Hurrdat Sports Radio host Ravi Lulla and Damon Benning break down the action-packed weekend ahead for Nebraska fans, covering everything from high school football playoffs to the strategy and expectations for Nebraska football’s next game.
Nebraska’s Secondary Prepares for UCLA
Lulla and Benning didn’t hesitate to dive into Nebraska’s secondary adjustments. With injuries affecting key players, like Malcolm Hartzog and Tommi Hill, Coach Matt Rhule is turning to newer faces like Jeremiah Charles, Larry Tarver Jr. and Donovan Jones. “We’re going to be able to see pretty quickly some of the development of those guys,” Benning observes, hinting that Nebraska’s younger players might be getting tested this week against the pass-heavy strategies of UCLA.
As Benning points out, Nebraska is building a team where “next man up” is more than a mantra — it’s essential. Lulla suggests that even with strong depth, having more experienced players on the field is often a safer bet, especially in high-stakes games like the one against UCLA.
Strategic Development in High School Football
Lulla and Benning welcome Omaha Central’s head football coach, Terrence Mackey, to the show ahead of the high school football state playoffs. Mackey details his journey in coaching and the strong community values driving his program. For Mackey, who led Central through a tough early season to reach the state playoffs, team focus is critical on a team with plenty of young talent in key positions. “We want to be in it to win it,” he says, emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus through the postseason, despite outside interest in players from major programs.
The Hype Around Nebraska’s Recruiting Weekend
Switching gears back to Nebraska recruiting, they discuss the Huskers’ big recruiting weekend, particularly around four-star tight end Chase Loftin from Millard South. Nebraska’s consistency in keeping communication lines open with Loftin, even after his summer commitment elsewhere, has put them in a strong position to secure him. Benning credits Nebraska’s coaching staff for its ability to learn from past recruitment outcomes, a strategy proving advantageous as they edge closer to potentially flipping Loftin.
The Makings of Grimy, Physical Football
Looking ahead to the matchup against UCLA, Benning and Lulla anticipate a gritty game, fitting Nebraska’s evolving identity under Coach Rhule. Benning predicts that Nebraska might throw more on early downs to soften UCLA’s defensive front, which ranks well in stopping the run. With a strong defensive nose and capable linebackers, UCLA could force Nebraska to lean on their passing game. Lulla notes that Coach Rhule’s preference for a “grimy football” approach could play well into this type of matchup, a style Cornhusker fans have started to embrace.
Managing Expectations and Future Prospects
With both Benning and Lulla agreeing on the complexities of Nebraska’s progress this season, the consensus was clear: Nebraska’s recent games, regardless of outcome, showcase a team evolving in the right direction. Benning adds that Coach Rhule’s approach to roster management — prioritizing development and long-term success over immediate wins — provides a balanced perspective. This philosophy might mean strategic redshirting for players with multi-year potential, ensuring sustained growth for the program.
