Rose is looking to build on what he had going at the end of his redshirt freshman season -- emerging in the second half of the season to start the final five games, and those 17 tackles against Iowa (the most by a Husker last season). His 57 tackles were the most ever by an NU freshman.
Experience is the biggest thing Rose took from last season.
“I felt like last year we were trying to find a rotation. We were trying to find the right fit and the right chemistry,” Rose said. “Luckily for me I was able to be out there for the last six or seven games and starting and playing 60 or 70 snaps on average. That really propelled me into the winter, and realizing that I’m going to be given the first opportunity to go out there and perform with the first string, so I need to make sure I’m in shape and I’ve gotten more explosive and faster.”
Rose may need to hold off guys behind him, such as senior Trevor Roach and sophomore Josh Banderas, but he won’t concern himself with daily moves on the depth chart at this point. Pelini has said this spring he feels really good about the linebacker spot.
Linebackers coach Ross Els is creating lots of competition at the position, and that bodes well for the defense. Rose is still a young guy, but is trying to be a leader.
“I feel like anyone has leadership capability in them. I think it just takes certain situations to bring it out of people,” Rose said. “Fortunately for me, I was able to start a couple games last year. You got to be a leader at the MIKE spot; you got to be vocal and willing to show not only what you’re saying, but how you’re carrying yourself. I feel like right now I have to step up.”
