Nebraska Football: Gabe Ervin encouraged by offensive line

Nebraska football running back Gabe Ervin is looking to have a bounce-back season in 2023.  Earlier this spring, he indicated that he is excited about the progress of the offensive line. A productive offensive line may help him have season he’s looking for.

Ervin rushed for 94 yards on 20 carries last season. He did not see the field a ton, but that appears to be changing for 2023. Health was an issue for him last season, and he said earlier in the spring that he is ready to go.

He will look to help a Nebraska rushing attack that ranked 10^th in the Big Ten with 123.3 yards per game. Anthony Grant was the main producer in the rushing attack last season, as he carried the ball 218 times for 963 yards and six touchdowns. Grant and the rest of the rushing attack were able to produce, despite struggles from the line.

With that being said, Ervin feels very good about where the offensive line is headed. This is a big year for the unit, after they struggled last season. To be fair, they did a little bit better in run blocking than they did in pass protection. Even still, their play left a lot to be desired. Nevertheless, Ervin feels good about where the unit is at, as transcribed by On3.com’s Justin Rudolph.

“They’ve (been) growing from day one; from spring ball to now. That offensive line, coach Raila does a great job finding the details for those guys each and every day on what they need to work on,” said Ervin. “And we’re just going to take off, man. I’m excited, I’m excited for this run game, (and) even this pass game. I’m excited to block for the ball (carrier) and run the ball. We’re going to be a good team going (into the) fall.”

Success in the running game will help Nebraska football

It’s encouraging that Ervin feels very confident about the unit as they headed to the fall. This is going to be a big year for the offensive line and running game to boot. Confident running attacks are essential in the Big Ten Conference. Solid blocking is even more crucial in making sure that happens.

Here’s to hoping the line can carry over their progress from the spring, and apply it in the fall.