Nebraska running back Jamal Rule named Big Ten Freshman of the Week

A breakout debut netted Jamal Rule more recognition Monday as the Big Ten Freshman of the Week. The Nebraska running back — nicknamed 'The Terminator' by teammates for how he finishes plays — earned the honor following a three-touchdown Saturday stuffed with highlight moments in the Huskers' 49-21 win over Ohio. The six-foot, 215-pounder touched the ball 17 times on 31 offensive snaps totaling 169 yards. Entering the game as the short-yardage back and part of a three-way starting tandem with Mekhi Nelson and Isaiah Mozee, the Charlotte product carried 15 times for 122 yards with a pair of scores. He caught two balls for 47 more, including a leak-out catch-and-run to the house from 24 yards out. 'I like the explosive nature,' NU coach Matt Rhule said Saturday. 'I like the way he carried the football.' Quarterback TJ Lateef was named Big Ten Co-Freshman of the Week last season after his first career start at UCLA. Rule — quickly becoming a fan favorite for his big smiles, open interviews and love for bowling along with his dynamic moves — said Saturday he was overcome with emotion before a game now on record for another reason. 'It was great, unreal,' Rule said of his first touchdown. 'It was good to see all of the fans happy for me, seeing my brothers on the sideline happy for me. It was great, it was crazy.'