Freshman QB Martinez finally shows flaws as No. 6 Nebraska beats South Dakota St. 17-6

Martinez struggles in Neb’s 17-6 win over Jacks

LINCOLN, Neb. — Rex Burkhead and Kyler Reed scored on consecutive series in the first half, but sixth-ranked Nebraska turned in an uninspired performance in a 17-3 win over South Dakota State on Saturday night.

The Cornhuskers (4-0) are off to their best start since 2005, but backups who figured to get lots of playing time against the Jackrabbits of the FCS watched while most of Nebraska’s starters went the distance.

Redshirt freshman Taylor Martinez, coming off three straight 100-yard rushing games, fumbled his first snap, threw two interceptions, was wildly off the mark with other passes and was flagged for taunting. He finished with 75 yards on 13 carries but was just 6-of-14 passing for 140 yards.

Kyle Minett gashed the Huskers for 113 yards on 28 carries for the Jackrabbits (0-3).

Nebraska got a huge performance from linebacker Lavonte David, who was credited with 19 tackles and two pass breakups.