If you follow Nebraska football, then you probably have an opinion on who should get a Blackshirt on defense. In fact, you probably have opinions on who is deserving of a single digit number. So, if I said I was going to create a list like someone’s Top 40 Huskers for 24 or maybe 24 in ’24 Most Indispensable Huskers, you’d be like … what, another list?
But if I said, when it’s third and five, what eight Blackshirts will have the biggest impact on the defense trotting to the sideline and the loudspeaker stating, “FOURTH DOWN!”
Would that pique your interest?
If so, then here are my “Blackshirts Third and Five” players.
The Third
Tye Robinson, Nash Hutmacher, James Williams
Tye Robinson came back for a sixth year even though there was a good chance he would have been drafted. That says a ton about this staff and team and where Robinson thinks they can go. While Robinson’s stats weren’t outstanding, last season was his best statistically. He led the team in quarterback hurries with 11. Some of those hurries need to become sacks. Always strong in run defense, he’ll be a huge piece of the puzzle again this year.
Nash Hutmacher was one of those players that flourished with a new staff. The potential was always there, but Coach Knighton pushed Hutmacher into a new realm. Now, after an offseason that saw the Polar Bear wrestling, Hutmacher has retooled himself physically. With 8 tackles for a loss and 4.5 sacks last year, Hutmacher’s increased footspeed and powerful hand work will give offensive lines all they want this season.
The natural pick here should be Jamari Butler. And in fact, I’ll go ahead and say Butler will be the sack leader for the Blackshirts with double digit numbers. But I’ve selected James Williams as the third most important defensive lineman this season. Butler is a dude, but Williams brings another element to the defense with his length and speed. After a year of winter conditioning and having a better understanding of what Knighton wants from him, Williams will show he is more than just an edge rusher. There will come a point this year when a momentum swing is needed, and Williams will be the guy that makes those big plays.
The Five
Linebacker
John Bullock
When the Nebraska defense in the 90’s decided they needed more speed, good things happened. Bullock moved from safety to linebacker last year because he plays with speed and physical toughness. Last year he had 50 tackles, 2 ½ tackles for loss, 1 ½ sacks and a forced fumble, and that was while learning the position. Now in his sixth year, and comfortable in the position, he’ll play even faster due to no longer having to think about what he is doing. Many have expressed concern with the loss of Reimer and Henrich, but with Bullock leading a talented group, there will be no drop off from the linebackers.
Cornerbacks
Tommy Hill, Ceyair Wright, Malcom Hartzog
Tommy Hill has had an up and down career at Nebraska. Bouncing between cornerback and wide receiver, he finally came into his own last season after Tony White moved him back to corner. There are some questions of how Hill will respond under new coach John Butler, but Hill has found his confidence and has matured. Hill had 9 pass break ups and 4 interceptions last season and new coaching may take him to the next level. Butler is known for getting the best out of his players.
I wanted to list Blye Hill here, but with his injury this spring, there are too many questions. New addition Ceyair Wright from USC comes in with more cornerback experience than anyone else in the secondary room. Wright played in 23 games while at USC. Having never played for Cooper, the transition to Bulter may be easier for him than anyone else. Nebraska wouldn’t have brought Wright in if they didn’t think he could contribute right away. If Wright starts fall camp in shape and brings the right attitude, he could be a difference maker.
Hartzog starts his third year at Nebraska. He has played both corner and safety. Evan Cooper stated in an interview earlier this year that he should apologize to Malcom for bouncing him around last season. Hartzog was slated to play safety until the injury to Blye Hill. So, while it’s still up in the air as to where Hartzog will play, I’ll say this, Hartzog is the next guy to make my list regardless of which position he plays. Nebraska’s current staff likes Hartzog at safety, but John Butler may see it differently, Butler may bring the best out in Hartzog at corner. Either way, Hartzog will see a ton of playing time and he’s one of those guys who often finds the ball in his hands.
Venom Back
Isaac Gifford
For me, Isaac Gifford is the most important Nebraska player this year. I once wrote that Tony White’s scheme demands more of Gifford than just being a Rover. So, in honor of the Rattlesnake Boys, I think Gifford should be called the Venom-back. Like a rattlesnake, Gifford is dangerous. You’re aware of his presence but you never know where and when he might strike, and if he does, chances are he’ll have a paralyzing effect. I think that describes Gifford perfectly. He was the leading tackler last season with 86 tackles, 8 pass breakups, and 6.5 tackles for loss. I’ll go ahead and pencil Gifford in again this year as the leading tackler and the guy that drives the Blackshirts.
Overall Outlook
The players listed must shut down offenses and get off the field in third and five situations. Why third and five? Because it’s a play where the defense must be ready for anything. Quick sideline outs, swing passes, draws, quarterback scrambles, and the surprise deep throw. Defensively, it’s a play where pressure wins. You can’t stand still or play on your heels. The guys I’ve listed all play on their toes.
Tony White returns for his second year as defensive coordinator after leading Nebraska to its best statistical season since joining the Big 10 twelve years ago. White wasn’t happy with last year’s performance, so look for him to turn the heat up another notch this year.
Rob Dvoracek returns as linebacker coach and brings back enough experienced talent and young new talent for me to say, this room will be better than last year.
Terrance Knighton as defensive line coach brings back a Death Row crew that has been mentioned as potentially one of the best defensive lines in the country. It may be true. With the progress made in the room, depth shouldn’t be an issue.
Much has been made of Evan Cooper being replaced by John Butler as secondary coach. In my opinion, from the coaching side, Butler is an upgrade. While several guys loved Cooper, I think the guys in this room will quickly identify what they have in Butler. Look for them to buy in and have a strong season.
I must believe Tony White had a lot to do with the addition of John Butler. While Butler will be learning the intricacies of White’s 3-3-5, White will take advantage of Butler’s vast experience. It’s a good marriage. The Blackshirts will take another big step forward and be one of the top defenses in the country.
