The countdown to Nebraska’s season opener on August 31 against the University of Texas at El Paso Miners is down to just 44 days, bringing Huskers sophomore defensive lineman Riley Von Poppel in today’s player spotlight.
The 6-foot-5, 275-pound Van Poppel was a frequent sight on the field last season in his first year with the program, playing in each of the Huskers’ last 11 games. On the season, the Argyle, Texas native recorded five tackles, one tackle for loss, and half a sack.
An understudy to nose tackle Nash Hutmacher, Van Poppel is expected to once again have a rotational role for the Huskers in 2024. He’ll get frequent playing time and could take a big step forward from his freshman season if all progresses well.
Following this fall, Van Poppel would be in line to become the Huskers starting defensive tackle as Nash Hutmacher is expected to exhaust his eligibility this fall.
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