LINCOLN, Neb. - Priority number one for the Husker offense this week is getting freshman Quarterback TJ Lateef comfortable and establishing a fluidity between Lateef and the Husker offense.

The Huskers will be without Dylan Raiola for the remainder of the season due to a broken fibula suffered in Saturday’s 21-17 loss to USC. Nebraska is moving forward with TJ Lateef and his first start will be a homecoming as the Compton, CA native returns to the west coast to take on UCLA.

“The conversation with TJ is just be yourself,” Offensive Coordinator Dana Holgorsen said. “He’s not thrusted into a leadership point of view… Dylan’s still going to be around and he’s going to be the tremendous leader he is. I think Coach Rhule’s message was spot on, about, everyone needs to elevate, even me.”

 

“He’s always dialed in, but there’s ben a switch of like ‘I got to run the show now’ that I could see today,” wide receiver Jacory Barney Jr. said. “We’re pretty confident in him this week.”

The biggest element Lateef brings his speed through his ability to run. It’s been a new challenge for Nebraska’s defense to defend and defensive back Deshon Singleton says he’s excited to see it in action.

“I’m looking forward to see TJ this Saturday,” Singleton said. “He’s young, he’s going to be in his home town. His legs can bring something more tot he offense than usual, but I’m excited to see the young fella play.”

 

Nebraska and UCLA kick off at 8:00 p.m. CT Saturday on FOX.