Nebraska defensive coordinator Tony White met with members of the media following Monday’s practice. White discussed the execution and speed of the defense going into this Thursday’s game and also addressed the flexibility of the defense. 

“The young men have done everything asked of them,” White said. “It’s been going well, and it can always be better in terms of the coaching staff, teaching or getting rid of the confusion on my end. The process is still ongoing. We tweaked stuff. We put in new things, but at a certain point it’s about eliminating problems and letting them play fast.”

White discussed what it takes to receive a Blackshirt for this year’s defense.

“Consistency,” he said. “Who’s been the most consistent guy and I think Chief (Borders) stood out. His attitude, his efforts, and again, that’s the cool part when you get to reward the effort. Talent. You put that to the side because all the guys are talented. We’re highlighting the effort and the attitude.”

He also spoke on the versatility of the defense this season.

“Coach Dvoracek has done a great job of moving the guys around,” White said. “He’s done a good job of teaching to the point where Javin (Wright) is starting to show up and make a lot of plays. They’ve been intertwining their skill sets so we can put guys at any one spot during the game.”

The Huskers will return to the practice field on Tuesday as they prep for the season opener on Thursday, Aug. 31 at Minnesota.

MURRAY NAMED B1G FRESHMAN OF THE WEEK

Nebraska freshman outside hitter Harper Murray was named Big Ten Freshman of the Week on Monday by the conference office. 

In her first collegiate matches, Murray led the Huskers to a 3-0 record at the Ameritas Players Challenge. The Ann Arbor, Mich., native averaged 3.67 kills per set with a .343 hitting percentage. She also posted 2.33 digs per set and totaled six blocks, five aces and four set assists. 

Murray had nine kills on .350 hitting with five blocks and four digs in her collegiate debut against Utah State. She followed with 10 kills on .389 hitting with seven digs and three aces. Murray finished the weekend with 14 kills on .310 hitting with 10 digs for her first collegiate double-double.