LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Safety Nate Gerry (Gary) has turned into one of Nebraska’s biggest defensive playmakers after spending last season at linebacker.

He’s intercepted a pass in three straight games and in four of the last five. He’s the Cornhuskers’ second-leading tackler.

Gerry said he’s happier playing in the secondary. Coach Bo Pelini said Gerry was needed to bolster depth in a young linebacker corps. The plan was for Gerry to play his more natural safety position this year.

Pelini said Gerry has a better understanding of the defense because of his experience at linebacker.

The 11th-ranked Cornhuskers play at No. 22 Wisconsin on Saturday.