All-Star game provides Cozad's NU recruit with confidence
BY STU POSPISIL
WORLD-HERALD STAFF WRITER
COZAD, Neb. - Jared Crick has firsthand knowledge that he won't be overmatched going to Nebraska from a Class B school.
Cozad's first Husker scholarship recruit in 16 years played in the East Meets West All-America game last month in Orlando. He had four tackles, including two sacks, and two batted-down passes, playing at defensive end.
"It was a great experience," Crick said. "I went down kind of nervous knowing there's going to be the best in the country, and I've never gone against that kind of competition before. I had it in my mind that I was going to work my hardest every day in practice and it turned out big for me.
"I actually got to start and I had a pretty decent game."
Among his all-star game coaches was Ron Lynn, who was on Bill Callahan's staff with the NFL Oakland Raiders.
"He told me I was probably one of the hardest workers in practice and he saw big things ahead for me," Crick said. "He was in the NFL and when he points me out, I just have a great deal of self-confidence. I have lots of confidence going into Lincoln next year.
The 6-foot-6, 245-pound Crick was a two-time all-state player who was second-team All-Nebraska as a senior for the Haymakers. His team made the Class B playoff quarterfinals. He had 68 total tackles and averaged 19 yards a catch as a tight end.
Crick submitted his letter of intent paperwork to NU on Wednesday.
Cozad has its first NU player since Brendan Holbein and Chris Dishman from the Class of 1992 played on the Huskers' national championship teams of the 1990s. Crick said he hasn't met either one.
"I've been wanting to play for Nebraska ever since I can remember," he said. "Knowing that I'm going to be a Husker for sure feels great. It's been a long trip, but I'm really relieved."
Crick has become acquainted with others in the NU recruiting class. He's been on the Internet with quarterback Patrick Witt. He took his official visit with Curenski Gilleylen, played in the all-state game with Demetrius Davis and met Omaha North's Niles Paul a couple of times.
Before leaving for summer workouts, Crick will embark on NU's strength-training and nutrition recommendations. He also will be back on Cozad's track and field team, this year running the 400 meters.
"That will keep me in plenty of shape," he said.
Love headed to Pittsburg State
COZAD, Neb. - Cozad senior Eric Love, the first rusher in Nebraska with back-to-back 2,000-yard seasons in the 11-man game, will go to Division II Pittsburg State.
Rick Love, Eric's father, said the Gorillas will have only two returning scholarship running backs. Their Harlon Hill finalist, Germaine Race, completed his eligibility last fall.