Elkhorn South’s record-setting running back is going to be a Husker. Storm senior Cole Ballard announced on Saturday that he’ll join Nebraska as a preferred walk-on.
New Nebraska defensive line coach Terrance Knighton visited Elkhorn South on Friday. Ballard tagged Knight, head coach Matt Rhule, running backs coach EJ Barthel and offensive coordinator Marcus Satterfield in his tweet announcement. Nebraska originally extended him a preferred walk-on offer on November 5.
COMMITTED 🌽🔴 #GBR @Coach_Knighton @CoachEJbarthel @Coach_Satt @CoachMattRhule pic.twitter.com/MndTOaduZa
— Cole Ballard (@cole_ballard5) December 3, 2022
The Elkhorn South standout joins the list of in-state stars to commit to Nebraska as preferred walk-ons. Grenta’s Korver Demma and Bellevue West’s Cayden Echternach have also committed as PWOs.
Ballard was a three-year starter for the Storm, tallying 3,711 all-purpose yards and 3,180 rushing. He scored 72 touchdowns throughout his career, including a record seven in the October 14 win over Omaha Burke this season. In his senior season alone he ran for 1,491 yards on 158 carries for 9.5 yards per carry. He scored 38 touchdowns on offense with 24 tackles and an interception on defense.
Ballard was also recruited by Oregon, Kansas State, South Dakota State, North Dakota State and Wyoming. None of them offered him scholarships.
