As the clock winds down on 2025, Utah and Nebraska are gearing up for a rare New Year’s Eve showdown in the Las Vegas Bowl-a matchup that hasn’t happened since 1992. This time, it’s not in Lincoln, but under the bright lights of Allegiant Stadium, where both teams will look to put an exclamation point on their seasons. For Nebraska, it’s a chance to showcase some of their top defensive talent-players who’ve stuck it out through the ups and downs and are ready to finish strong.
Let’s dive into a few of the Huskers’ highest-graded players, according to Pro Football Focus, who are suiting up and ready to make an impact in Vegas.
LB Javin Wright - PFF Grade: 80.2
If there’s one player who’s been a steady presence all season for Nebraska’s defense, it’s Javin Wright. The linebacker led the team in total tackles with 83 and added a little bit of everything-three passes defended, one interception, and 1.5 sacks. That versatility earned him an All-Big Ten Honorable Mention nod, and it’s easy to see why.
Wright was especially stout against the run, posting an 81.2 grade in that department, while also holding his own in coverage with a 76.0. His standout performance came against Northwestern, where he notched an 86.4 defensive grade and picked off his lone interception of the season. Expect him to be flying around the field come kickoff-he’s the kind of player who sets the tone defensively.
RB Mekhi Nelson - PFF Grade: 79.3
While Emmett Johnson grabbed headlines as Nebraska’s All-American back, redshirt freshman Mekhi Nelson quietly put together a strong season in his own right. Nelson played in nine games and scored one touchdown, but his impact went beyond the box score.
His pass blocking stood out in particular, earning an 81.2 grade-an impressive mark for a young back. He also graded out at 80.1 in run blocking, showing he’s not afraid to do the dirty work.
His best overall game came against Penn State, where he posted a 78.4 grade and looked every bit like a back who could carry more of the load in the future. He’s a name to watch as Nebraska looks to keep Utah’s defense honest.
CB Jamir Conn - PFF Grade: 77.5
In his first season in Lincoln after transferring from Southern Illinois, Jamir Conn made a strong impression in the nickel role. Appearing in nine games, Conn earned a 77.5 defensive grade and brought physicality to Nebraska’s secondary.
His tackling was a particular strength, with an 85.3 grade that ranked near the top among Husker defenders. He also added a solid 79.5 against the run, showing he’s more than just a coverage guy. In a deep defensive backfield, Conn has carved out a role-and against a Utah offense that likes to move its skill players around, his versatility at nickel could be a key factor.
DB DeShon Singleton - PFF Grade: 76.2
A veteran presence in the Nebraska secondary, DeShon Singleton has been a model of consistency. The Louisiana native racked up 70 tackles, defended four passes, came away with two interceptions, and added a sack to his stat line. For the second year in a row, he earned All-Big Ten Defensive Honorable Mention honors.
Singleton’s tackling (84.7) and pass rushing (81.8) grades speak to his all-around game. He’s not just sitting back in coverage-he’s coming downhill, making plays in the box, and getting after the quarterback when called upon.
His best outing came against Penn State, where he logged 10 tackles, a sack, and earned an 88.5 pass rush grade. He’s the kind of experienced defender who can settle a young defense and make the big play when it’s needed most.
As Nebraska gets ready to face a tough, physical Utah team, these are the guys who’ll be counted on to lead the way. They’ve earned their stripes over the course of the season, and now they’ve got one more chance to show what they’re made of-on a national stage, under the lights, with the whole country watching.