“Mat Drills” set tone for Nebraska newcomers

LINCOLN, Neb. (KOLN) – The Nebraska football team’s winter conditioning hits its intensity peak when players gather for “Mat Drills.” The workouts are strenuous, and for some of the Huskers’ newcomers, surprising.

“It was no joke,” offensive lineman Rocco Spindler said. “I even told my parents, ‘I did not know they take mat drills this serious.’” Spindler previously played at Notre Dame, where he played in the CFP National Championship two months ago.

Kentucky transfer Dane Key said his previous school did not have “mat drills” in its off-season regimen.

“I think I went back and told Coach Shorts, ‘What did I get myself into?’” Key said.

The workouts are often held inside Memorial Stadium early in the morning. Nebraska’s winter conditioning is nearing its end with spring football quickly approaching. The Huskers will begin off-season practice following the school’s semester break.

Nebraska welcomed 16 transfer additions this semester, including Spindler and Key.

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