Nebraska Football: LB Mikai Gbayor’s development promising

Nebraska football has had some positives despite a 0-2 start to the season, especially on the defensive side of the football. Sophomore linebacker Mikai Gbayor continues to get praise from the defensive coaches. The linebacker got additional praise on Thursday.

Gbayor was a Scott Frost recruit, and did not play in either the 2021 or 2022 seasons. This year he has really begun to make a name for himself. Saturday was an example of that. The linebacker recorded six tackles at Colorado. He made his debut against Minnesota in the opener, recording one tackle as well.

His emergence has been a welcome development for the defense. It’s not as though he didn’t have talent, he just has never gotten a fair shot. Gbayor was a 2020 Sports Illustrated All-American candidate. His ability to play has never really been questioned. It’s more so been about getting the opportunities.

Tony White on Mikai Gbayor:

"When you watched him on special teams against Minnesota, and the things he was putting on the grass, coach Rhule was like, 'Hey, this guy needs to play.'"

🔗:https://t.co/OIwxH8LN7u

L5 Gbayor, R4 Javin Wright, L3 Barret Liebentritt, R5 Tommi Hill⤵️ pic.twitter.com/4Q541f9ERp

— Steve Marik (@Steve_Marik) September 14, 2023

Nebraska football coaches are pleased

Nebraska football defensive coordinator Tony White is thrilled with the way Gbayor has been playing. He told us much to assembled media on Thursday.

When you look at the way Gbayor plays, is easy to see why the coaching staff is really impressed with him. He has good instincts, and he immediately attacks the ball carrier. His closing speed on tackles is extremely impressive. This allows him to be involved in almost every play.

His emergence is an important development as well. Luke Reimer and Nick Henrich are both senior linebackers. Someone is going to have to step up next year. Getting Gbayor meaningful reps right now is important for the development of the linebacker position in the future. His aggressiveness fits well with what this defensive scheme is trying to do.

Nebraska football will need all the defensive playmakers on Saturday, as they look to stop a two-game losing streak. Gbayor is now beginning to find himself in that playmaking conversation. Here’s to hoping he keeps it up.