On Friday, Nebraska hosted a huge event when it put on its Big Red BBQ. There were several 2020 official visitors on hand for the event plus 2020 targets on unofficial visits. In addition, there were several 2021 prospects that made their way to Lincoln to be around the coaching staff and visit campus.
One of them was defensive end Jeffrey Bowie out of West Branch, Iowa.
Had a great day at Nebraska today! Thanks to all of the coaches and staff for having me☠️☠️ @CoachChinander @coach_frost @CoachTuioti92 pic.twitter.com/ftj6Rkn4vD
— Jeffrey Bowie (@jeffreyjbowie) June 21, 2019
Bowie, who was making his first trip to Nebraska’s campus, said that overall the trip was really nice and he liked it a lot. He made the drive from just outside Iowa City with his dad and step-dad. They were able to get tours of the facilities and campus and try on the jerseys and they had a chance to meet with the coaches including Scott Frost.
“It was pretty cool talking to Frost,” Bowie said. “He seems like a really nice guy. It seemed like he really was not going to tell you anything he didn’t mean. He seemed really genuine.”
The defender also got a chance to meet with defensive coordinator Erik Chinander. The pair of Iowans actually share an interesting connection besides just being from the same state. Chinander is actually really good friends with Bowie’s uncle. In addition to the defensive coordinator, Bowie also talked to defensive line coach Tony Tuioti.
“I talked to him quite a bit,” Bowie said. “He ate with me. He seemed like a really good guy. We are starting up a good relationship.”
Heading into his junior season, Bowie has some clear goals for himself and his team.
“For my team, I know we want to make it deeper in the playoffs than we have in the last couple of years,” Bowie said. “For me, I want to help out as much as I can wherever I can. I just want to improve during this season from last season.”
The biggest area of improvement for his game according to him is his overall pass rush ability. Since he only lives 10 miles from the Hawkeyes, you might think that he harbors some ill will towards the Huskers. Instead he came into the trip with an open mind.
“I actually didn’t know very much about Nebraska coming in,” Bowie said. “Making the visit was a good experience. Seeing everything there was pretty nice, it was a good experience.”
The Huskers did talk to him about coming back for a game this season to continue building that relationship and get the game-day experience. When it comes to what he’s looking for in a school, the strength program – which he got to see while in Lincoln – will be a major factor.
“Definitely the relationship with the coach,” Bowie said. “Also, the strength program. That’s probably the most important part of your journey because that’s where you spend the most time.”
https://www.hudl.com/video/3/9828942/5c1444b534494908ece0a8d5
Greg is the Recruiting Analyst for Hail Varsity and has covered Husker athletics since 2013. He has always had a passion for sports while growing up in the Chicago area. As he got older and had to hang up his cleats and sneakers, he realized his passion for sports went beyond just watching and attending games. He has covered many events from the Rose Bowl to championship boxing matches. If he’s not talking sports, he’s hovering over his grill. He is married to an amazing woman, Kim, and they have a dog that barks when Greg yells at the TV during games.
