Huskers Face a Challenge in Spartans’ Walker

Tackling must improve against nation’s leading running back, defensive coordinator Erik Chinander says

The Huskers need to improve in the tackling department this week against Michigan State running back Kenneth Walker III, defensive coordinator Erik Chinander said after Tuesday's Nebraska football practice.

Walker leads the nation in rushing yards and averages more than eight yards per carry.

“He’s going to challenge your leverage. ... There haven’t been a lot of single tackles on this guy, so a lot of hats need to get to the football,” Chinander said.

Kenneth Walker III on the run against Miami.Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

One more hat in the tackling mix in East Lansing could be that of Casey Rogers. Defensive line coach Tony Tuioti said the fourth-year sophomore is back to 90 to 95 percent of full health and indicated he may get his first snaps of the season against the Spartans. Rogers suited up Saturday in Norman but did not play.

Running backs coach Ryan Held confirmed that true freshman Gabe Ervin Jr. will miss the rest of the season after undergoing knee surgery Tuesday. Ervin suffered a patellar tendon injury in the second half Saturday against Oklahoma.

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