2 signal caller for nearly all of the past three seasons, Ganz made the most of his opportunity to start last season after Sam Keller went down with a season-ending injury. The 6-1, 210-pound Ganz will go into spring with his eyes on securing the starting quarterback job before fall camp. In addition to the ability to post prolific passing numbers, Ganz adds another dimension to the Husker offense with his mobility. Ganz lost a close battle for the starting job to Keller during 2007 fall camp and served as the backup through the season s first eight games. Ganz appeared in Nebraska victories over Nevada and Iowa State. He then got his first regular opportunity at Texas when Keller suffered a shoulder injury late in the game. Ganz came off the bench to finish a touchdown drive and converted a two-point play to pull Nebraska within three in the waning moments. The Chicago native then took the reins of the Husker offense for the final three games. At Kansas, Ganz completed 25-of-50 passes for 405 yards and four touchdowns, including three to Maurice Purify. He also rushed five times for 11 yards and a first-quarter touchdown. A week later, Ganz shattered several Nebraska records in a rout of Kansas State. He completed 30-of-40 passes for a Husker record 510 yards and connected on a school-record seven touchdown passes, two better than the previous mark. Ganz added 18 rushing yards in the game, and his 528 yards of total offense also set a Nebraska game record. Ganz did not let up in the finale at Colorado. He completed 31-of-58 passes for 484 yards and four touchdowns. He also rushed for 37 yards and two touchdowns. Ganz s numbers against the Buffs represented the second-best single-game passing and total offensive numbers in school history. On the season, Ganz completed 58.6 percent of his passes for 1,435 yards and 16 touchdowns. He also rushed 20 times for 93 yards and three touchdowns. In the month of November alone, Ganz accounted for three of the five 400-yard passing days in school history, in addition to three of the top five games in total offense. His 15 touchdown passes in a three-game stretch were a school record and he guided Nebraska to an average of yards of total offense in his three starts. Ganz also had a receiver tie the school record for touchdown catches in a game in each of his three starts. Entering his senior year, Ganz has thrown a touchdown pass on 12 percent of his passing attempts (19 in 165 attempts). Ganz performed well as Zac Taylor s backup in 2006, appearing in five games. He threw for 122 yards and three touchdowns, without an interception. He completed 20

21 2-of-3 passes against Louisiana Tech for 45 yards, including a 29-yard touchdown to Hunter Teafatiller. Ganz saw extensive action against Nicholls State and Troy, completing two passes in each game. He passed for 35 yards against Nicholls State and 13 yards, including a touchdown pass to Matt Senske against Troy. The most memorable play for Ganz in 2006 came against Colorado. With the game tied at 7-7 in the second quarter, Ganz came onto the field and lined up as the kicker in a field goal formation. He received the snap directly and lofted a perfect 29-yard scoring strike to defensive end Barry Turner in the end zone. Ganz was the backup quarterback for most of 2005, but did not see game action. He redshirted in 2004 and was NU's Offensive Scout Team Player of the Year. Ganz s Career Statistics Passing Year G/GS Att. Cmp. Int. Pct. Yds. Y/A Y/G LP TD Eff.R Redshirt 2005 Did Not Play / / , Totals 11/ , xxx Rushing: total; , long-28 vs. Colo. in 2007; 3 (-10)-0 in 2006; long-10 vs. Nicholls St. Single-Game Bests: Passing Attempts 58 at Colorado, 2007 (school record) Pass Completions 31 at Colorado, 2007 Passing Yards 510 yards vs. Kansas State, 2007 (school record) Passing Touchdowns 7 vs. Kansas State, 2007 (school record) Long Pass 62 yards to Marlon Lucky at Kansas, 2007 Rushes 6 vs. Kansas State, at Colorado, 2007 Rushing Yards 37 at Colorado, 2007; Rushing Touchdowns 2 at Colorado, 2007 Total Offense Attempts 64 at Colorado, 2007 (school record) Total Offense Yards 528 yards vs. Kansas State, 2007 (school record) #34 Cody Glenn I-Back Sr. Three Letters Rusk, Texas» 2007 Big 12 Commissioner s Spring Academic Honor Roll» 2007 Big 12 Commissioner s Fall Academic Honor Roll I-back Cody Glenn enters spring practice with the goal of getting back into the rotation in the Husker backfield. A key contributor each of his first two seasons, Glenn was slowed by injury last season and saw limited action. The Texas native made a mark early in his career as a short-yardage back, but has also shown the ability to be an every-down performer. The 6-0, 230-pound Glenn suffered a foot injury late in the 2006 season and continued to be bothered by leg and foot injuries last fall. Glenn finished the year with just 27 carries for 78 yards and a pair of touchdowns against top-ranked USC. He also caught six passes for 52 yards. Glenn saw extensive action early in the year, with eight carries each against Nevada, USC and Iowa State. He had 29 rushing yards against Nevada, totaled 20 yards on the ground against USC and added 27 yards vs. the Cyclones. Glenn also caught four passes for 46 yards against USC. Glenn carried twice at Missouri, then appeared in only one game the remainder of the year, carrying one time at Texas. In 2006, Glenn gained 370 yards and scored a team-high eight touchdowns despite missing five games because of injury. Glenn averaged 5.2 yards on his 71 carries and had double-figure carries four times. His production was a key part of an I-back group that totaled more than 2,400 yards and 26 touchdowns. Glenn opened the year with 13 carries for 88 yards and a touchdown against Louisiana Tech, then added 47 yards and a pair of touchdowns against Nicholls State. He had seven carries for 33 yards and scored the game-winning touchdown in Nebraska s overtime victory over Kansas. Glenn showed his ability to be a workhorse rushing a career-high 19 times for 148 yards and two touchdowns at Iowa State. Glenn had 22 rushing yards at Kansas State, then carried six times for 25 yards and two touchdowns in a victory at Texas A&M. Glenn missed the final three games of the year with a foot injury suffered against the Aggies, and he was also sidelined against Troy and Missouri. He emerged as a short-yardage back in 2005, playing behind senior Cory Ross. One of 13 true freshmen, Glenn finished the year with 131 yards rushing and four touchdowns on 45 carries. He did not play in the first two games, but appeared in seven of the final 10 contests. Glenn lost yardage on just one of his 45 carries NEBR ASK A SPRING FOOTBALL Glenn ran for 20 yards on four carries in his debut a 7-6 win over Pitt then played a huge role in the Huskers near-comeback against Texas Tech. He rushed 12 times for 39 yards, including second-quarter