The Huskers completed the first week of fall camp today after a full pads practice at Hawks Championship Center. The practice was not open for the media to observe, but Defensive Coordinator Mark Banker and a couple of defensive players were available to the media at the conclusion of practice.
Defensive line improvement
Banker said earlier in the week, when the coaches were installing zone pressures for the defensive line, that over a span of 48 snaps, there were only two defensive linemen that went the wrong way. He also noted that this was not at full speed, but it is encouraging when dealing with an inexperienced defensive line.
Banker also said if you are going to have a position where guys are young, the defensive line is the place you want it because of the linebackers and secondary behind them.
The new Newby
Marcus Newby has come into the 2016 fall camp much lighter than before, and he said that has helped tremendously with his confidence.
"I didn't feel too good in the spring and last fall camp," Newby said. "That was my big goal this offseason was to come out, work hard, just run, do extra stuff in the weight room, do extra stuff on the field so I can be lighter on my feet. I lost 10 pounds in two months so I feel a lot better."
Linebacker's coach Trent Bray said with Newby in prime shape, he could be a valuable asset to the Huskers linebacker corps.
"He felt, we felt, that at around 230 (lbs.) for him he's explosive, he can run," Bray said. "You just watch him move and it's night and day from last year and so it's really healthy for him."
Injury update
Michael Rose-Ivey did not practice again Thursday because of an issue with his knee, but Banker said he thinks it was not anything major and that it was just a little tweak.
Charles Jackson was also sidelined with an injury, but Banker is optimistic about his return.
"I think historically he's had some leg issues and things like that," Banker said. "I think this one is just a little bit of a sprain and that type of thing. He'll be alright."
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