Under the Microscope: The Newcomers, 10/11

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BY STEVEN M. SIPPLE / Lincoln Journal Star

Maurice Purify’s growing role as a clutch receiver reached a zenith against Iowa State, as the 6-foot-4, 215-pound junior college transfer made arguably the most important play of the game.

He hauled in a 27-yard touchdown catch with three seconds left in the second quarter to give Nebraska a 21-7 lead and a giant dose of momentum heading into the locker room. The Huskers caught the Cyclones in a corner blitz.

“Zac (Taylor) found the matchup, exploited their corner and let Mo go up and get the ball, which he does so well,” NU coach Bill Callahan said. For the season, Purify has 11 receptions for 260 yards and two touchdowns, with 10 of those catches going for first downs.

True freshman cornerback Rickey Thenarse played in dime coverage against Iowa State and batted down a fourth-quarter pass on a third-and-15 play from Nebraska’s 22-yard line. It marked the first time this season Nebraska had used the dime look, as the Huskers felt challenged by the Cyclones’ tall and fast receivers.

Another true freshman cornerback, Corey Young, who played briefly in regular-down situations against Kansas, recorded two special-teams tackles against Iowa State to raise his season total to nine.

Kenny Wilson received one carry against Iowa State, but it was nullified by penalty. The Huskers emphasized pounding the ball between the tackles against the Cyclones, which better suited Cody Glenn and Brandon Jackson. Wilson, a juco transfer, has only four official carries (for 33 yards) in the last two games.