Nebraska Lists Two Starters as Questionable for Illinois
Safety Jamir Conn and offensive lineman Gunnar Gottula are the focal points of the Huskers' availability report after three straight losses.
By Javier Sanders ·
The Nebraska football team enters its Friday night contest against the Illinois Fighting Illini with a 5-3 record and a pressing need for depth. After dropping three consecutive games, the Huskers face a critical Big Ten matchup where both squads hold identical marks, though Illinois leads the conference standings by one game. The availability report released Tuesday places two starting-caliber players in uncertain status, adding complexity to a game that could determine the trajectory of the season.
Senior safety Jamir Conn, who started the first six games, is listed as questionable. Conn contributed 26 tackles, five tackles for loss, and two sacks before suffering an injury during the second half of the October 10 game against Indiana. His absence forced junior defensive back Caleb Benning into a larger role. Benning responded with strong performances, earning an 84.2 PFF grade on 73 snaps against Oregon and a 76.8 grade on 67 snaps against Washington.
Defensive coordinator Rob Aurich indicated that Conn attended practice during the week but must clear additional hurdles before returning to the field. Aurich stated that when Conn does return, he will be welcomed by the team. The safety’s potential return would restore a key element to a defense that has struggled to maintain consistency following his departure from the starting lineup.
On the offensive side, Gunnar Gottula is also listed as questionable. The 6-foot-6, 320-pound lineman started the first seven games before sustaining a head injury against Oregon. He missed the subsequent game against Washington, likely due to concussion protocol. His upgrade to questionable status suggests he may be cleared for action in Champaign. Gottula has played 362 offensive snaps this season, allowing only one sack and four quarterback hurries.
The offensive line has relied on a stable group without Gottula. Against Washington, the starting unit of Elijah Pritchett, Paul Mubenga, Justin Evans, Brendan Black, and Tree Babalade played the entire game. Each of those players took 77 offensive snaps. The protection unit would benefit from Gottula’s presence in whatever capacity he can play, given the physical demands of the Illinois defense.
Other roster changes include fifth-year running back Vincent Genatone, who is out for the season following surgery. The North Platte native appeared in the first six games, rushing for 10 yards on seven carries and scoring two touchdowns, along with one reception for 13 yards and a score. Fifth-year edge rusher Anthony Jones Jr., a transfer from UCLA, is also listed out with a broken foot. Jones has started all seven games he has played, recording 19 tackles and a pass deflection. He is expected to return before the end of the season.
The Huskers also listed Larry Miles, Kahmir Prescott, Jase Reynolds, Jacob Bower, and Gabe Moore as out, a status that has persisted since the start of the season. With the offense and defense facing personnel challenges, the team’s ability to field its preferred starters will be the defining factor in the outcome against Illinois.
