Ranking The Big Ten Secondaries

5.) Nebraska

Jan 1, 2014; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Georgia Bulldogs wide receiver Chris Conley (31) is hit by Nebraska Cornhuskers safety Corey Cooper (6) during the second half of the game at EverBank Field . Mandatory Credit: Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports

Two years ago (2012) Nebraska had to deal with the loss of Big Ten Defensive Back Player of the Year Alfonzo Dennard as well as their starting free safety, and last year they had to replace a Big Ten first-team safety. This year they’ve got to replace big playmakers again after Stanley Jean-Baptiste, who was initially a great replacement is gone along with Ciante Evans (10.5 tackles for loss).

The good news is that SS Corey Cooper is back, and he’s still really good. 71.5 tackles accounted for a whopping 10.2% of the team’s total tackles, and hell be asked to do a lot of mentoring with LeRoy Alexander at the other safety spot. Corners Josh Mitchell and Nathan Gerry don’t have a ton of experience, but they are a talented bunch with room for growth.