The redshirt freshman from Youngstown, Ohio, returned the opening kickoff 40 yards at Kansas to help Nebraska score on its first offensive possession for only the second time all season. Marlowe, a backup receiver from Bo Pelini's Youngstown high school, has returned eight kickoffs for a 24.2-yard average while sharing the duties with junior Niles Paul.
Q: What did you see on the kickoff return?
A: Coach (Tim) Beck set up a nice scheme for us, and I just followed Niles as my lead blocker and a lot of things opened up for me. I tried to get back across the field to make it a bigger play, but got tripped up from behind.
Q: Did you take some extra satisfaction in realizing that you helped get things off to a good start?
A: It was definitely a good feeling knowing that I sparked the offense a little bit, put them in good position, and then Niles and Roy (Helu) made a couple big plays. It was good to get off to a quick 7-0 start.
Q: Between splitting the returns and the defense not allowing many scores, is there extra pressure to make the most of a rare chance?
A: Obviously, with the Blackshirt defense, we're only giving up about 11 points a game. It's kind of mixed emotions: I want to get on the field and make a big play, but it's fine with me if I just go once a day and we shut them out.
Q: You returned kicks in high school, but how much different is it now?
A: In high school, you just kind of get it and go, and you can cross the field or do whatever you want to just try and make a play. But in college you really do have to follow your blockers, because kickoff teams are coached up so well. If you don't follow your blockers, they're going to hit you inside the 20.
Q: Are you surprised to be getting this opportunity so soon in your Husker career?
A: I figured at some point I would, but I didn't think it would pop up this early. With Rex (Burkhead) getting hurt, I kind of popped in there and I've made a few nice returns. It's just fun. I'm just happy I got the opportunity.
— Rich Kaipust
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