LINCOLN — Jake Locker has a chance to make the kind of early-season, attention-grabbing statement that seems required of every Heisman Trophy candidate.
If he could lead his team to an upset win over No. 8 Nebraska on ABC, Locker’s stock would rise considerably — especially given the growing perception of the Huskers as a defensive power.
But if that were Locker’s prime worry, he probably wouldn’t even be at Washington anymore.
He turned down a likely lucrative NFL contract for one more season with the Huskies. If the team succeeds, he figures, the awards will come.
“I made my decision because it was what I felt was right for me, for my family and for this program going forward,” Locker said. “I haven’t regretted it a day since. I’m happy to be here and a part of this football team.”
Locker vs. the Blackshirts — it’s a story line that will be monitored across the country.
Locker said he’s eager to see how he and his teammates collectively handle a week’s worth of game preparation for a marquee opponent and how they react during the game’s pressure-filled moments.
“I think it’s a good challenge for our offense,” he said. “Obviously, (Nebraska’s) very, very talented. They do a lot of really great things on defense.”
Lately, the Husker defense has been most impressive in its ability to slow passing offenses. NU led the nation in opponent passing efficiency last year and allowed just 10.4 points per game. Against Idaho, Nebraska’s defense was responsible for five interceptions and seven sacks.
But NU has little room for error this week.
Locker finished last season with 2,800 passing yards, the third-best one-year total in Washington history. He led the Pac-10 by producing 3,188 yards of total offense.
And he spent all of last season adjusting to a new offense under first-year coach Steve Sarkisian. There’s still work to do, but Locker said he’s used to the playbook now.
“I think you’re always progressing within the offense and becoming more and more comfortable with every snap you take,” he said. “You’re always learning more, feeling more comfortable, and feeling like you have more command of the offense the more time you spend in it.”
Sarkisian has noticed a difference.
He said Locker has applied game-plan concepts more effectively in the moment this season, which has created big-play chances. Locker, who’s been sacked just once so far, has also improved inside the pocket, according to Sarkisian.
And not to be undervalued is Locker’s character, Sarkisian said.
“As physically gifted as he is — big, strong, fast, strong arm — he’s a better person,” Sarkisian said. “He’s loyal. He’s humble. He’s got a great work ethic on and off the field.”
Contact the writer:
402-473-9585, jon.nyatawa@owh.com
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