Spring practice is supposed to answer questions. In Nebraska, it keeps asking the same one. Matt Rhule has built genuine momentum in Lincoln, better recruiting, a deeper roster, and a quarterback room that actually excites people. But one scrimmage this month exposed a crack that won’t stop widening. The offensive line can’t run block. And the people sounding the alarm say it’s shown up nearly every single practice.
Wilson Dittman Sports flagged the issue on March 15. Nebraska’s ground game stalled completely in a recent scrimmage despite having the personnel to move the football. The line is the problem. Justin Evans has never been a reliable run blocker. Paul Mubena was among the worst run blockers in the SEC last season. The tackle spot carries limited experience in that area from his time at South Carolina. Three starters. Three question marks in the same phase.
The backs aren’t the issue — and that’s what makes this frustrating. Noah Mandals flashed genuine explosiveness. Quinn Nan looks built for the Big Ten at 6-foot-3, 220 pounds. Isaiah Mosby has believers inside the program who think he’s the best back in the room. Good runners behind a line that can’t create lanes don’t put up numbers. They disappear.
Rhule has been recruiting hard at the line of scrimmage…