Husker RB coach E.J. Barthel says not every run needs to be a ‘home run’
LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – The ideal running back would be legendary multi-sport athlete Bo Jackson, Husker offensive coordinator Marcus Satterfield said Thursday.
Unfortunately, that isn’t the reality for most. But Nebraska’s room of running backs – which includes familiar faces like Anthony Grant and Gabe Ervin Jr. – is multi-talented, Satterfield said.
“We don’t want to be one of those teams that have five running backs that get two carries a game,” he said. “We want some guys that have a role in the offense.”
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E.J. Barthel, who leads Nebraska’s running backs, said the squad is focusing on the details, including physicality, ball security and pass protection.
“We need to learn how to earn it, right?” he said. “We got to earn our way and earn our respect here, and it starts with running the ball.”
Barthel also wants to implement the idea that runs can be “messy.” He said it’s OK to have a 5-yard carry, even if it isn’t “pretty.”
“Every run is not going to be a home run,” Barthel said.
Ervin, who is in his third year with the Huskers, said mistakes can help improve a running back’s game.
“Like coach Rhule said, you know, the goal is to make mistakes so the next time next practice you can, you know, improve on it,” he said.
Nebraska has eight running backs on its roster, but Barthel wouldn’t say who would be starting in the Huskers’ first game on Aug. 31.
“Right now, we’re really going to see who’s gonna represent the brand of football that we want to put out there against Minnesota,” he said.
Good stuff from #Husker RB Gabe Ervin Jr. (@gabe_ervin) on running backs coach EJ Barthel (@CoachEJbarthel) and the impact he’s had.
“He’s probably the best coach I’ve had in college…” @Channel8ABC pic.twitter.com/RLXFKXM2MI
— Lauren Michelson (@LaurenMichelson) August 3, 2023