touchdowns of one and five yards against the Raiders. He had a season-high 41 yards in a win at Baylor. He scored his third touchdown at Missouri, then finished the season with eight carries for 18 yards and a one-yard touchdown at Colorado. He missed the Alamo Bowl with an injury. Glenn s Career Statistics Rushing Year G/S Att. Gain Loss Net Y/A Y/G Long TDs / vs. Tx. Tech / vs. Iowa St / vs. Nevada 2 Totals 21/ vs. Iowa St. 14 Single-Game Bests: Rushing Attempts 19 at Iowa State, 2006 Rushing Yards 148 at Iowa State, 2006 Long Rush 36, at Iowa State, 2006 Rushing Touchdowns 2, five times, most recently vs. USC, 2007 #10 Roy Helu Jr. I-Back So. One Letter Danville, Calif. (San Ramon Valley) Roy Helu Jr. was one of two true freshman running backs to play a significant role in the Nebraska offense in Helu emerged late in the season and along with fellow sophomore Quentin Castille provided Nebraska with a young one-two punch in the backfield. Helu enters spring ball looking to secure a role in a talented stable of Nebraska running backs. Helu played in just two of the first six games of the season, but was a key performer in a five-game stretch in the second half of the year. He finished as Nebraska s thirdleading rusher with 45 carries for 209 yards, an average of 4.6 yards per tote. Helu also showed the ability to catch the ball, snaring five passes for 40 yards. The Californian had six carries for 26 yards in the opener against Nevada, then had four carries for 13 yards and a reception against Ball State. He carried a seasonhigh 14 times for 55 yards against Oklahoma State. Helu also caught a season-long 21-yard pass against the Cowboys. Helu added 39 rushing yards against Texas A&M, 14 yards at Texas and had nine carries for a season-high 56 yards at Kansas. His performance against the Jayhawks included a season-long 24-yard run. Helu carried twice against Kansas State, and did not see action at Colorado in the season finale. Helu was one of three running back prospects in the Huskers 2007 signing class, and was one of 11 true freshmen to see action last season. Helu s Career Statistics Rushing Year G/S Att. Gain Loss Net Y/A Y/G Long TDs / at Kansas 0 Receiving: , long-21 vs. Oklahoma State Single-Game Highs Rushes 14 vs. Oklahoma State, 2007 Rushing Yards 56 at Kansas, 2007 Long Rush 24 at Kansas,

22 2008 NEBRASKA SPRING FOOTBALL #8 Will Henry Wide Receiver So. One Letter El Paso, Texas (J.M. Hanks)» 2007 Brook Berringer Citizenship Team» 2006 Big 12 Commissioner s Fall Academic Honor Roll Sophomore Will Henry enters spring practice with his sights set on making a push for playing time in a re-tooled Nebraska receiving corps. The 6-5, 215-pound Henry is part of a group of talented young players who will look to fill the shoes of four graduated senior receivers. Henry has seen limited action to this point in his career, but has the size to cause mismatches against opposing defenders. Henry appeared in two games last season, seeing action against Ball State and Iowa State. He did not record any statistics, but made valuable progress in practice throughout the season. Henry quickly developed a reputation as one of the hardest workers on the squad during his redshirt year in #18 Menelik Holt Wide Receiver Jr. Two Letters San Diego, Calif. (St. Augustine) Wide receiver Menelik (pronounced men-uh-leak) Holt has seen reserve action at receiver during each of the past two seasons. However, Holt s role is likely to change beginning with spring practice. After the graduation of four senior receivers, Holt is at the head of a group of wideouts who are expected to make a push for significant playing time in Holt saw action in all 12 games last season, both as a reserve at the X receiver spot and on special teams. He saw his playing time increase late in the season and he made the most of his opportunity. Holt caught four passes for 97 yards in the season s final four games, the first catches of his career. He caught a 13-yard pass at Kansas, then followed with a career-long 35-yard catch against Kansas State. In the season finale at Colorado, Holt had two catches for 49 yards. Holt played a limited role in his first season in 2006, appearing in eight games, including duty on the punt block and kickoff coverage squad. Holt played in three of the first four games and saw action in five of the final six games. Holt helped Nebraska rank among the national leaders in kickoff return defense. Holt was one of the first players to join the 2006 Husker recruiting class and was a highly touted prospect from San Diego. Holt s Career Statistics Receiving Year G/S No. Yds. Y/R Y/G Long TDs / / vs. Kansas State 0 Totals 20/ vs. Kansas State 0 Single-Game Bests: Receptions 2 at Colorado, 2007 Receiving Yards 49 at Colorado, 2007 Long Reception 35 yards vs. Kansas State, 2007 #73 D.J. Jones Offensive Line So. One Letter Omaha, Neb. (Central) D.J. Jones is part of an impressive group of returning offensive linemen for Nebraska. Jones saw extensive action as a redshirt freshman in 2007, and this spring the Omaha native will look to make a push for a starting spot. The 6-5, 305-pound Jones has the ability to play both guard and tackle, and helps make the offensive line a strength for the Huskers heading into the spring. Jones played in nine games last season, serving as a reserve guard behind Matt Slauson, Mike Huff and Jacob Hickman, while also seeing snaps at tackle. Jones and his offensive line mates helped Nebraska rank in the top 10 nationally in both passing offense and total offense. Jones sat out his first season in Lincoln as a redshirt, and helped form an impressive scout team offensive line. Jones had a star-studded prep career at Omaha Central High School. #36 Thomas Lawson Fullback Sr. Two Letters Parker, Colo. (Ponderosa) Senior fullback Thomas Lawson became a key performer in the Nebraska offense during the 2007 season. After seeing limited time in the first two years of his career, Lawson split time at fullback with senior Andy Sand last season. Lawson will head into spring practice looking to secure extensive playing time as a blocking back in the Husker attack. Lawson played in 10 games in 2007, including starting assignments against Iowa State and Texas A&M. He made the most of three catches, reaching the end zone on all three grabs. He caught two passes for 10 yards, with touchdowns of six and four yards in a win over Iowa State, and had a one-yard TD catch against Oklahoma State. Lawson helped protect Nebraska quarterbacks who guided Nebraska to a recordsetting pass season. He also provided lead blocking for Marlon Lucky who surpassed the 1,000-yard rushing mark. Lawson served as a reserve I-back in 2006 and played on kickoff coverage against Missouri and Auburn. He was a backup I-back and fullback in 2005, and saw action at Colorado. A walk-on, Lawson redshirted in his first season in