Two days after making one of the most memorable catches in Nebraska history, redshirt freshman wide receiver Jordan Westerkamp was named the Big Ten Freshman of the Week on Monday.
Westerkamp produced four catches for 104 yards in Nebraska’s 27-24 come-from-behind victory over Northwestern. His fourth and final catch came off a 49-yard tipped Hail Mary pass from Ron Kellogg III as time expired, giving Westerkamp his first touchdown reception. The 49-yard reception was also a career long, while Westerkamp’s game-winning touchdown grab made the Huskers eligible for their 50th all-time bowl appearance.
The memorable Hail Mary catch – believed to be the first game-winning Hail Mary touchdown pass in school history – was not Westerkamp’s only clutch reception against the Wildcats. All four of his catches went for first downs, as the Lombard, Ill., native averaged 26.0 yards per reception. Entering the game, Westerkamp had made 10 career catches for 90 yards.
In addition to honoring Westerkamp, the Big Ten also recognized Minnesota’s Philip Nelson and Penn State’s Bill Belton as Offensive co-Players of the Week, Michigan State’s Denicos Allen as Defensive Player of the Week and Minnesota’s Peter Mortell as Special Teams Player of the Week.
Westerkamp and his Husker teammates will take a 6-2 overall record and a 3-1 mark in conference play into a key Big Ten Legends Division matchup at Michigan on Saturday. Kickoff is set for 2:30 p.m. and the game will be televised on ABC.