LINCOLN – Nebraska Coach Matt Rhule addressed the media after the first day of spring practice Monday and called sophomore running back Gabe Ervin Jr. one of the stars of the off-season.

Rhule: “He is one of the fastest guys on the team at 221 pounds, 222 pounds. To me can be  ... he can hopefully be that battering ram that puts games away.”

Rhule noted that Nebraska had the lead late in the third or four quarter four times last season and talked about how the running game can assure those close games turn into victories.

Rhule: “We’re always going to preach a fourth-quarter shutout and fourth-quarter shutouts are helped by the offense when you can have 75 yards rushing in the fourth quarter. Those are things we believe in and I think Gabe has had a sensational camp.”

Ervin said his off-season was focused on staying healthy and increasing his speed.

Ervin: “Like I said this is probably the best I’ve felt. You know, I just feel bigger, more explosive. You know,  that big back that is going to do some damage this year.”

Rhule confirmed that last year’s starting running back, Anthony Grant, had been suspended and wasn’t at the first practice.

The coach commented on the talent of Ajay Allen and the flashes shown by Rahmir Johnson.