Lawson s Career Statistics Receiving TD all in 2007 Touchdowns 6 yards vs. Iowa State, 4 yards vs. Iowa State, 1 yard vs. Oklahoma State #44 Mike McNeill Tight End So. One Letter Kirkwood, Mo.» 2006 Big 12 Commissioner s Fall Academic Honor Roll Tight end Mike McNeill is a player who will be expected to make a step up during spring practice. The sophomore has outstanding receiving skills and has added needed muscle to his 6-4 frame during winter conditioning. McNeill is in line to battle for significant playing time after the graduation of three senior tight ends who saw extensive action in McNeill played in eight games as a redshirt freshman in 2007, serving as a reserve behind seniors J.B. Phillips, Josh Mueller and Sean Hill. McNeill caught a 25-yard pass in the season opener against Nevada for his only catch of the season. He also had a nine-yard kickoff return at Texas. McNeill redshirted in 2006 and battled injuries. He had a leg injury early in his rookie season, then underwent shoulder surgery in December of 2006 that kept him out of spring drills. McNeill was a standout at Kirkwood (Mo.) High School. 22

23 #24 Niles Paul Wide Receiver So. One Letter Omaha, Neb. (North) Niles Paul figures to be one of the players to watch during Nebraska s 2008 spring practice session. With the loss of four senior wide receivers, Paul is one of a handful of talented young wideouts who will be looking to work their way into the receiving rotation in The 6-1, 210-pound Paul saw limited action as a true freshman, but has the size and speed to be a difference maker as a receiver and in the return game. Paul played in seven games last season, serving as a reserve receiver and also assisting on kickoff coverage. Paul made a six-yard catch in the season opener against Nevada, but did not have another catch on the year. He also had an eightyard kickoff return against Kansas State. Paul made his mark on kickoff coverage, posting assisted tackles against Nevada and Kansas State. The Omaha native was one of the top recruits in Nebraska s 2007 class and was one of 11 true freshmen to see action last fall. #17 Todd Peterson Wide Receiver Sr. Three Letters Grand Island, Neb. (Central Catholic)» Three-Time First-Team Academic All-Big 12 (2005, 2006, 2007)» 2007 Wuerffel Award Finalist» 2007 Brook Berringer Citizenship Team» Four-Time Big 12 Commissioner's Fall Honor Roll (2004, 2005, 2006, 2007)» Three-Time Big 12 Commissioner s Spring Honor Roll (2005, 2006, 2007) Todd Peterson has become one of the top receiving targets in the Nebraska offensive attack over the past three seasons and his role figures only to increase during his senior season. The 6-4, 215-pound Peterson is one of two experienced returning wideouts who will be looked to for leadership and play-making ability in the Nebraska passing game. Peterson has regularly shown the ability to use his size and speed to make big plays for the Husker offense. Peterson enters his senior season with 46 career catches for 816 yards, an impressive average of 17.7 yards per catch. The Grand Island native needs 184 receiving yards this season to become the 17th player in school history with 1,000 receiving yards. He is also in position to move into the top 10 on Nebraska s career receptions and career touchdowns lists. Peterson played in all 12 games last season, including starts against USC and Oklahoma State. He finished the year with 18 receptions for 359 yards and five touchdowns, the second-most on the team. Peterson s 19.9-yard per catch average was second on the team and 10 of his 18 catches covered at least 20 yards. Peterson had a season-high five catches for 74 yards against top-ranked USC in Lincoln, including fourth quarter touchdown catches of 20 and 18 yards. He added three catches for 43 yards against Ball State, then had a season-long 44-yard catch vs. Oklahoma State. Peterson finished strong with two catches for 59 yards at Kansas, before hauling in four passes for a career-high 85 yards and two touchdowns against Kansas State. His effort helped Nebraska post a school-record 519 passing yards and seven touchdowns against KSU. He closed the year with two catches for 46 yards, including a 30-yard touchdown catch at Colorado. Peterson also played on NU coverage units and had three tackles, including a pair of stops against Ball State. In 2006, Peterson played in all 14 games, with starts against Nicholls State and Missouri. He made 19 catches for 307 yards, an average of 16.2 yards per catch and had touchdown catches against Kansas and Texas A&M. Peterson had at least one catch in nine of 14 games. Peterson experienced a career game while helping NU earn a come-from-behind win at Texas A&M. He led the Huskers with a career-high seven catches for 82 yards. In addition to a second-quarter touchdown against the Aggies, Peterson had two key catches on the game-winning drive, including a 22-yard reception on a 4th-and-3 play. Peterson had two catches for 72 yards against Oklahoma in the Big 12 title game, including a career-long 48-yard grab NEBR ASK A SPRING FOOTBALL Peterson played in 10 games with a start at Colorado in 2005, and totaled nine catches for 150 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Peterson made his first career catch memorable when he hauled in a 21-yard pass for a touchdown against Baylor, giving Nebraska a 20-7 lead. His second catch came in the following game at Missouri and went for 34 yards and another score. Peterson had three catches for a season-high 65 yards against the Tigers. Peterson recorded catches in each of NU s last three games. In his first career start at Colorado, he tied his season high with three receptions for 54 yards, including a season-long 38-yarder that set up a second-quarter touchdown. In the Alamo Bowl, Peterson caught a two-point conversion from Zac Taylor to pull NU within in the fourth quarter. Originally a walk-on who was on academic scholarship, Peterson redshirted in in He was placed on football scholarship before the 2006 season. Peterson s Career Statistics Receiving Year G/S No. Yds. Y/R Y/G Long TDs 2004 Redshirt / vs. Colorado / vs. Oklahoma / vs. Oklahoma State 5 Totals 36/ vs. Oklahoma 9 Single-Game Highs Receptions 7 vs. Texas A&M, 2006 Receiving Yards 85 vs. Kansas State, 2007 Long Reception 48 yards vs. Oklahoma, 2006 Touchdowns 2 vs. USC, Kansas State, 2007 #65 Mike Smith Offensive Line So. One Letter Las Vegas, Nev. (Palo Verde)» 2006 Big 12 Commissioner s Fall Academic Honor Roll Sophomore Mike Smith enters spring practice looking to establish himself in Nebraska s regular rotation on the offensive line. Smith originally came to Nebraska as a defensive end, but made a successful switch to the offensive line last spring. He earned valuable playing time as a reserve tackle last season and helps make the offensive line a strength of the 2008 Husker squad. Smith played in all 12 games during the 2007 campaign, as a reserve tackle behind starters Lydon Murtha and Carl Nicks. Nebraska utilized Smith s athleticism, as he lined up as a tight end in power sets, and often blocked on the perimeter on screen plays. Smith helped Nebraska rank in the top 10 nationally in both total offense and passing offense and was also on NU s PAT and field-goal units. The Las Vegas native sat out his first season at Nebraska as a redshirt and worked at defensive end, before switching to offense. Senior Todd Peterson has 46 career receptions, including nine touchdown grabs. 23

