The Nebraska football team practiced in helmets for just over 90 minutes on Monday afternoon. The offense practiced outside on the Ed and Joyanne Gass Practice field, while the defense worked inside of the Hawks Center.

Defensive Coordinator Mark Banker spoke to the media following practice highlighting some of the things his defense is preparing for when the team faces Southern Miss on Saturday.

“They’ve got a good back,” Banker said. “The quarterback is really poised. He understands what they are trying to do in the offense and wide receiver-wise, again, they are all above average. They’ve got good speed. One of their best guys is one of their smallest guys. He’s elusive, he runs good routes and they’ve been feeding him the ball quite a bit.”

Banker also talked about how each of the teams Nebraska has faced has been a challenge in their own way and this Saturday’s game won’t be any different.

“We’re being tested week in and week out. We’re going to be tested again this week,” Banker said. “It’s gadgets all over the place, fast-paced, no huddle. It’s a test for these kids. We’re not breaking in anybody easy. New scheme, old scheme, new coaches, old coaches, it doesn’t matter. We just have to go out and play. That’s what’s great about the game of football and competition. You just have to go out and lay it on the line and go bury your soul and go win a football game.”

It was also announced Monday that junior linebacker Michael Rose-Ivey will be out for some time after suffering an injury last Saturday against Miami. Despite not being able to play, Rose-Ivey will still play an important role, according to Banker.

“I told him today, he’s now Coach Rose,” Banker said. “It will be important that he lends his experience and his leadership to the young linebackers, as well as his leadership to the group.”

The Huskers will practice again tomorrow afternoon.  Check back to huskers.com for more information.