Lincoln, Neb.-  The Nebraska football team continued its week of preparation for Saturday’s Big Ten conference showdown with Michigan on Wednesday afternoon. The team practiced in helmets and shoulder pads for just over two hours inside the Hawks Center and outside at the Ed and Joyanne Gass Practice Fields.

Defensive Coordinator John Papuchis addressed the media after practice, noting that at this point in the season, the Huskers are starting to be smarter with how they are practicing.

“It is that time of the year when you have to make sure you are smart with how you go about your reps, but I thought our guys’ energy was terrific,” Papuchis said. “I think they are excited to go on the road and play a big game in Michigan.”

A concern for NU going into this week’s matchup with Michigan is how the defense will play against the ultra-dynamic pro-style offense the Wolverines run. Led behind junior star quarterback Devin Garner, who has thrown for 1989 yards with 13 touchdowns and 11 interceptions, the Michigan offense poses a huge threat toward the Blackshirt defense.

Leading receiver Jeremy Gallon, a senior from Apoka, Fla., is another player to keep your eye on during the gameSaturday. Gallon has caught 50 balls this year for 898 yards with seven touchdowns. With all that production, Papuchis knows the Blackshirts need to keep a close eye on Gallon.

“We have a ton of respect for him (Gallon). He is one of the best players in this league obviously and we know what he is capable of doing,” Papuchis said. “We are definitely going to have our hands full, we have a lot of respect for what they do but I like our plans and I think we will be ready to roll.”

You might remember a key interception return for a touchdown in this past week’s game against Northwestern by redshirt freshman Avery Moss. Not only has Moss been making big plays, he has been catching the eyes of the Nebraska coaching staff recently.

“The thing about Avery is this is really his first true year of being healthy and playing a full year of football,” Papuchis said. “He hasn’t played a whole year yet, he keeps getting better every day. He is kind of one of those guys who hasn’t really scratched the surface of what he could potentially be. He brings it every day and works hard at practice.”

Nebraska will hit the practice field again on Thursday as the team moves closer to its fifth conference game of the season. The Huskers will face the Michigan Wolverines on Saturday at 2:30 p.m. CT. The game will be broadcast nationally on ABC.