Nebraska is known for a great defense. All-Americans dot the depth chart on each level. In the secondary, it all starts with Alfonzo Dennard (5-foot-10, 205 pounds, Senior). Dennard is a pure lock-down corner. His athleticism and strength make him the premiere defensive back in the Big 10 Conference. While Dennard is dealing with a lingering leg muscle pull, that is allowing more depth to develop in early-season practices. The leadership that Dennard can pass on to the other members of the secondary will only help the development of the defense.
Ciante Evans (5-11, 185, So.) has experience from 2010 that puts him in front of the chase for the other starting cornerback spot. Andrew Green (6-0, 190, So.) has also moved into the competition for playing time since Dennard's injury. Antonio Bell (6-2, 200, Jr.) has also performed well from practice reports. Senior Lance Thorell (6-1, 200) and sophomore Dijon Washington (6-0, 190) will also add depth.
The safeties are in a strong competition for playing time. Austin Cassidy (6-1, 210, Sr.) provides solid leadership, although there are questions about his speed in the secondary. P. J. Smith (6-2, 210, Jr.) and Courtney Osborne (6-3, 200, Jr.) both have a great deal of game experience that will put them at the front of the list to be on the field for the Blackshirts. Two other players deserve a mention. Junior Justin Blatchford (6-1, 200, Jr.) has been solid to add depth at safety, while freshman Corey Cooper (6-1, 210) was known for great play last year as a redshirt on the scout team.
The secondary has been known for physical play. New coach Corey Raymond is focusing on technique to change the style of play for the defensive backs in the Big 10. That attention to detail will help a good group shine when conference play begins. Overall, the secondary will be a bright spot for the Nebraska football team in 2011. Talent and depth will keep the secondary as one of the top units in the Big 10 Conference this season. Thanks for reading, the next post will be my overall season prediction for Nebraska in 2011. Email me with your thoughts at jimdolezal@mail.com.
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