The 2021 Husker defense was a pleasant surprise. That side of the ball played larger than the sum of its parts, especially considering there was no alpha pass rusher. All season long, the defense kept Nebraska within striking distance, only to have the offense commit penalties, turnovers, or both and come up short.
Returning Production
Tackles: Luke Reimer (108), Nick Henrich (99)
Sacks: Garrett Nelson (5)
Interceptions: Luke Reimer (1)
Forced Fumbles: Luke Reimer (3)
Pass Breakups: Luke Reimer (6), Quinton Newsome (4)
Returning DL starts: Not many. Ty Robinson (4)
Okay, I’m seeing a pattern when it comes to names that stand out.