Nebraska DC Takes Responsibility for Washington’s Winning Touchdown

Nebraska defensive coordinator Rob Aurich said the decision to blitz cornerback Andrew Marshall before Washington’s go-ahead touchdown was his call. The Huskies scored on a 25-yard pass late in their 17-10 win, capping a 12-play, 81-yard drive that took less than three minutes off the clock. Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule had said he recommended the defensive approach, but Aurich said the final decision belonged to him.

Washington extended the drive with two difficult conversions: quarterback Demond Williams ran 17 yards on third-and-15, and the Huskies later converted fourth-and-18 after taking two sacks in three plays. Aurich said Nebraska wanted to pressure Williams and prevent him from holding the ball, and praised Washington for completing the pass and catch that produced the touchdown.

Aurich cited a review of fourth-and-15-to-20 situations in Big Ten and SEC games over the previous three seasons. Of nine conversions among roughly 40 to 42 such plays, he said, seven came against soft coverage and a three- or four-man rush. Nebraska chose to pressure Williams rather than use that approach.

The Huskers’ defense has allowed an average of 270.8 yards and 15.6 points per game, ranking eighth nationally, while Nebraska is 5-3 overall and 2-3 in Big Ten play. Aurich also credited the Memorial Stadium crowd for contributing to six Washington false starts.

Nebraska is set to face Illinois on Friday night. Aurich said the Illini have three running backs who consistently gain yardage and can wear down a defense. The game is scheduled for 7 p.m. Central and will air on FOX.