Rahmir Johnson injury update: Matt Rhule reveals Nebraska RB's status vs. Ohio State

Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule provided injury updates on running back Rahmir Johnson and defensive back DeShon Singleton for Saturday’s game against Ohio State during his media availability on Thursday.

Both players were injured in last week’s loss to Indiana and were entered into concussion protocol.

“Rahmir is out and DeShon will play,” Matt Rhule said.

Rahmir Johnson has been a key part of the Nebraska offense this season, both as a runner and receiver. He has 38 carries for 153 yards on the year and has also caught 19 passes for 165 yards and a touchdown.

Matt Rhule discussed during the press conference what the loss of Rahmir Johnson means for Nebraska. In addition to contributing on offense, he also returns kicks for the Cornhuskers.

“Yea, you know, Rahmir’s a valuable player in every part of it,” Rhule said. “You know, some of the big guys, Gabe [Ervin Jr.] and Dante [Dowdell] now have to step up in some of the third-down situations, which is good because Ohio State has an excellent pass rush but also excellent blitzers.

“So having bigger men in there in some ways is a good thing this week.”

As for DeShon Singleton, the Cornhuskers received good news about their starting safety. Having Singleton available is big as he is fourth on the team with 32 tackles.

Singleton also has 1 tackles for loss, 1 pass breakup and a forced fumble.

This is a big opportunity for Nebraska to bounce back after a tough loss at Indiana last weekend. The Cornhuskers were blown out by the Hoosiers, falling 56-7.

Rhule said that he likes the way his team has responded this week.

“It’s been a good week,” Rhule said. “Guys, as you would expect, battled back from a disappointing week last week. We’ll have to get in the game and do it in the game. We’ll see, but it’s been a good week.”