Jacory Barney’s electric play impressing Nebraska teammates

Nebraska freshman receiver Jacory Barney is electric, according to the defensive coordinator who has seen him most.

Tony White, who runs the Huskers’ defense, called Barney a “difference maker” in practice and the games.

“He makes guys miss,” White said Tuesday.

Barney’s speed and twitchiness help in practice to prepare the defensive backs, and his work in practice translated onto the field Saturday in Nebraska’s 28-10 win over Colorado. The Miami native caught six passes for 29 yards and two carries for 28 yards. Pro Football Focus graded him last week as the sixth-best power conference wide receiver with a grade of 85.9.

Quarterback Dylan Raiola said he didn’t know Barney until he committed and later found out they would be roommates.

After that, the pair began to connect and get close. Since they became roommates, Raiola knew Barney had the work ethic, talent and speed to be an elite player.

“It was just a matter of the chemistry and understanding each other,” Raiola said. “That dude’s special.”

Although Barney had plays erased in the game with penalties, Raiola said Barney had a quick memory and moved on from it.

“That’s the best part about him,” Raiola said. “He doesn’t care what happens, good or bad, he’s going to move on to the next play.”

Barney’s play in practices and games has stood out to his fellow Nebraska teammates. Wide receiver Jahmal Banks said Barney will continue to improve as he gets bigger and stronger.

“He’s so talented,” Banks said. “He’s very confident, too, and it shows the way he plays.”

One of the players who goes against Barney in practice, linebacker John Bullock, added that while the receiver makes freshman mistakes occasionally, like every young player, his love for the game and ability still pose a challenge defensively.

“He’s an amazing player,” Bullock said. “His explosiveness keeps you on your toes.”

Huskers offensive coordinator Marcus Satterfield said the coaching staff quickly realized that the freshman could immediately impact the team.

He recalled the Huskers’ spring game, where Barney displayed his speed and dynamic ability as a receiver and returner.

Satterfield said Barney loves playing football, and the wide receiver is the kind of player you want to recruit who loves to practice and play the games. The combination of his work ethic and talent makes him a special player.

“He always has a smile on his face,” Satterfield said. “Continually recess for him when he’s out there on the football field.”