Under the microscope, 8/30: The newcomers

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BY BRIAN ROSENTHAL / Lincoln Journal Star

* Finally, we all get to see junior college transfer Kenny Wilson in action at running back. Whether that’s the first play, the last play, or about 10 plays in between ... well, that remains to be seen. But we’ve heard (and written) enough hype about Wilson that everyone’s eager to see what the fuss is about. Right now, Wilson’s Nebraska legacy is a tackle-breaking run in a preseason scrimmage. Let’s hope that’s not what Wilson is still known for by the end of the season.

* Those who’ve seen wide receiver Maurice Purify extensively in practice say he will be among the best receivers Nebraska has ever had. Again, a lot of hype for a guy who’s yet to play a down in a Husker uniform. For that matter, he’s not yet even first-string on the depth chart. Of course, at receiver, especially, a depth chart is worth about as much as the paper it’s written on. Right now, Purify is co-No. 2, with Frantz Hardy, behind starter Nate Swift at the “X” receiver. Why is Purify so hyped? For one, he’s physical, and he’s also reportedly made some spectacular catches in practice. He also could be somebody to help stretch the field.

* As much talk as there’s been about Wilson and Purify, the junior college transfer who figures to play the most critical role this season is Andre Jones. The cornerback has been thrust into a starting role, a necessity with the season-ending injury to Zack Bowman. Remember, it took Bowman most of last season to live up to his hype as a lockdown corner. Jones may have to learn more quickly. Behind him is a converted receiver, Isaiah Fluellen, who’s only been on defense for a few weeks.

* It’s probably unrealistic to expect the Huskers to unearth another Sam Koch. But they’re expecting Dan Titchener to at least be serviceable as punter. In other words, good hang time, reasonable distance (40-plus yards), and no major mistakes. Titchener is a sophomore. Behind him is a true freshman Michael Such.