Keven Lightner Season 1987

Honors & Awards

• All-Big Eight (1987)
• Nebraska lifter-of-the-year finalist (1986)

1987 (Senior)
Lightner was a starter during the 1987 season and earned All-Big Eight honors alongside senior guard John McCormick. Widely regarded as one of the strongest players to ever suit up for Nebraska, he was a dominant presence on the offensive line. Lightner helped lead the Huskers to a 10–2 record and an appearance in the Fiesta Bowl against Florida State. Lightner helped Nebraska’s offense ranked among the nation’s elite, finishing second in total offense at 489.0 yards per game, third in rushing at 373.5 yards per game, and third in scoring at 38.5 points per game.

1986 (Junior)
Lightner served as an alternate at left tackle behind Rob Maggard, earning a solid amount of playing time and providing key depth along the offensive line throughout the season. He helped the Huskers reach the 1987 Sugar Bowl, where they defeated LSU Tigers football 30-15. Nebraska finished the year among the nation’s elite, ranking second in rushing offense at 305.5 yards per game and third in scoring at 37.8 points per game.

1985 (Sophomore) 
Lightner lettered at left tackle while providing depth behind Tim Roth along the offensive line. Nebraska captured its fourth NCAA rushing title in six years. The Big Red led the nation by averaging 374.3 rushing yards per game.

1984 (Freshman)
Lightner started every game for the freshman team. Helping them finish with a perfect 5-0 record. 

1983 (Medical Hardship)
Lightner missed the entirety of his freshman season with a broken hand.

Hastings Adams Central High School
Lightner was an all-conference and honorable mention all-state selection as both a linebacker and offensive guard for Coach Paul Wilson. He also lettered three times in football and earned additional letters in basketball. 

Personal
Lightner was a recreation major and the son of Ken and Lynne Lightner. He has two brothers and one sister. His brother, Ken, lettered as a defensive tackle at Colorado in 1984. Born in National City, California.