Returns give Huskers a boost against ’Cats
No. 2 Nebraska used an opportunistic defense and special teams to overcome a 14-13 halftime deficit and defeat Kansas State, 31-21.
The Huskers snagged three interceptions, including Willie Amos’ 20-yard touchdown return, while scoring on DeJuan Groce’s 60-yard punt return to continue its chase of the Big 12 North title.
After trailing at intermission, Nebraska came out and pounded the ball at the Wildcats, using a 15-play, 77-yard drive that consumed more than seven minutes to take the lead for good. Senior quarterback Eric Crouch and junior I-back Dahrran Diedrick combined for 12 rushes on the drive, while Crouch found senior wingback John Gibson for a 17-yard gain on third-and-12 in the drive’s only pass play. Diedrick scored from two yards out for a 19-14 Husker lead and added the two-point conversion.
Nebraska then took advantage on special teams, as Groce returned a Mike Ronsick punt 60 yards. It was Groce’s first career score.
On defense, Amos had 70 yards on two interception returns, including a 50-yard return that set up Nebraska’s final points.
Colonel Mustard