The Blackshirts. That is all one has to say to a Nebraska football fan and they think defense. Like the Masters golf tournament, this is a tradition unlike any other. The pride that Husker players, coaches, and fans take in the defense is legendary. In 2011 the defense starts the season somewhat ahead of the offense. The talent is there on every level, the coaching expertise is unquestionable. Now it is time to play. Let's start the defensive preview series by breaking down the defensive line.
Up front the Blackshirts have a star in defensive tackle Jared Crick (6-feet-6, 285 pounds, Senior). Crick is a powerhouse and a warrior. His combination of strength with speed creates havoc for opposing offenses. Crick came on the scene as a sophomore and has been an impact player since he received his first playing time. Jared has the talent to also move outside at times to play on the defensive end which can create problems for the opponents offensive line. He played in high school for the Cozad Haymakers and may get a haymaker or two in on an offensive lineman in a game.
Next to Crick is Baker Steinkuhler (6-6, 290, Jr.). Baker has been in the trenches before and now appears ready to step up and take his game to another level. His continued solid play has allowed Nebraska to develop depth in players like Terrence Moore (6-3, 290, Sr.) and Thaddeus Randle (6-1, 300, So.). A pair of redshirt freshmen also will be in the mix up front. Look for Chase Rome (6-3, 295) and Jay Guy (6-1, 295) to compete for playing time and to add depth at defensive tackle.
The defensive end spots are more wide open at this time. One side is led by Cameron Meredith (6-4, 260, Jr.). Barring something unexpected, Meredith will start the opener at one defensive end position. He has shown flexibility to pass rush off the end and yet keep containment on plays that go outside on the flanks of the defense. Meredith can be a star player in 2011. On the other side several players are battling to start and contribute. Jason Ankrah (6-4, 265, So.) showed flashes last season and will have an opportunity to be on the field in 2011. Eric Martin (6-2, 260, Jr.) is becoming a pass rushing specialist after moving last season from the linebacker position. Martin will also continue to play a key role on special teams covering kickoffs and punts. Josh Williams (6-4, 260, Jr.) is in the hunt to play a great deal at defensive end as is Joseph Carter (6-5, 250, Jr.) and Kevin Thomsen (6-2, 245, Sr.) who played a key role in late season action for the Big Red in 2010.
The cupboard is not bare along the defensive front. Nebraska has star talent on the line. Depth has been developed where the Huskers should have a key advantage against almost any team in the country. This will be a fun group to watch on game days that will lead the Big Red to a lot of victories in 2011. As always thanks for reading, and let me know what your thoughts are. Next time I will take a deep look at the Husker linebacker corps.
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