24 2008 NEBRASKA SPRING FOOTBALL #89 Hunter Teafatiller Tight End Sr. Three Letters Kingsburg, Calif. (San Joaquin Memorial) Tight end Hunter Teafatiller has been an integral part of the Nebraska passing attack each of the past two seasons. This spring Teafatiller will look to expand his role on the offense as he is the most experienced returnee at tight end following the loss of three seniors who saw extensive action. In addition to his receiving ability, Teafatiller has continued to add strength to help as a blocker. Teafatiller played in each of the season s final 11 games in 2007, part of a deep group of tight ends, and finished the year with four receptions for 34 yards. He caught a career-high three passes for 21 yards in Nebraska s road victory at Wake Forest. Teafatiller saw extensive action throughout the remainder of the year, but his only other reception was a 13-yarder at Kansas. He also contributed on special teams and had four kickoff returns for 37 yards. Teafatiller emerged as a big-play threat in the Nebraska offense as a sophomore in He caught a total of five passes for 78 yards, but four of those went for touchdowns, as the NU tight ends combined for 10 touchdowns. He earned starts against Texas and Missouri when NU opened with three tight ends. He opened 2006 with his first career catch for a score on a 29-yard reception against Louisiana Tech. Teafatiller scored NU s first touchdown against Kansas State on a 17-yard pass from place-kicker Jake Wesch on a fake field-goal attempt. He found the end zone once again two weeks later against Missouri with another 17-yard reception. Teafatiller caught his fourth pass of the year against Colorado, then accounted for NU s lone score in the Big 12 title game against Oklahoma, with a 14-yard catch from Zac Taylor in the second quarter. He also played a role on special teams. One of a school-record 13 true freshmen to see action in 2005, Teafatiller played in each of the final seven games on the Huskers punt return unit after sitting out the first half of the year. He also saw action on NU s kickoff return unit. Teafatiller s Career Statistics Receiving Year G/S No. Yds. Y/R Y/G Long TDs / None / yards vs. La. Tech / at Kansas 0 Totals 32/ yards vs. La. Tech 4 Single-Game Bests: Receptions 3 at Wake Forest, 2007 Receiving Yards 29 vs. Louisiana Tech, 2006 Long Reception 29 yards vs. Louisiana Tech, 2006 (TD) #68 Keith Williams Offensive Line So. One Letter Florissant, Mo. (McClure North)» 2007 Big 12 Commissioner s Spring Academic Honor Roll Sophomore guard Keith Williams is a key cog in a Nebraska offensive line that returns eight lettermen for the 2008 season. The 6-5, 310-pound Williams has all the physical tools and last season gained valuable game experience. This spring Williams will look to increase his role at guard where the Huskers return three players who made at least six starts last season. Williams played in 10 games last season at guard behind starters Mike Huff, Jacob Hickman and Matt Slauson. Williams also saw action as a blocker on PAT and fieldgoal units. The offensive line was the driving force behind Nebraska finishing in the top 10 nationally in both passing offense and total offense. A native of the St. Louis area, Williams redshirted in 2006, and was part of an impressive scout team offensive line. #27 Kenny Wilson I-Back Sr. One Letter Liberal, Kan. (Butler County CC) Kenny Wilson looks to re-insert himself into the I-back picture for Nebraska this spring following a year on the sidelines because of injury. Wilson was a key part of a four-man running back rotation during the 2006 season, but was sidelined for more than a year by leg injuries. When healthy, Wilson brings an excellent combination of power and speed to the position. Wilson missed the entire 2007 campaign because of injury and redshirted. Wilson missed the Cotton Bowl at the end of the 2006 seasonwith a leg infection, then suffered a broken leg in an off-field accident last spring. He underwent subsequent surgery that sidelined him for several months, however Wilson is finally nearing 100 percent. Wilson showed why he was one of the nation s most sought-after running backs in 2006, contributing to a productive Nebraska backfield. He was one of four Husker backs to top 300 rushing yards, and the group as a whole racked up more than 2,400 rushing yards and 26 touchdowns. Wilson played in 12 games and was fourth on the team with 335 rushing yards and four touchdowns. He also caught three passes for 20 yards, while returning two kickoffs for 42 yards. Wilson was particularly effective early in the season, as he rushed for 311 yards in the first five games. He ran for 47 yards in the opener against Louisiana Tech, followed by 79 yards and a touchdown on nine carries against Nicholls State. Wilson had a career-high 19 carries the next two games against both USC and Troy. He led the Huskers with 46 yards against No. 4 USC, then broke the century mark with 106 yards against Troy, including two touchdowns. His top rushing production in conference play was four carries for 33 yards in an overtime victory over Kansas. Wilson joined the Nebraska program after two productive seasons at Butler County Community College. Wilson s Career Statistics Rushing Year G/S Att. Gain Loss Net Y/A Y/G Long TDs / vs. Nicholls St. 4 Kickoff Returns: , 21.0 average; Receiving: Single-Game Bests: Rushing Yards 106 vs. Troy, 2006 Long Rush 30 vs. Nicholls St., 2006 Rushing Touchdowns 2 vs. Troy, 2006 #49 Dreu Young Tight End So. One Letter Cozad, Neb. Dreu Young is among a group of tight ends who will have the opportunity to earn significant playing time during spring practice. Young saw limited action as a reserve last fall, but will be asked to step up in 2008 after the departure of three senior tight ends. Young has made the most of the off-season adding 20 pounds of muscle since the close of the 2007 season. A walk-on player, Young earned his way into the tight end rotation with a strong showing in fall camp. He played in eight games during the season and had a 14-yard reception against Nevada in the season opener. An in-state product from Cozad High School, Young worked with the Husker scout team and redshirted in

