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Rapid Reaction: Adrian Martinez shines as Nebraska rolls Fordham for first win of 2021
By Paul Harvey
Published:
Final Score: Fordham 7, Nebraska 52
Brief Recap: Fordham showed up ready in Lincoln for Week 1 and played tough throughout the game. Though outmatched against the Huskers, the Rams defenders continued to fly around and deliver hard hits throughout the afternoon. Fordham was even able to tie the game at 7-all early, but it did not take long for the talent and depth of the Huskers to shine through. Scott Frost’s team carried a 24-7 lead into halftime and led by 38-7 heading to the fourth quarter, ensuring plenty of playing time for the backups in the blowout win.
Key Player: It comes as no surprise, but starting quarterback Adrian Martinez was the driving force for the Huskers throughout the first half. He threw for 254 yards on 17-for-23 passing with a touchdown. When the Rams did generate a pass rush, Martinez was able to make plays with his feet. He gained 33 yards on the ground and punched in 2 touchdowns, giving him 3 for the afternoon without a turnover. Martinez would give way to Logan Smothers but only after guiding the offense efficiently in the blowout.
Key Moment: After Nebraska took a 10-7 lead on a field goal, Fordham had a chance to come back and tie the game. The Rams generated a sustained drive and were able to set up a field goal to potentially knot the score at 10-all. Fortunately, Marquel Dismuke had other plans, providing the block and keeping Fordham off the scoreboard. The Rams would not get any closer the rest of the way.
Key Stat: 300+, rushing yards for the game. Nebraska eclipsed 300 yards on the ground while averaging 5.1 yards per carry with 5 TDs on the ground. In total, the Huskers gained 327 yards on the ground while finishing with over 600 yards of offense. It was that ground performance that allowed Nebraska to sustain drives and maintain control of the game while building a lead.
What it means moving forward: Nebraska notches its first win of the season, and it comes in a game that was a no-doubter. The Huskers looked how they needed to against a lesser opponent, leaving no chance of an upset. Now, Nebraska pivots to a Sept. 11 showdown with Buffalo before competition ramps back up. In two weeks, the Huskers will face off against Oklahoma.
Paul is a lifelong fan and student of all things college football. He has been covering college football since 2017 and the B1G since 2018.