Huskers Work at Eliminating the Fumbles

Fixing the fumbles has been a top priority since Nebraska running backs flirted with disaster by coughing up the ball twice in the fourth quarter against Illinois on Oct. 6.

Nebraska offensive coordinator Marcus Satterfield said Tuesday that Anthony Grant had a "really good week" in that regard.

"He's one of the most talented running backs in our league," Satterfield said, "but if you can't hold onto the football, now you start messing with wins and losses."

Grant and backup Emmett Johnson each turned the ball over in the late going against the Fighting Illini. Johnson too has since done a good job of focusing on ball security, Satterfield said.

The Huskers face Northwestern in Lincoln on Saturday. Both teams are 3-3, and both are coming off a bye week.

Ball security was also front and center in the decision to stick with Heinrich Haarberg at quarterback even after Jeff Sims' recovery from a high ankle sprain.

"We're going to play whatever style of football it takes to win games. ... I think the style of football we're playing now is in his wheelhouse, and I think he's doing a really nice job of taking care of the football," Satterfield said.

Defensive coordinator Tony White announced that three more players have received Blackshirts: safety Phalen Sanford, linebacker Nick Henrich and defensive end Jimari Butler.

Several players also spoke after Tuesday's practice. Scroll down for coverage and video. Refresh this page to see the latest additions. Asterisk indicates item may require a subscription. | HuskerMax discussion