25 Other Defensive Returning Lettermen #95 Pierre Allen Defensive End So. One Letter Denver, Colo. (Thomas Jefferson)» 2007 Big 12 Commissioner s Spring Academic Honor Roll Defensive end Pierre Allen enters spring practice with hopes of building on a solid redshirt freshman season. Allen saw significant action as a reserve end last fall and is part of a defensive line that returns nearly intact for the 2008 season and will hope to become a strength of the Nebraska defense. The 6-5, 265-pound Allen is an outstanding athlete who has greatly improved his strength during his time in Lincoln. Allen played in 11 games as the No. 2 base end behind Zach Potter. He finished the year with 16 total tackles, including three tackles for loss. Allen played his best football late in the season, recording 15 of his 16 tackles in the final six games. Allen made four tackles, including a tackle for loss against Oklahoma State. He had three tackles and a pair of hurries at Texas, then had a season-high six tackles at Kansas, when he recorded his second tackle for loss. Allen added his third tackle for loss of the year at Colorado. The Denver native added about 40 pounds of muscle during his redshirt season with the Huskers allowing him the strength needed to compete in the Big 12. Allen s Career Statistics Defense ( Tackles ) Fum. QB Year G/S UT AT TT TFL Sacks C-R BK PBU PI Hry Redshirt / Totals 11/ Single-Game Highs Tackles 6 at Kansas, 2007 Solo Tackles 2, three times in 2007 Tackles for Loss 1, three times in 2007 #21 Prince Amukamara Defensive Back So. One Letter Glendale, Ariz. (Apollo)» 2007 Big 12 Commissioner s Fall Academic Honor Roll Defensive back Prince Amukamara (pronounced ah-moo-kuh-mara) saw limited action as a true freshman in 2007, but will have the opportunity to make an impact this spring. Amukamara is among a talented group of young players who have a chance to improve their stock in the Husker secondary following the graduation of six veterans in the defensive backfield. Amukamara has the versatility to play both cornerback and safety. The 6-1, 195-pound Amukamara did not play in the first three games, but saw action in eight of the season s final nine games. In addition to providing depth at cornerback, Amukamara was a regular on Nebraska s kickoff coverage unit. He finished the year with four tackles, two against Kansas State and one each against Ball State and Missouri. A native of Glendale, Ariz., Amukamara was one of 11 true freshman to see action for the Huskers in NEBR ASK A SPRING FOOTBALL #56 Shukree Barfield Defensive Tackle Sr. One Letter Camden, N.J. (Garden City CC) Defensive tackle Shukree (shu-kree) Barfield had a solid first season in the Husker program in 2007, serving as a reserve defensive tackle. Barfield is likely to see extensive action this spring with returning starter Ndamukong Suh sidelined with a knee injury. Barfield is a key part of a defensive line that returns all four starters as well as several key reserves. Barfield served as the top backup behind Suh in the middle of the defensive line and played in all 12 games with a start against Oklahoma State. Barfield finished the year with 15 total tackles, including seven solo, and had a tackle for loss against the Cowboys. Barfield had two or more tackles in five games, led by a season-high three stops against Texas A&M. He added two tackles each against Wake Forest, Oklahoma State, Texas and Colorado. The 6-4, 300-pound Barfield joined the Nebraska program in January of 2007 after two seasons at Garden City (Kan.) Community College. Barfield s Career Statistics Defense ( Tackles ) Fum. QB Year G/S UT AT TT TFL Sacks C-R BK PBU PI Hry / Single-Game Highs Tackles 3 vs. Texas A&M, 2007 Solo Tackles 2, at Wake Forest, 2007 Tackles for Loss 1, vs. Oklahoma State, 2007 #14 Anthony Blue Cornerback So. One Letter Cedar Hill, Texas» 2007 First-Team Freshman All-Big 12 (The Sporting News) Cornerback Anthony Blue quickly established himself as a difference-maker in the Nebraska secondary in his first season in Lincoln. Blue earned playing time from the start of the season and went on to start the final two games of Blue will be counted on in the secondary this fall after Nebraska lost three cornerbacks to graduation, however Blue will miss all of spring ball. Blue underwent surgery in early March after suffering a knee injury during winter conditioning. Nebraska coaches are hopeful the 5-10, 180-pound Blue will return for the start of fall practice in early August. Blue played in all 12 games last fall with starts against Kansas State and Colorado. He finished the year with 18 tackles, including nine solo stops. Blue opened the year as a reserve behind four veteran cornerbacks and saw his most extensive action on special teams. He made a single tackle in five of the first nine games, before recording 13 tackles in the final three games. Blue made three tackles at Kansas, then had a season-high five tackles against both KSU and Colorado. He added a breakup against the Wildcats. Blue s play was recognized as The Sporting News named him a first-team freshman all-conference player. Blue was a standout performer for Cedar Hill High, a powerhouse in the Texas Class 5A ranks. Blue s Career Statistics Defense ( Tackles ) Fum. QB Year G/S UT AT TT TFL Sacks C-R BK PBU PI Hry / Single-Game Highs Tackles 5, vs. Kansas State, at Colorado, 2007 Solo Tackles 4, at Colorado, 2007 Pass Breakups 1, vs. Kansas State,

26 NEBRASKA SPRING FOOTBALL #6 Major Culbert Safety Jr. Two Letters Harbor City, Calif. (Nathaniel Narbonne) Junior Major Culbert is a versatile athlete who has been looking to find a home during his first two seasons in the Nebraska program. This spring the California native will look to contend for playing time in the Husker secondary. The 6-0, 205-pound Culbert will begin spring ball at safety where Nebraska must replace three graduated seniors. Culbert began 2007 as a reserve I-back. He saw action at the spot against Nevada, rushing five times for 35 yards and a touchdown. The development of two true freshmen runners allowed Culbert to move back to defense for the second half of the year. He served as a reserve linebacker and made eight tackles in the season s final five games, including a season-high four stops against Texas A&M. Culbert, who also played on Nebraska s coverage teams, had a pair of tackles against Kansas. Culbert was a reserve in the secondary in 2006 and played in 12 games, with 12 tackles as a true freshman. Much of his work came on NU special teams, including the punt block and kickoff coverage units. Culbert had one tackle each in six games, and played a key role in a win over Missouri. Against the Tigers spread attack, Culbert played at linebacker in NU s 3-4 defensive package. He was up to the challenge, recording six tackles, including four solo stops, in a NU victory. Culbert partially blocked a punt in the first quarter against Colorado, setting up NU up for a