Notes from Pat Fitzgerald's press conference: Nebraska

-Fitz was pleased with Trevor Siemian's performance against Minnesota and named Siemian his offensive player of the game: "Our big playmaker was Trevor Siemian. He played his butt off and moved around in the pocket really well."

-Fitz also spoke very highly of Nick VanHoose, who leads the Big Ten with two pass breakups per game: "Last year was good not great, coming off a pretty serious injury. He's worked hard and played more physical in the run game." According to Fitz, VanHoose has to play even better this week going up against a really young, but very talented WR group.

-Fitz thought Chi Chi Ariguzo had his best game of the season against Minnesota.

-Justin Jackson is the first NU back to rush 100 yards in back-to-back games since 2012. Fitz had this to say about the true freshman: "He's gaining confidence. He's getting better and better. He's pretty special with the ball in his hands. Before he can become a complete back, he needs to get better in pass protection. Much better and he knows that."

-Linebacker Collin Ellis is battling the same injury that sidelined him earlier in the year, and is out this week against Nebraska.

-When asked why there are two punters listed on the depth chart, Fitz replied: "We're last in punting in the Big Ten. Can't have an 11-yard punt in crunch time."

-Fitz said: "We have a ton of respect for Nebraska. They're well coached. They play fast and physical in all three phases."