Nebraska quarterback Taylor Martinez is questionable for his team’s Big Ten opener against Illinois on Saturday due to a nagging turf toe injury, ESPN reported on Monday.
The injury caused the senior to miss the Huskers’ last game against South Dakota State, which snapped his string of 32-straight starts dating back to his freshman season. He didn’t practice during Nebraska’s bye week and, as of now, his toe is still bothering him to the point where there’s a chance he may not play against the Illini.
Redshirt freshman Tommy Armstrong and senior Ron Kellogg III filled in nicely for Martinez last week. The Huskers put up more than 300 yards rushing and 300 passing for the first time in school history. Armstrong started the game and completed 12 of 15 throws for 169 yards while Kellogg completed 8 of 9 for 136 yards.
While it’s nice to have good backups, there’s no substituting for Martinez’ experience and athleticism. I’d bet on him being ready to play against the Illini.