How many chances will Nebraska give QB Jeff Sims?

Over the past two weeks, Sims has shown a massive inability to read a defense and make decisions. Perhaps most importantly, he’s proved so far this season that he simply can’t maintain possession of the ball. His mistake-ridden game Saturday hurt his team both offensively and defensively. While the Nebraska defense looked stout for much of the game, there were instances where players looked flat-out gassed — seemingly a result of abruptly failing drives. 

Although head coach Matt Rhule seemed to have all the faith in the world in his transfer QB at the beginning of the season, his recent performance suggests the tenure of Sims as starter may not be unlimited. If Nebraska is to eventually move in a different direction, though, where will they go? Haarberg would be the clear favorite to take the reins of the offense, but he clearly hasn’t shown enough in practice to earn himself a shot, being redshirted the last two years. Does the lack of experience behind him allow Sims a longer look as the starter? 

The Huskers will take their newfound 0-2 record back to Memorial Stadium for a pair of home nonconference games against Northern Illinois and Louisiana Tech, both teams that should pose no problem for Nebraska. If Sims remains the starter for now, as expected, he’ll have a great opportunity to regain some confidence in his passing game before resuming Big Ten play when Michigan comes to town at the end of the month. Will Sims be able to right the ship before it’s too late?