Nebraska’s season opener against Southern Miss wasn’t projected to be an easy game by any stretch. Now, things just got a little tougher for the Cornhuskers.
Starting running back Rex Burkhead has a sprained MCL and will not return to the game, ESPN announced during the broadcast. Burkhead had three carries for 68 yards and a touchdown before sustaining the injury.
Heading into halftime, coach Bo Pelini said the injury was “nothing long term.”
Burkhead was a workhorse for the Cornhuskers last season and figured to be an equally vital part of the offense in 2012. Quarterback Taylor Martinez looks improved, but there’s little substitute for the experience and toughness Burkhead brings to that Nebraska backfield.
Nebraska leads USM 21-14 late in the second quarter, but the Golden Eagles are driving.