As the Nebraska football team prepares to host Illinois this Saturday, the Huskers defense is coming off an inspired performance in NU’s 30-23 win over Penn State. 

Defensive coordinator Erik Chinander met with members of the media over video conference yesterday.  Chinander said his unit “has to be a little better on third down, but we’re taking the ball away right now and scoring points for our team.” 

He also confirmed coaches handed out Blackshirts to some defensive players this week, but wouldn’t name which players got them.  “The Blackshirts mean more to me than social media, and Twitter doesn’t have to know about everything,” Chinander said.  

Saturday’s kickoff for the Huskers’ game against Illinois is set for 11 a.m.  The pre-game starts at 6 on News Talk 900 KJSK and will be joined at 10:30 on 93.5 The Hawk.