Lincoln, Neb.- The Nebraska football team continued its preparations for their primetime showdown Saturday night with the Miami Hurricanes, as the Huskers conducted a 1-hour and 50-minute practice Tuesday afternoon inside of the Hawks Championship Center and outside on the Ed and Joyanne Gass Practice Fields.

Defensive coordinator John Papuchis met with media members after practice, showing a great deal of respect to the athletic Hurricanes.

“They have a lot of weapons at every skilled position, they have guys that can take it to the house every time they touch the ball,” Papuchis said. “They are good upfront, so it is going to be a challenge, it is the best offense we have played this season.”

Miami will likely start a true freshman at quarterback. Brad Kaaya was named the starting quarterback by head coach Al Golden during fall camp and has started each of the Hurricanes first three games.

Kaaya is a native of West Hills, Calif., and a graduate of Chaminade High, where he was a teammate of current Husker sophomore running back Terrell Newby.

“He is efficient with the ball, he doesn’t look like a freshman out there playing. He doesn’t make a ton of mistakes, he does not look nervous or rattled in the pocket,” he said. “I have been impressed with him.”

Papuchis said what scares him the most about Miami’s offense is their big-play ability.

“They are athletic enough at every skill position that if you miss a tackle it could turn into a touchdown,” Papuchis said. “They have great speed at wideout, so I am concerned with balls being thrown over our head, but our guys are aware of it and we have to tackle well to limit explosive plays.”

The Nebraska football team will continue its week of preparation Wednesday as the Huskers prepare for their Saturday night showdown with the Miami Hurricanes. Kickoff between the two national powers will be nationally televised on ESPN2 at 7pm (CT).