touchdown and a 7-0 lead. Culbert then showed his all-around ability during bowl practice when he was asked to switch to the I-back position because of injuries. Culbert s Career Statistics Defense ( Tackles ) Fum. QB Year G/S UT AT TT TFL Sacks C-R BK PBU PI Hry / / Totals 22/ Rushing: in 2007; long-17 vs. Nevada Single-Game Highs Tackles 6 vs. Missouri, 2006 Solo Tackles 4, vs. Missouri, 2006 #52 Phillip Dillard Linebacker Jr. Two Letters Tulsa, Okla. (Jenks) Linebacker Phillip Dillard appears poised to take his game to the next level in 2008, and this spring he will get the opportunity to establish himself as a full-time starter. Dillard is the most experienced member of the NU linebacking corps following the graduation of four seasoned veterans. The 6-2, 245-pounder has seen extensive action in his career and is the front-runner to man the middle linebacker spot. Dillard played in all 12 games at the MIKE linebacker spot in 2007, splitting time with senior Corey McKeon. Dillard started games against Missouri and Oklahoma State and finished the year with 37 tackles, including 22 solo stops. Dillard hade five games with four or more tackles, including a career-high six tackles each against Wake Forest and Ball State. Dillard added five tackles at Missouri and had four tackles against both Kansas and Iowa State. He recorded his lone tackle for loss of the year against Oklahoma State. The 6-1, 245-pound Dillard appeared ready for a breakthrough in 2006, but he suffered a knee injury in the season opener and was lost for the year. Before the injury, Dillard showed great promise against Louisiana Tech, making four tackles, including three solo stops. He received a medical redshirt. Dillard played in 11 games as a true freshman in 2005, including a start against Missouri, and finished with 11 tackles. One of 13 Husker true freshmen to see action, Dillard missed only the matchup with Pittsburgh. He had a pair of solo tackles in his collegiate debut against Maine, including a tackle for loss. tackle for loss in the season opener against Maine. He added a pair of tackles against Wake Forest. He was strong at the close of the year, compiling seven tackles in the final four games. He capped the regular season with a season-high three tackles in the 30-3 win at Colorado, then added two solo stops in the Alamo Bowl win over Michigan. Dillard was one of the nation s top linebacker prospects after earning Oklahoma all-state honors for two consecutive seasons at Jenks High School. Dillard s Career Statistics Defense ( Tackles ) Fum. QB Year G/S UT AT TT TFL Sacks C-R BK PBU PI Hry / * 1/ / Totals 24/ *-Medical redshirt Single-Game Bests Tackles 6, at Wake Forest, vs. Ball State, 2007 Solo Tackles 4 vs. Ball State, 2007 Tackles for Loss 1, vs. Maine, 2005, vs. Oklahoma State, 2007 #97 Kevin Dixon Defensive Tackle Sr. One Letter Sebring, Fla. (Garden City CC) Kevin Dixon saw extensive action in his first season in the Nebraska program, working his way into the regular rotation at defensive tackle. Dixon is back for his senior season, and this spring he will look to make a run for a starting job on a defensive front that returns all four starters. The 6-3, 285-pound Dixon brings an excellent combination of strength and speed to the defensive line. Dixon played in all 12 games in 2007, earning starts against Wake Forest, USC, Ball State and Oklahoma State. Dixon finished the season with 19 tackles, including 11 solo stops and had three tackles for loss. The Florida native made his presence felt in the season opener, making a tackle and intercepting a pass in the win over Nevada. Dixon had two tackles in his start at Wake Forest. He played his best football in a three-game stretch against Iowa State, Missouri and Oklahoma State, accounting for 12 of his 19 tackles. He had a season-high six tackles at Missouri and had three tackles each against ISU and OSU, including a tackle for loss in each game. He had his final tackle for loss against Kansas State, when he also recorded a quarterback hurry. Dixon joined the Nebraska program last summer after a strong performance at Garden City (Kan.) Community College, where he was a teammate of fellow NU defensive lineman Shukree Barfield. Dixon s Career Statistics Defense ( Tackles ) Fum. QB Year G/S UT AT TT TFL Sacks C-R BK PBU PI Hry / Single-Game Highs Tackles 6 at Missouri, 2007 Solo Tackles 4 at Missouri, 2007 Tackles for Loss 1, three times in 2007

27 #41 Thomas Grove Linebacker So. One Letter Arlington, Neb.» 2007 Big 12 Commissioner s Fall Academic Honor Roll Thomas Grove quickly made his mark as a true freshman in the Nebraska program. The walk-on from Arlington reported in August as part of the 105-man roster and earned immediate playing time on Nebraska s special teams. Grove has added about 15 pounds of muscle since his arrival on campus and this spring he will look to make a push for playing time at linebacker. Grove impressed Nebraska coaches during fall camp and was one of 11 true freshmen to see action in Grove appeared on kick coverage in games against Nevada, Wake Forest and Kansas State. The 6-2, 220-pound Grove was a two-way standout at Arlington before deciding to walk on at Nebraska. #28 Eric Hagg Defensive Back So. One Letter Peoria, Ariz. (Ironwood) Eric Hagg is one of several young players in the Nebraska secondary who will look to make a strong push for playing time this spring. Hagg saw limited action as a true freshman in 2007, but now has the opportunity to expand his role with the graduation of six regulars in the defensive backfield. The 6-1, 200-pound Hagg has the athletic ability to compete for playing time at both cornerback and safety. Hagg did not see action in Nebraska s first four games, but ended any chance of redshirt when he first saw action against Iowa State. Hagg went on to play in seven games, both on kick coverage and as a reserve in the secondary. He made a pair of assisted tackles in Nebraska s win over Kansas State. Hagg was among a group of 11 true freshmen to see action last season. He was one of five players from Arizona in NU s 2007 recruiting class. #12 Blake Lawrence Linebacker So. One Letter Shawnee Mission, Kan. (West)» 2007 Big 12 Commissioner s Fall Academic Honor Roll» 2007 National Football Foundation/College Hall of Fame High School Scholar-Athlete Award (1 of 5) Linebacker Blake Lawrence earned valuable playing time as a true freshman in 2007, and this spring he will have the opportunity to compete for much more significant action. The 6-2, 225-pound Lawrence is among a group of young linebackers who will look to fill the shoes of four graduated senior linebackers. Lawrence played in eight games during his first season in Lincoln, serving as a backup behind senior Bo Ruud at the SAM linebacker spot. Lawrence also saw regular action on Nebraska s kickoff coverage unit. Lawrence saw his most extensive