Huskers, Lohr Return to Drills

Lincoln ? Coming off last week's 31-7 win over Utah State, the No. 18 Nebraska football team began preparations for this Saturday's game against Penn State with an hour and 45 minute workout in half pads Monday afternoon.

'We worked a little on everything ? offense, defense and special teams - and got some things done today, which is good.' Solich said. The spirit is good and they have been working hard.'

One piece of good news for Coach Solich was the return of sixth-year senior Jason Lohr to practice. Lohr, has missed nearly two full seasons with knee injuries. While Solich said that the defensive tackle is not in game shape yet, it was encouraging to see him go through Monday's entire practice.

"It was good to see Jason get out here today,' Solich said. 'He's not in playing shape yet, but it will come back to him, and it's good to see him make a comeback.   We'll see how far he comes (in terms of playing against Penn State). Hopefully everything will hold up, and he will continue to practice. If that happens, he can get back into playing shape in not too long of a time.'

One area that has been a strength for the Huskers early on has been the play of linebackers Demorrio Williams, T.J. Hollowell and Barrett Ruud, a unit which has helped the Huskers lead the Big 12 in rush defense and total defense.

'As a group of linebackers, they have been something special through these first two games,' Solich said.

Williams was named Big 12 Player of the Week on Monday after making nine tackles, including three sacks and two forced fumbles against Utah State, an honor which was well-deserved according to the Husker head coach.

 'It's a great honor for him,' Solich said. 'He is a very unselfish player. The reason for him being named captain was his athletic ability and the fact that he is so unselfish and team-oriented.'

The Huskers will have their Tuesday press conference beginning at 11:30 a.m. before returning to practice in full pads Tuesday afternoon.