Burkhead missed five games because of a broken foot last year, but the sophomore from Plano, Texas, proved to be a more-than-capable playmaker in the NU offense. The instinctive and explosive running back finished his debut season in strong fashion, rushing 52 times in the final three games. He’s expected to compete for playing time with returning starter Roy Helu and sophomore Dontrayevous Robinson.

* * *

Q: What kind of improvement do you want to make this year?

A: It really doesn’t matter. It’s the coaches’ decision as to how they want to play us and (what) our role is in the offense and our role in the games. It’s up to them to do whatever they want.

Q: What are your expectations for how the position battle at RB will play out?

A: It’s still (Helu’s) starting spot. He’s going to carry the load at the beginning. Whenever Coach (Tim) Beck or Coach (Shawn) Watson wants me to work in, I’ll be more than happy to step in and do that.

Q: You played a lot last year. Do you feel like a leader on this team?

A: They want me to be a leader out there, someone to speak up and lead by example. So far I think it’s gone well, and hopefully it’ll continue throughout the season.

Q: What did you learn last season about playing football at this level?

A: The competition picks up. There’s so many things you have to learn about, especially the offense, reads and certain cuts you have to make out on the field. It’s so much different than high school.

Q: How do you deal with a 100-plus-degree heat index?

A: Just try to stay hydrated between reps, get as much water as we can and get those electrolytes in us. Definitely the cold towel in between reps helps a lot.

Q: Does that weather remind you of Texas a little bit?

A: Oh, definitely. Not as hot, but close. I guess I’m kind of used to it.

Q: Really, it’s hotter in Texas?

A: Oh, yeah. Definitely.

— Jon Nyatawa

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