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Huskers’ Running Backs Working on the Details

Coach E.J. Barthel hopes spring ‘development phase’ builds ‘great foundation’ for fall camp

Joe Hudson

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Contents

  1. Practice
  2. Presser
  3. More info

Nebraska head football coach Matt Rhule has spoken highly of the Huskers' stable of running backs, but position coach E.J. Barthel isn't ready to hop aboard the hype train just yet.

"I know we have some guys with some playing experience, but I think we're still really in the development phase right now," Barthel said after Tuesday's practice, the Huskers' eighth of spring ball. "...We are going to dissect the whole process with these guys. It starts with eye development, understanding the run game, understanding the blocking schemes and being really detailed."

"The reality is, mentally, I wouldn't say they are all experienced running backs as far as playing full seasons. Ajay (Allen) played a little bit last year, Gabe (Ervin) coming back from an injury, Rahmir (Johnson) did not see a lot of action last year, AG (Anthony Grant), that is really the first time in his career that he got that many reps and that many carries. ... I am treating them as if they are young players. We are starting from the bottom and building a foundation. That is the key. I want to make sure we get through spring and head into camp with a great foundation."

A portion of Tuesday's practice was open to the media. Also speaking afterward were special teams coordinator Ed Foley, punter Brian Buschini, placekicker Timmy Bleekrode and linebacker Jimari Butler. 

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Practice

Presser

More info

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Joe Hudson
JOE HUDSON

Joe Hudson has operated a Husker-related website since 1995 and joined forces with David Max to form HuskerPedia (later renamed HuskerMax) in 1999. It began as a hobby during his 35 years as a newspaper editor and reporter, a career that included stints at the Lincoln Star, Omaha World-Herald, Philadelphia Inquirer and Denver Post. In Denver, Joe was chief of the copy desk during his final 16 years at the Post. He is proud to have been involved in Pulitzer Prize-winning projects in both Philadelphia and Denver. Joe has been a Nebraska football fan since the mid-1960s during his childhood in Omaha. He earned his bachelor of arts degree in journalism and economics at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1976. He resides a few freeway exits north of Colorado Springs and enjoys bicycling and walking his dogs in his spare time. You can reach him at joeroyhud@outlook.com.

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