Nebraska Football to Showcase 'Unique' Kicking Situation Against UTEP
Unconventional Approach to Special Teams Role
Lincoln, Neb. - The Nebraska Cornhuskers will adopt a distinctive strategy for their kicking duties when they face off against the UTEP Miners on Saturday.
Key Personnel Involved
- Brett Maher: Veteran NFL kicker handling field goals and extra points
- Timmy Bleekrode: Redshirt freshman tasked with kickoffs
Rationale Behind the Split Responsibilities
The Cornhuskers have opted for this unusual arrangement due to Maher's age (33) and Bleekrode's strong leg for kickoffs.
Maher, who spent seven seasons in the NFL, provides experience and accuracy for field goal attempts.
Bleekrode, on the other hand, possesses the leg strength to consistently drive kickoffs into the end zone for touchbacks.
Impact on Nebraska's Special Teams
This unconventional approach could have several implications for Nebraska's special teams:
- Increased field goal efficiency: Maher's experience and accuracy should boost the Cornhuskers' field goal conversion rate.
- Improved kickoff coverage: Bleekrode's powerful kickoffs will force UTEP to start their drives from deeper in their own territory.
- Potential for trick plays: The use of two different kickers opens up possibilities for creative and unexpected plays on special teams.
Nebraska head coach Scott Frost expressed confidence in both players and believes this unique strategy can give his team an edge in the kicking game.
The Cornhuskers and Miners will square off at Memorial Stadium on Saturday, September 9, at 6:30 p.m. CT.
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