There has just been a lot of negativity about Barthel and the backs. By my memory, a number of Frost recruited backs had higher service rankings than Rule and certainly Nelson. Yet it is those kids that are giving hints of play that compare to Burkhead and Helu. Barthel has the kids ready to play.
I don't hate Barthel like some on here so. I actually my think he's a good developer when it comes to RBs. I think the problem I have with him is that he doesn't recruit highly rated RBs well. Nothing wrong with getting the most out of guys but if you sign more talented guys AND get the most out of them you have better players.
Even with Rule it was a 4 star guy we missed and Rule was next. I liked his film also. He was strong and physical. But I'll be honest he didn't show the kinda speed he's shown so far. He's clearly gotten faster since he's been in Lincoln and he's still growing .
Guys like Ives and Booth never should've been recruited to Nebraska. Good athletes but not Power 4 RBs. Definitely not the kind you need if you wanna win the BIG
Wasn't Barthel the one who also had Kewan Lacy committed before he flipped for Ole Miss? I think he was only a 3 star as well when Barthel was on him and then he blew up.
The kid in this years class remind me a lot of Rule. Physical and strong but I think a bit more elusive and shifty. His HS film speed looks about like Rules as well. But like I said I think Rule has gotten faster since he's gotten to Lincoln.
Matt Rhule and EJ detractors don't wanna give Barthel any credit for development of Emmett either. But that's another story.
For fans Barthel is an enigma. The ones who don't like him won't give him credit for Nelson or Rule either lol. People just wanna see some more stars next to those names. I get it because more times than not those guys are more talented.
Holla