action of the season against Texas A&M when Ruud went out with a knee injury. Lawrence made his first career tackle against the Aggies and had his second tackle of the year against Kansas State. A native of Shawnee Mission, Kan., Lawrence was an outstanding two-way performer at Shawnee Mission West NEBR ASK A SPRING FOOTBALL #63 Ben Martin Defensive Tackle So. One Letter Lincoln, Neb. (Southwest) Lincoln native Ben Martin earned playing time on the defensive line last season as a redshirt freshman. This spring the 6-4, 270-pound Martin hopes to use his versatility to put himself in position to see action this fall. Martin has the ability to play both defensive end or defensive tackle. Martin played in seven games in 2007, serving as a backup defensive tackle behind fellow Lincoln Southwest graduate Ty Steinkuhler and Kevin Dixon. Martin finished the year with three tackles, including two stops against Iowa State and an assisted tackle at Kansas. Martin spent his redshirt season on the scout team at defensive end before moving to the interior during spring ball. #33 Matt O Hanlon Safety Sr. Two Letters Bellevue, Neb. (East)» 2007 Second-Team Academic All-Big 12» 2006 First-Team Academic All-Big 12» 2005 Big 12 Commissioner's Fall Honor Roll» Two-Time Big 12 Commissioner's Spring Academic Honor Roll (2005, 2007) Senior Matt O Hanlon enters spring practice hopeful of making a push for playing time in a revamped Nebraska secondary. The Huskers lost six players who saw significant action last fall, leaving the opportunity to returning players to impress Nebraska s first-year coaching staff during spring practice. The 5-11, 195-pound O Hanlon will look to follow in the footsteps of fellow walk-on safeties Blake Tiedtke, Brandon Rigoni and Ben Eisenhart who have made a strong impact over the past three seasons. O Hanlon saw action in 10 games last season, primarily working on the Huskers special teams units. He finished the year with three tackles, including solo stops against Nevada and Iowa State, as well as an assist against Texas. In 2006, O Hanlon played in all 14 games and helped Nebraska feature one of the nation s best kickoff coverage units. He finished the year with eight tackles, including six stops in the first four games. He had a career-high three tackles against Louisiana Tech, and had two tackles against Nicholls State. O Hanlon made his first career unassisted tackle against Colorado. O Hanlon redshirted in He joined the program in January of 2005, after a standout prep career at Bellevue East High School. O Hanlon s Career Statistics Defense ( Tackles ) Fum. QB Year G/S UT AT TT TFL Sacks C-R BK PBU PI Hry Redshirt / / Totals 24/ Single-Game Highs Tackles 3 vs. Louisiana Tech, 2006 Solo Tackles 1 vs. Colorado, 2006, vs. Iowa State,

28 2008 NEBRASKA SPRING FOOTBALL #88 Clayton Sievers Defensive End Sr. Two Letters Elkhorn, Neb.» Two-Time Second-Team Academic All-Big 12 (2005, 2006)» 2004 Big 12 Commissioner s Fall Academic Honor Roll» 2006 Big 12 Commissioner s Spring Academic Honor Roll Senior Clayton Sievers has been a versatile player for Nebraska throughout his Husker career. Sievers began his career on offense, before moving to the defensive side of the ball two seasons ago. He has spent the past two seasons splitting time between defensive end and linebacker. This spring Sievers bid for playing time in the Huskers new defensive system. Sievers played in 11 games in 2007, missing only the Missouri contest, serving primarily as Barry Turner s top backup at open end. He finished the season with seven total tackles, including a season-high three stops against Texas A&M. Sievers made two tackles against Iowa State and added single stops against Kansas State and Nevada, when he also added a hurry. He also served on several Nebraska special teams units. Sievers appeared in nine games in 2006, while serving as the top reserve at SAM linebacker behind Stewart Bradley. Sievers recorded one assisted tackle during NU s win over Texas A&M. He was a part of NU s goal-line defensive unit, and was also a regular on the punt, punt block and PAT/field goal units. The Elkhorn native played in all 12 games as a reserve tight end, including starts against Pittsburgh, Missouri and Oklahoma. He had two receptions for 12 yards in his first career game against Maine, then added single receptions against Wake Forest, Pitt, Iowa State and Oklahoma. His catch against the Sooners was a season-long 11-yard grab. He added one tackle and was a member of NU s kickoff return team. Sievers redshirted in his first season with the Huskers. Sievers Career Statistics Defense ( Tackles ) Fum. QB Year G/S UT AT TT TFL Sacks C-R BK PBU PI Hry Redshirt / / / Totals 32/ Receiving: in 2005; long-11 vs. Nevada Single-Game Highs Tackles 3 vs. Texas A&M, 2007 Solo Tackles 2 vs. Iowa State, 2007 #3 Rickey Thenarse Safety Jr. Two Letters Los Angeles, Calif. (Jordan)» Two-Time Nebraska Special Teams MVP (2006, 2007) Rickey Thenarse has established himself as a fearless special teams performer during his first two seasons in a Husker uniform. The Los Angeles native has been named Nebraska s Special Teams MVP each of the past two seasons, and expects to play a key role in that area again this fall. However, Thenarse s main focus during spring ball will be making a push for a starting safety spot in a secondary that lost six key seniors from last season. Thenarse saw extensive action in 2007, both on special teams and as a backup safety behind Tierre Green and Larry Asante. Thenarse played in all 12 games and made 28 total tackles, including 18 solo stops. Many of his stops came on kick or punt coverage, but Thenarse also used his hard-hitting style to make an impact from his safety spot. He finished the season with four games with three or more tackles. He had four tackles, including three solo stops, and forced a fumble on a kickoff against USC. He added three tackles against Ball State, before making a career-high five tackles each in back-to-back road games at Texas and Kansas late in the season. Thenarse forced his second fumble of the season against the Longhorns. Thenarse was the only true freshman to see action in all 14 games in 2006, and quickly made his presence known as a coverage unit specialist. He finished his freshman year with nine tackles, including five solo stops. He had tackles in six games, including a season-high five against Colorado, with three solo tackles. His game against the Buffs marked his finest performance, and also included a forced fumble. Thenarse added tackles against Nicholls State, Troy, Kansas, Oklahoma State and Oklahoma. He grabbed his first career interception and returned it 25 yards against Kansas State, and he recorded a pass breakup at Iowa State. Thenarse s Career Statistics Defense ( Tackles ) Fum. QB Year G/S UT AT TT TFL Sacks C-R BK PBU PI Hry / / Totals 26/ Single-Game Highs Tackles 5, at Texas, at Kansas, 2007 Solo Tackles 3, three times #23 Latravis Washington Linebacker So. One Letter Bradenton, Fla. (Bayshore)» 2007 Big 12 Commissioner s Fall Academic Honor Roll Linebacker Latravis Washington saw limited action as a true freshman in 2007, playing primarily on special teams. Washington served as a reserve linebacker during his freshman season, but this spring the Florida native will look to expand his role on the Husker defense. The 6-3, 225-pounder hopes to play a key part in replacing four graduated senior linebackers. Washington played in six games during his freshman season, both on kickoff coverage and as a reserve linebacker. He finished the year with two tackles, both coming in Nebraska s win over Kansas State. Washington is the cousin of former Husker standout Fabian Washington. Like his older cousin, Latravis Washington starred at Bayshore High in Bradenton, Fla. 28

