Each recruiting cycle is different and brings its own unique set of questions and storylines. Most people — myself included — expect the 2020 cycle to be a big year on the recruiting trail for Nebraska. The talent is deep in this class and the Huskers have spent almost a couple of years building relationships with this group.
Let’s look at some of the big storylines for the 2020 cycle.
Can Nebraska break through in St. Louis?
Every recruiting cycle, Nebraska wants to make a push into St Louis. That makes sense because it’s driving distance and there are a lot of talented players in the area. However, the last player the Huskers signed from St. Louis was Tre Bryant. The class of 2020 offers another big opportunity with numerous legit Power 5 prospects in that area.
Will Nebraska get back into the ‘Big 3’?
In the 2019 class, the Huskers only signed one player from California, Florida or Texas: defensive lineman Brant Banks from Texas. That was it. As for 2020? Texas is the state that Nebraska has offered the most scholarship in for 2020 cycle so far with 42 total offers. Florida is second (39) and California is fourth (22) behind Georgia. Based on the 103 total scholarship offers in the “Big 3” states, Nebraska will make a significant push to change its fortunes from the 2019 recruiting class.
How nervous will Nebraska get about keeping Logan Smothers?
Nebraska’s 2020 quarterback is a popular prospect down South. Since his commitment to Nebraska, he has continued to pick up offers even though he doesn’t make a big deal of all the new attention. However, Alabama and Ole Miss are not going away any time soon.
Smothers hasn’t been taking visits but there is a reason why quarterbacks coach Mario Verduzco was down in Alabama visiting Smothers and his dad every week during the contact period. The staff is aware that teams keep coming after Smothers and are working hard to keep him in the fold despite the family giving no indication they are looking around.
Will team success elevate recruiting?
When I talk to prospects, a lot mention that they know this staff did great things at UCF and will do great things in Lincoln. Nebraska is in quite a few early top 25s and most think they will at least double the win total from last year. So, what happens if those things come true this season? Will it provide a bump in a loaded 2020 group? My feeling is yes, but Nebraska has to take care of business on the field first.
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.
