Nebraska sits with just one true defensive lineman in its 2020 recruiting class: Nash Hutmacher out of Chamberlain, South Dakota. The Huskers coaching staff would love to add more players to defensive line coach Tony Tuioti’s room as they continue to make that unit into a strength of the team.
One player to keep an eye on is 3-star (HV Rating: 82.2) defensive lineman Nusi Malani. The California defender has been in contact with the staff for months now. In addition to the Huskers, Malani holds offers from Arizona State, Colorado and a handful of other schools.
Official Offer🌽☠️#GBR pic.twitter.com/XMBTFky16O
— Nus👑 (@JuiceNus) August 2, 2019
I caught up with Malani to get his thoughts on his official visit to Lincoln, his relationship with the staff and more.
Here is the full Q&A:
Which Husker coaches do you talk the most to?
“Coach Tuioti, Coach [Erik] Chinander. Those are the main two. I talked to Coach [Scott] Frost yesterday on FaceTime.”
How would you describe the relationship with staff?
“I have a really good relationship with them. They talk to me on the daily. They check on me almost every day. Coach Chinander texts me asking me how and what I’m doing. I really like it. Coach Tuioti checks in every once in a while. It was nice talking to Coach Frost too.”
Have you taken any officials this spring or summer?
“I have not, my first visit will be my official to Nebraska. I’ll be there for the Northern Illinois game on the [September] 13th.
What things are you most looking forward to on the visit?
“They told me about the fan energy and how the stadium is packed. They say the fans there go crazy. I want to see that for myself and meet all the staff. I want to see what the environment is like and seeing what it’s like out there.
What other schools are you looking at right now?
“I’m still open. I’m not eliminating anyone yet. I’m open to everyone still.”
Would you say distance is a factor for you?
“Somewhat but sometimes you have to do what you have to do.”
How has it been getting to know Frost?
“It was cool. He actually called me during one of my friend’s birthday party. We talked about how he was watching my Hudl [highlights], how much he wants me and he wants to see me out there for my official visit. He likes how I play and said I’d be a really good fit at Nebraska.”
What would you say are the strengths of your game?
“I would say that I always hustle and never give up on a play. You never know what is going to happen. I’m quick off the line. Mostly that I never give up on a play, I’m always chasing.”
What are some things you are most looking for in a school?
“I’m looking for education and a good football program of course. I’m looking for the type of people and environment I’m going to be around. I’d like to see the city life too because I’ve grown up that way.”
https://www.hudl.com/video/3/8194318/5bdfb2bfb023840ed84c120f
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.
