So far, two key things are happening in the game:
1) UCLA is proceeding almost exactly as expected.
2) We are getting exactly the performance we require from T.J. Lateef, while Emmett Johnson remains in beast mode.
I thought we would be able to contain UCLA signal-caller Nico Iamaleava through the air — and at the break, he has only 64 yards passing. I also thought he would hurt us with his legs; he has 10 carries for 71 yards. Would you believe me if I told you that is actually under his sack-adjusted yards per carry? He averaged 8 yards per carry coming into this game.
On the Huskers’ side, I expected Emmett Johnson to carry the load, with not a heavy workload for Lateef. The hope was for Lateef to operate a mistake-free short passing game and use his legs occasionally to move the chains.
So far, Emmett leads all Nebraska rushers and receivers with 114 total yards. T.J. Lateef’s short passing game is on fire — 6-of-6 for 119 yards and 2 touchdowns. Of those receiving yards, 90 came after the catch, with Johnson and Dane Key breaking two huge plays.
T.J. has also contributed on the ground with 2 carries for 21 yards, effectively moving the chains. Most importantly, he’s been mistake-free — zero turnovers and nothing dangerous thrown.
I love it when a plan comes together.
Now, the big question: can the Huskers put two strong halves together? That’s been a challenge against teams not named Akron or Houston Christian University (HCU). Tonight seems like the perfect place to start.
https://www.cornnation.com/football/88425/huskers-halftime-recap-and-second-half-game-thread-nebraska-21-ucla-7