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By Brandon CavanaughWith sophomore defensive tackle Chase Rome likely out for the duration of spring practice, the spot opposite senior Baker Steinkuhler has a bright spotlight to shine on his replacement, if only temporarily.
While Rome rests, new defensive line coach Rick Kaczenski has the opportunity of molding the young guns of one of Nebraska’s thinnest positions.
Junior Thad Randle played well during modest action in six games last season, mostly rotating in to spell Terrence Moore.
His 6’1” 300-pound frame seems near-prototypical for the type of defensive lineman that helps Bo Pelini’s defenses prevent large interior runs and allow his secondaries to make a living off of coverage sacks.
Former LSU defensive tackle and current Kansas City Chief Glenn Dorsey (6’1” 297 pounds) is a prime example of this style of squatty, space-filling lineman. While Randle isn’t quite on Dorsey’s level, he could be used to play a similar role.
Three other talents look to make their mark this spring in sophomore Jay Guy along with redshirt freshmen Kevin Williams and Todd Peat, Jr. Guy and Williams both fit the squatty mold (6’1” 295 pounds and 6’2” 270 pounds, respectively) while Peat stands out slightly at 6’3” 305 pounds.
Feelings about Peat have been mixed as he has the size, but there has been a questioning of his work ethic, and whether or not tipping over 300 pounds is ideal for his production.
Look for the possibility of Kaczenski and Nebraska strength and condition coach James Dobson to work 10-15 pounds off of Peat during this spring and summer.
While only a handful of names, until Aaron Curry and Vincent Valentine arrive in the fall along with Rome's eventual return, Kaczenski must use Nebraska’s limited number of practices wisely.
If he’s successful in implementing his brand of technique and motivation, Rome’s absence could be a blessing in disguise come kickoff against Southern Miss and throughout Nebraska's second go at a Big Ten slate.
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