No. 13 Corey McKeon, 6-1, 225, linebacker

McKeon’s return to action after a one-week absence — assuming he’s full-speed or close to it — could provide Nebraska with a significant boost today.

The junior middle linebacker obviously is effective in run support, which could come in handy against a Texas A&M offense that leads the Big 12 and ranks eighth nationally in rushing with an average of 212.7 yards per game.

“They not only have two strong running backs, but a quarterback who can run the option as well,” Nebraska coach Bill Callahan said, referring to Aggies sophomore QB Stephen McGee.

Texas A&M often uses a veer option attack, but can switch comfortably into no-back sets that feature the pass.

“It’s a full plate,” Callahan said.

Which makes McKeon’s presence all the more valuable, since he is adept at making the right calls and placing defenders in the right spots.

McKeon suffered a severe ankle sprain as well as a stretched and bruised MCL in his left knee in an Oct. 14 victory at Kansas State. He played but limped through losses to Texas and Oklahoma State before sitting out last week’s win against Missouri.

He practiced this week, and coaches said he’s ready to play.