There is an X-factor in Nebraska football RB competition

Running back is one of the position groups that Nebraska football fans will be watching closely this spring in large part because there is no sure-fire starter.

Last season, it was clear that Emmett Johnson was the guy. There were questions about the depth behind him, but not about who RB1 was going to be.

This season, it feels like the exact opposite. There are concerns about depth. However, the bigger worry is how Nebraska football is going to replace the Big Ten’s leading rusher.

Nebraska probably won’t be that fortunate again. Johnson was an All-American. But that doesn’t mean that the running back room can’t be productive or even a strength.

Mekhi Nelson should have been a true freshman last season. He re-classified, starting his college career early, so his ranking would be much higher if he spent 2024 as a high school senior.

Mozee and Nelson combined for 216 yards in the bowl game. They just need to a chance to play, as Matt Rhule said on Thursday when he held a pre-spring press conference.

Another Nebraska RB could be in the mix

Yet, another name was mentioned by Dana Holgorsen, the Nebraska offensive coordinator. That was Jamal Rule, the three-star true freshman. He is ranked in the 800s as a high school recruit. So was Emmett. Yet, Holgorsen said Rule, “Probably runs better them than all.’

So keep an eye on the true freshman. The running back room is crowded. It’s also wide open, which could leave the door open for an impressive freshman.

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