Not Running on Empty

Years ago there was a song that Jackson Browne put out titled "Running on Empty." Yes I know I am showing my age, but this is an appropriate description for the Nebraska running backs in 2011. The Huskers have two proven leaders at running back this season and three untested freshman that must compete hard for the Big Red to be at the front of the Big 10 Conference race this season.

Nebraska fans know about Rex Burkhead (5-11, 210, Jr.). The heart and soul of the Husker running game, Burkhead has the ability to do it all. He has solid leadership skills. Burkhead is a tough inside runner that also catches the ball well. While Rex has not shown a great deal of breakaway speed, he gets the key yards and protects the football. Burkhead is a focal point of the offense. Even with his smaller size, he handles contact and can punish defenders. In 2010 he showed his versatility by also giving the Big Red flexibility by being able to shine as a quarterback in the Wildcat formation. "Superman" as he is known in his hometown of Plano, Texas has the intangibles to lead an otherwise young group of I-backs.

Three freshmen will battle for time at the I-back spot with Burkhead. Braylon Heard (5-11, 180) is a home-run hitter on the football field. He possesses the speed and quickness to go the length of the field every time he touches the ball. Aaron Green (5-11, 190) is the most hyped freshman to come to Nebraska for the 2011 season. He will definitely be a factor in the chase for playing time in the backfield. Ameer Abdullah (5-9, 180) may be the smallest of the new backs, but reports are that he performed well this summer and has been impressive in early-season drills. The Alabama product was a great pick up late in the recruiting season. These three young players may also see time in the return game.

A couple of veterans must also be mentioned. Fullback Tyler Legate (5-10, 235, Sr.) is a tough throwback Nebraska fullback that is a fan favorite. Tyler is solid as a lead blocker and can catch the ball out of the backfield. Sophomore C. J. Zimmerer (6-0, 235) will provide depth at the fullback spot. Senior I-back Austin Jones (5-10, 210)  has stood out in preseason practices according to Coach Bo Pelini and he may surprise fans who have seen Jones only as a backup the last few seasons.

The Nebraska running game may look different this year than in the past. Fans will have to learn some new names and some new numbers, but the talent remains at a very high level. Leadership from veterans can really help this group make the Huskers a solid offense in 2011. This group will not run out of gas when they hit the accelerator in 2011.

The defensive preview is coming next. I will look at the defensive line, linebackers and secondary in separate posts this week. One week from today will be my season preview blog and then read my weekly look at each Nebraska opponent. You can always e-mail me at jimdolezal@mail.com with your thoughts. Thanks for reading Going Deep with Doze.