Shining stars

The five starters figure to be Carl Nicks at left tackle, Andy Christensen at left guard, Brett Byford at center, Matt Slauson at right guard and Lydon Murtha at right tackle. The 6-5, 335-pound Slauson was a preseason All-Big 12 pick, and Nicks, 6-5 and 330, is considered NFL material.

Others to watch

Mike Huff completely tore the Achilles’ tendon in his right foot during a winter conditioning drill, and the initial prognosis had him missing most if not all of preseason camp. Instead, Huff enjoyed a strong summer of rehabilitation and has been practicing regularly. The junior from Ralston started 13 games last season at right guard. He has been practicing on both the right and left sides in preseason camp.

Looking into the future

Redshirt freshmen Keith Williams, D.J. Jones and Mike Smith have made big impressions already. Indeed, it could be hard to keep the 6-5, 310-pound Williams off the field this season, as he is pushing for time at left guard. And don’t forget about sophomore Jacob Hickman, a utility-type lineman who started against Missouri last season.

Telescopic view

Offensive line coach Dennis Wagner has extra bounce in his step these days because he finally has the depth in his line that he longed for when he took the Husker job in 2004. He likes the fact that players are battling to make the travel roster — he can take 11 linemen on the road. He likes the fact that NU can still function at a high level even with an injury or two. He likes the fact he can afford to have his true freshmen sit out as redshirts. As for this season, the line is considered one of the team’s foremost strengths.

Grade: Four stars