The competition between junior Tanner Lee and redshirt freshman Patrick O'Brien appears to be neck-and-neck as Nebraska approaches its annual spring game on Saturday. Cornhuskers coach Mike Riley told the Lincoln Journal Star last week that he wanted to name a starter soon after the spring ended, which means we likely won't be in suspense too long before we find out his decision. Still, there is a lot to process because whoever earns the job can put Nebraska in position to rise up the Big Ten West this season and beyond.
Lee has experience in a different system and made 19 starts at Tulane before he transferred to Nebraska. But O'Brien could have more upside as a potential four-year starter if he takes control of the position. O'Brien was one of the top quarterbacks in the country out of high school and participated in the prestigious Elite 11 summer camp in 2015. Nebraska offensive coordinator Danny Langsdorf hasn't tipped his hand but has complimented both players -- O'Brien for his arm strength and Lee for his quick release. If nothing else, the competition will make both players better in their quest to replace longtime starter Tommy Armstrong Jr.