29 #22 Anthony West Cornerback So. One Letter San Diego, Calif. (Point Loma) Sophomore Anthony West continued to develop during the 2007 campaign and gained playing time throughout the year. The 6-0, 200-pounder will look to make even bigger gains this spring as he competes for significant playing time in a revamped Husker secondary. West has seen practice time at both cornerback and safety and could play either position in West served as a reserve cornerback throughout the season and also saw time on special teams. His most extensive defensive action came when Nebraska went to five and six defensive backs. West finished the year with six tackles, including four solo stops. He made three tackles at Missouri, before making two solo stops against Texas A&M. Both of his tackles against the Aggies were for losses, resulting in 11 yards of losses, including a nine-yard sack. West added two quarterback hurries against Kansas State and had a tackle against Colorado. West prepared to play in an injury-plagued secondary in 2006, but he ultimately sat out the season as a redshirt. #53 Tyler Wortman Linebacker Sr. One Letter Grand Island, Neb. (Central Catholic)» 2007 First-Team Academic All-Big 12» Three-Time Big 12 Commissioner's Spring Academic Honor Roll (2005, 2006, 2007)» Four-Time Big 12 Commissioner's Fall Academic Honor Roll (2004, 2005, 2006, 2007) After serving in a scout team role throughout the first three years of his Nebraska career, Tyler Wortman made his make during the 2007 season. The 6-3, 235-pound Wortman worked his way into the playing rotation at linebacker in 2007 and will look for an ever bigger role this fall. The door is open for Wortman and other linebackers after four seniors finished their eligibility last season. Wortman played in nine games during his junior season, including each of the last eight contests. Wortman served as a backup behind senior Bo Ruud at the SAM linebacker spot, and saw his most extensive action when Ruud was sidelined for three games late in the year. Wortman finished the year with nine total tackles, including three solo stops. He also had three tackles for loss. Wortman made a pair of tackles against both Texas and Kansas. He had a threeyard tackle for loss at Texas, then had two tackles for loss (7 yards) against the Jayhawks. He capped the year with three tackles at Colorado. Wortman worked on the scout team and provided depth behind a veteran group of linebackers in both 2005 and 2006, but did not see game action. A walk-on athlete from Grand Island, Wortman redshirted in his first season in the program NEBR ASK A SPRING FOOTBALL Other Special Teams Returning Lettermen #82 T.J. O Leary Long Snapper Sr. Two Letters Omaha, Neb. (Millard North/New Mexico St.) T.J. O Leary returns for his senior season in 2008, after handling the long snapping chores for Nebraska each of the past two years. O Leary has performed very well, helping NU s kicking game rank among the Big 12 s best each of the past two years. This fall, O Leary will work with returning starters at place-kicker, punter and holder. O Leary started all 12 games as Nebraska s long snapper last fall. In the punting game, he teamed with Dan Titchener to help Nebraska to a 36.3-yard net punting average. O Leary was flawless in his snapping for PATs and field goals, helping kickers Alex Henery and Adi Kunalic to a perfect season, as they connected on all nine field goals and each of NU s 46 PATs. O Leary also had three tackles on punt coverage. O Leary began 2006 as a backup to four-year starter Lane Kelly, but stepped up after Kelly was injured. O Leary served as the Huskers snapper for punts for the final 10 games of the year, while Kelly returned to handle PAT and field goal snaps late in the season. O Leary helped NU rank 24th in net punting, while the PAT and field goal unit connected on 55-of-56 extra points and 5-of-7 field goals. O Leary was nearly flawless with snapping duties. An Omaha native, O Leary redshirted in 2005 after transferring from New Mexico State. He played in every game for the Aggies in 2004 as a freshman and made three tackles on special teams. O Leary also served as the team s long snapper. #37 Jake Wesch Holder/Place-Kicker Sr. Three Letters North Bend, Neb.» Three-Time Brook Berringer Citizenship Team (2005, 2006, 2007)» 2004 Big 12 Commissioner s Fall Academic Honor Roll Senior Jake Wesch has been an important special teams contributor for Nebraska throughout his career and should continue in that role again in Wesch will continue to battle kickers Alex Henery and Adi Kunalic for place-kicking and kickoff duties, while looking to secure the holding responsibilities for the third consecutive year. He played a key role in the success of Nebraska s 2007 kicking unit. Wesch played in all 12 games as Nebraska s holder last fall. His work was flawless as the Huskers posted the first perfect kicking season in school history. Henery and Kunalic combined to connect on all 46 extra-point tries and each of their combined nine field goals. In 2006, Wesch handled the majority of kickoffs beginning with the Texas game and played in 11 contests overall. He helped NU rank 16th nationally in kickoff coverage, allowing just 17.9 yards per attempt, as opponents started on average just past their own 28-yard line. Wesch also had three tackles, with a pair of stops against Missouri and a tackle at Oklahoma State. The biggest play of Wesch s season came from his arm, not his leg, against Kansas State. Wesch helped pull off a perfectly executed fake field-goal attempt with a 17-yard touchdown strike to tight end Hunter Teafatiller, giving NU a 7-0 first-quarter lead. Wesch earned the starting nod as NU s kickoff specialist midway through the 2005 season. He played in nine of the final 10 games and helped the Huskers rank among the Big 12 leaders in kickoff coverage. He also served as the back-up place-kicker. A walk-on, Wesch redshirted and provided depth at kicker. 29