Huskers’ Depth Chart at Running Back Comes Into Focus

Gabe Ervin Jr. has unseated Anthony Grant as Nebraska's No. 1 guy at running back.

That was one of a slew of updates from head coach Matt Rhule after Saturday's scrimmage, the 18th practice of Nebraska football fall camp.

Rhule said Ervin is "clearly the No. 1 guy" and the versatile Rahmir Johnson is "clearly the third-down back and still a runner."

Grant, who rushed for more than 900 yards as the Huskers' starter in 2022, has been coughing up the ball too much lately, Rhule said. "We're going to continue to work with AG. ... Anthony knows, 'I've got to conquer that.' When he's right, he sees it as well as anybody. So we have a 1-2-3 punch."

On defense, Rhule said, true freshman Cameron Lenhardt is neck and neck with Blaise Gunnerson at defensive end. "They're both starters," Rhule said.

The offense's procedural mistakes of last week's scrimmage were not an issue Saturday, Rhule said, but the placekicking game struggled again. True freshman Tristan Alvano and Timmy Bleekrode continue battling for the No. 1 job.

Classes begin Monday, and a "mock game" is set for Thursday evening, one week before the Aug. 31 season opener at Minnesota.

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Coverage

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Husker247 | Rhule gives rundown on Husker depth chart battles and more
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Husker247 | Rhule discusses the week's upcoming schedule, as camping soon turns to game prepping
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HuskerOnline | Lenhardt's rapid rise at Nebraska continues as season nears
On3 | Matt Rhule shares emphasis on mental health of Nebraska players
Inside Nebraska | DB Phalen Sanford put on scholarship
Nebraska Athletics | Football Fall Camp Video & report: Aug. 19
Lincoln Journal Star* | Rhule: Gabe Ervin is Nebraska's starting running back; kicker competition ongoing
Lincoln Journal Star* | Rhule gives injury updates on Prochazka, Johnson, Washington
Lincoln Journal Star* | Gabe Ervin's 'wow' factor leads to nod as Nebraska's starting running back
Omaha World-Herald* | Backup quarterback race continues
Omaha World-Herald* | Freshman Cam Lenhardt will be co-starter at defensive end, says Matt Rhule

Sights and sounds from scrimmage 3️⃣#GBR x #WhatsNExt! pic.twitter.com/sndKBXZjTZ
— Nebraska Football (@HuskerFootball) August 20, 2023

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