Nebraska football coach Matt Rhule met with the media on Thursday afternoon. He was asked about the importance of special teams for the remainder of the season.
“Especially in games like this week, where weather could be a factor, you want to play great on the special teams,” he said. “Purdue has dynamic kickoff and punt return games. They blocked a field goal against Iowa in a crucial time, they’re excellent on special teams. We’ve made some good plays on special teams, pinning the ball down, Tommi (Hill) with the kickoff return last week.”
He also made it clear that Huskers have left big play opportunities on the field this season.
“We’re also missing some opportunities. We had a punt block last week, we missed it. We’re just going to continue to try and get better at it…Guys fill in the void as we have injuries. I think special teams are vital. They’ll be really vital this week. We’re down our starting kick returner. We’re down our starting punt returner. Those are big things, so other guys have to step up.”
The Huskers are 30th in the nation in kick returns, with 12 returns for an average of 23.58 yards. The team has taken a step back regarding punt returns, as they stand at 113th in the county for an average of 3.33 yards per return.
Contact/Follow us @CornhuskersWire on Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Nebraska news, notes, and opinions.