Nebraska concentrated on kickoff coverage during Thursday’s practice in Lincoln.

Tied for the conference lead with 23 touchbacks this season, the Huskers had just one touchback against Kansas last Saturday on seven kickoffs. The Jayhawks averaged more than 38 yards per return.

Coach Bill Callahan felt that some fine-tuning was in order in the kicking by freshman Adi Kunalic. “I think he was really trying hard to kick it out. He knew the returner was excellent. Sometimes, when you try to hit the ball too hard, you miss the mark somewhat."

"I told him to relax and trust your coverage. You’re not going to be able to hit every one out of the ballpark.”

Nebraska’s defense would be helped by the return of senior linebacker Bo Ruud. Eighth on the team in tackles with 42 and tied for the team lead in interceptions with two, Ruud has been unavailable since early in the Texas A&M game on October 20th.

Callahan is optimistic that Ruud will take the field Saturday for his final home game as a Husker. “He had a good practice and we’ll see how he responds (Friday) and make a decision."