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Lovie Smith calls Nebraska QB Adrian Martinez ‘special’ talent
By Dave Holcomb
Published:
Nebraska sophomore quarterback Adrian Martinez has been a little inconsistent at times this season, but that didn’t stop Illinois coach Lovie Smith from praising the dual-threat quarterback during his press conference Monday.
“As a runner, he presents a lot of problems for you that that can do both the way he can,” Smith said. “Big runner. Can make you miss in open field.”
Smith went on to call Martinez “special” because he can throw the ball as well.
#illini Lovie: Adrian Martinez is an outstanding football player. As a runner, he presents a lot of problems for you that can do both the way he can. Big runner. Can make you miss in open field. But what makes him special is he can throw the football too.
— Jeremy Werner (@JWerner247) September 16, 2019
Martinez started slow in Week 1 against South Alabama, throwing for 178 yards with no touchdowns and an interception in that matchup. But since then, he has 547 yards with four touchdowns and one pick.
Overall, Martinez is averaging 9.7 yards per pass attempt and is responsible for seven total touchdowns.
Nebraska leads the all-time series against Illinois with a record of 12-3-1, which includes three wins over the last three years. The Cornhuskers will visit the Fightin’ Illini this Saturday with kickoff coming at 8 p.m. ET.