For the second straight year, some Nebraska football players took part in a dunk contest during a basketball game. The crowd at Pinnacle Bank Arena saw a show – especially when Heinrich Haarberg stepped up. This exciting event took place during halftime of Thursday’s game against Illinois, where the atmosphere was electric, and fans were eager to see their favorite players showcase their skills.
### Haarberg steals the show
Haarberg electrified the fans in attendance, throwing the ball off the backboard before executing a stunning windmill dunk. This jaw-dropping performance not only thrilled the crowd but also helped him clinch the title, unseating last year’s champion, Jeremiah Charles. With six Huskers participating, including Emmett Johnson, Connor Schutt, Quinn Clark, and Dasan McCullough, the contest was a true display of athleticism and talent. Yet, it was Haarberg – the quarterback-turned-tight end – who ultimately stole the spotlight.
### Transitioning positions
Haarberg’s journey on the football field has been nothing short of remarkable. He was part of Nebraska’s rotating quarterback room during the 2023 season, serving as a backup to Dylan Raiola. However, as the season progressed, Haarberg began making the transition to tight end. This shift could be pivotal for him, especially with head coach Matt Rhule indicating that Haarberg would still be available at quarterback for the Pinstripe Bowl, if needed.
### Coach Rhule’s confidence
Rhule has been vocal about his admiration for Haarberg’s athleticism and football IQ. “He’s probably [one of] the best athletes I’ve ever had a chance to coach,” Rhule said in December. “He’s big, he’s explosive, he’s athletic. He can catch the ball, he’s really smart.” This versatility is crucial as Haarberg prepares for his new role. With Dana Holgorsen returning as offensive coordinator after taking the reins late in 2024, there’s a sense of optimism surrounding Haarberg’s potential success in his new position.
### A promising season ahead
Despite serving in a backup role, Haarberg still made his mark in 2024, appearing in 12 games. He threw for 101 yards while adding 102 rushing yards and a touchdown on the ground. As he transitions to tight end, the Cornhuskers are gearing up for a promising season, with Raiola set to enter his sophomore year in Lincoln. This could be an exciting opportunity for Haarberg to showcase his skills in a new light.
### Nebraska’s resurgence
The Cornhuskers are on the rise, having made their first bowl game since 2016 and securing their first bowl victory since 2015, finishing the season with a record of 7-6 in Rhule’s second year as head coach. The energy surrounding the program is palpable, and fans are eager to see how the team will build on this momentum in the upcoming season.
### Active in the transfer portal
This offseason, Nebraska has been active in the transfer portal, welcoming 15 new players to campus. This influx of talent could play a significant role in the Cornhuskers’ quest to enhance their performance on the field. With Haarberg’s transition to tight end and the new additions to the roster, there’s a sense of excitement about what the future holds for Nebraska football.
### Looking ahead
As the Cornhuskers prepare for the next season, the focus will be on how well Haarberg adapts to his new position and how the team integrates its new players. With Rhule at the helm and a talented roster, Nebraska is poised to make a statement in college football. Fans are left wondering: could this be the year the Cornhuskers return to their former glory?
In a world where college football is constantly evolving, the story of Heinrich Haarberg stands out. His journey from quarterback to tight end, combined with his impressive athleticism and the support of his coaching staff, sets the stage for an exciting chapter in Nebraska football. With the right pieces in place, the Cornhuskers are ready to take on the challenges ahead and make their mark on the gridiron once again.
