Huskers expecting to have hands full with Arkansas State (Defensive) line

[Seminole Indian]

The Nebraska offensive line has a lot of respect for Ja'Von Rolland-Jones, even if the unit wasn't mentioning the Arkansas State defender by name. Instead it was by number. Each lineman that talked mentioned the Huskers had to look and find No. 11.

No. 11 or Rolland-Jones, is coming off a strong junior campaign where he terrorized opposing quarterbacks. The Sun Belt Player of the Year racked up 13.5 sacks, on his way to the school record 30.5 sacks for his career.

It's not just pass rushing either, Rolland-Jones amassed 57 tackles, with 21.5 tackles for a loss last season.

Line coach Mike Cavanaugh said Arkansas State does a nice job freeing Rolland-Jones up, as he's capable of moving around and causing problems from a number of areas.

"They've got some good players," Cavanaugh said. "The defensive ends are both good players, can rush the passer, athletic guys that can run. The inside guys are physical and can anchor in there. Obviously we've got to do a great job of leverage and move people.

"There's stunts and different games that they play. We've got to be sharp."

Nebraska's last contest, the Music City Bowl, featured strong pass rush and the Tennessee Volunteers made the night uncomfortable for the Huskers' quarterbacks. Arkansas State will certainly look to do the same.

Tackle Nick Gates said he's expecting a lot of different looks from Arkansas State on Saturday, in an effort to get the Huskers to scramble when the ball is snapped.

Communication will be key and it's something the Huskers have been working on throughout camp.

"We've worked on that a lot," he said. "We're right over here working on that before practice, after practice. It's definitely something we need to know."


http://nebraska.247sports.com/Bolt/Arkansas-State-defensive-line-a-challenge-for-Nebraska-106763612