Shields Visit Highlight of Thursday Practice

Lincoln--A visit by 12-time Pro Bowl offensive lineman and 1992 Outland Trophy winner Will Shields highlighted the two-hour workout by the Nebraska football team at Memorial Stadium Thursday.  The Huskers used the practice to continue to finalize preparations for its season opener against Nevada on Saturday.

 

“He’s a pro’s pro,” Head Coach Bill Callahan said of Shields.  “I thought his presentation to our team was exceptional because he sent a great message: prepare, study, do what’s right and be a great guy.  They’re simple messages, but when they come from a person of his stature, it means more.  I respect Will more than anyone.”

 

Callahan not only respects the former Husker Shields from their battles in the AFC West as members of the Raiders and Chiefs, respectively, but also for Shields’ extensive community work, for which Shields was named the 2003 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year.

 

“I have more respect for what he did off the field than what he did on the field,” Callahan said.  “What he has does in his foundation and his outreach to the community has been exemplary.”

 

After Shields’ presentation, the Huskers worked out in helmets and shorts.  Offensive guard Matt Slauson and I-back Cody Glenn continued to progress after recent injuries.

 

“They’re doing well,” Callahan said.  “Both guys practiced well today and both will play against Nevada.  I was encouraged.”

 

With only a walkthrough remaining before the season opener, the status of several roles remains undecided.  The hotly contested kicker race remains a dead heat.

 

“We’ll look at that tonight,” Callahan said.  “We’ll look at all the film and make a decision (for the starting kicker), probably tomorrow.”

 

Nebraska will close fall camp with a walkthrough at Memorial Stadium tomorrow in preparation for the 20th-ranked Huskers’ season opener against the Wolfpack on Saturday at 2:30, televised regionally on ABC.