Heinrich Haarberg running the football against Wisconsin. Photo Credit: Nebraska Athletics
Nebraska takes the stage at Big Ten Media Days next Tuesday. Following that, it’s go-time.
Here are three bold predictions ahead of fall camp:
Haarberg flourishes as a TE
The roars of Heinrich Haarberg moving to tight end have finally been put to rest. The speed, heart and strength are there for the converted quarterback to become quite the vertical threat for Dylan Raiola. But the main question remains: Can Haarberg be an effective blocker?
There were glimpses of the 6-foot-5 senior blocking against Boston College in the Pinstripe Bowl, yet it was primarily from the slot. Once Haarberg hits the line of scrimmage, his effectiveness will show. One thing that has been noticed during his Husker tenure is his effort, and that’s 90% of blocking.
With Haarberg’s 11.10-second 100-meter dash speed, size and physicality, don’t be surprised if he earns Big Ten accolades. A Tyler Warren-type season might be a stretch, but the intangibles are there.
Nwaneri plays a key role on the D-line
The former five-star-plus recruit and Missouri transfer has as high of a ceiling as any Blackshirt, yet is Williams Nwaneri ready? The 6-foot-7, 255-pound defensive lineman has a golden opportunity with a young D-line room to become one of the main contributors in the trenches.
Will new defensive line coach Terry Bradden unlock Nwaneri’s capability? Nebraska paid the coveted transfer a chunk of NIL for a reason.
Johnson puts up 1,200-plus yards from scrimmage
With an unproven running back room, it will be the Emmett Johnson show. Even if Kwinten Ives, Mekhi Nelson or one of the true freshmen steps up, Johnson will be the Huskers’ featured back.
Johnson rushed for 314 of his 598 yards on the ground last season in the final four games under offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen. He also added 171 of his 286 receiving yards during that stretch.
With that ratio, 1,200-plus yards from Johnson seems within reach, but his consistency will be paramount. Holgorsen was key in retaining the junior running back, and he likes his versatility. The only concern is if a significant workload takes a toll on Johnson’s wear and tear.
Bobby Schneider is a sports journalist who analyzes Nebraska football and baseball. Follow him on X @bschneider33 for more coverage.