Huskers RBs Impress at Spring Game

New offensive coordinator E.J. Barthel sees strong performances from running backs in Nebraska's annual spring scrimmage.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 10:05pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a football game in motion, with players and the field broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of red, white, and black, capturing the dynamic energy of the sport.The Huskers' spring game showcased the team's talented crop of running backs, hinting at an explosive offense in the upcoming season.Lincoln Today

Nebraska's annual spring football game featured impressive showings from the team's running backs, with new offensive coordinator E.J. Barthel praising their efforts. Barthel, who joined the Huskers' staff after previously working under head coach Matt Rhule, was asked about the running game during a recent high school coaches clinic in Pennsylvania.

Why it matters

The strong spring game performances from Nebraska's running backs provide optimism for the upcoming season, as the team looks to improve an offense that struggled at times last year. Barthel's arrival as the new OC also brings a fresh perspective and scheme that could unlock more production from the backfield.

The details

Several Huskers running backs stood out in the spring game, including sophomore Jamal Mosley who had multiple long touchdown runs. Junior Malik Betts also impressed with his physicality and vision. Barthel, who previously coached at Baylor and the NFL's Carolina Panthers, was pleased with what he saw from the running game as he installs his new offensive system.

  • The Nebraska spring football game took place on April 5, 2026.
  • Barthel and head coach Matt Rhule attended a high school coaches clinic in Pennsylvania in February 2026, where Barthel was asked about the Huskers' running backs.

The players

E.J. Barthel

Nebraska's new offensive coordinator, who previously worked under head coach Matt Rhule at Baylor and the Carolina Panthers.

Matt Rhule

The head football coach at the University of Nebraska.

Jamal Mosley

A sophomore running back for the Nebraska Cornhuskers who had multiple long touchdown runs in the spring game.

Malik Betts

A junior running back for the Nebraska Cornhuskers who impressed with his physicality and vision in the spring game.

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What they’re saying

“The kid looked really good out there. I'm excited to see what he can do in our new offense.”

— E.J. Barthel, Offensive Coordinator

What’s next

Barthel and the Huskers' coaching staff will continue to evaluate the running back position as they finalize the depth chart and game plan for the upcoming season.

The takeaway

Nebraska's running game appears to be a strength heading into the 2026 season, with new offensive coordinator E.J. Barthel praising the performances of several backs in the spring game. This could be a key factor in the Huskers' efforts to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 campaign.