Nebraska running back Rex Burkhead has already missed one game this season due to a sprained MCL. Most likely, he will miss at least one more.
On Thursday, coach Bo Pelini said that Burkhead was doubtful for this Saturday’s game in Lincoln against Arkansas State. The concern, Pelini explained, was bringing his star running back before he was ready.
“I would say right now he’s doubtful,” Pelini said. “I want to make sure he’s absolutely 100 percent before put him back there. But you know, he’s camping at the bit to get out there. We’ll just see how the next 48 hours play out.”
The senior back suffered the knee injury in Week 1 during a win against Southern Miss.
The Cornhuskers have had no problem running the ball without Burkhead. In a 36-30 loss to UCLA, Nebraska rushed for 260 yards with both Ameer Abdullah and quarterback Taylor Martinez eclipsing 100 yards in the game. If Burkhead misses another game -- heck, even another one against Idaho State -- it’s no big deal. The concern is the Cornhuskers defense and Arkansas State has been averaging almost 600 yards a game through the first two weeks.
(Hat tip: the Journal-Star)