Nebraska QB Jeff Sims (ankle) remains uncertain for NIU game

Nebraska coach Matt Rhule did not commit to quarterback Jeff Sims starting for the 0-2 Cornhuskers against Northern Illinois on Saturday due to a lingering left ankle injury.

"I'm not sure what Jeff's status will be for the game," Rhule told reporters Thursday. "He's progressing. ... I know he feels like he's getting better, he's moving around so we'll how it goes."

Earlier in the week, Rhule declared Sims was the program's starting quarterback despite Sims throwing four interceptions and losing two fumbles in two losses to open the 2023 season.

Sims, a Georgia Tech transfer, has completed 20 of 34 passes for 220 yards and one touchdown in the two games. He has been solid on the ground, rushing for 158 yards, including a 57-yard score against Colorado.

Nebraska's backup options if Sims can't take the field are Heinrich Haarberg and Chubba Purdy. Rhule said that Purdy, the younger brother of NFL quarterback Brock Purdy, has been bothered by a groin injury and isn't 100 percent.