October 28 2026
Halloween night under the lights at Memorial Stadium is almost here. Ahead of the Huskers' blackout game against Washington, Dr. Scott Strasburger returned to the Carriker Chronicles to talk with host Adam Carriker about the health side of Husker football. As a Nebraska Football Hall of Famer, a two-time Academic All-American, and the lead orthopaedic surgeon at Sagewell Orthopaedics, Dr. Strasburger brings a rare perspective to the conversation as both a former Blackshirt and a surgeon.
High Ankle Sprains Are a Different Injury
With running back Jamal Rule dealing with a high ankle sprain, Adam asked why these injuries are so tricky. Dr. Strasburger explained that most ankle sprains are simple lateral sprains where the foot rolls inward, often after stepping on another player's shoe. A high ankle sprain is a different injury altogether. It comes from a rotational force, which creates far more trauma to the ligaments connecting the lower leg bones. Recovery reflects that difference. These injuries can last four to eight weeks and sometimes up to 12. In some cases, surgeons operate within the first few days to stabilize the torn ligament and support more secure healing.
Anthony Colandrea: A True Difference-Maker
Quarterback Anthony Colandrea has led the Huskers in rushing in three of their first four Big Ten games. Adam asked whether that workload raises concerns with five tough games still ahead. Dr. Strasburger's answer was direct: the team has to do what it takes to win. He called Colandrea a true difference-maker, comparing him to Eric Crouch and other great dual-threat quarterbacks in Nebraska history. He also noted that this time of year, injuries start to pile up, making depth along the offensive line more critical every week.
Why Offensive Linemen Wear Knee Braces
Offensive line is one of football's highest-risk positions, with legs, knees, and ankles getting tied up on nearly every snap. Dr. Strasburger explained that knee braces are specifically designed to protect the medial collateral ligament, or MCL, on the inside of the knee. MCL injuries often happen when a lineman's foot is planted, his leg is fairly straight, and another player falls into the outside of his knee. The braces aren't a perfect solution and may slow a player down slightly, but Dr. Strasburger believes they're worthwhile because the research shows they do help cut down on MCL injuries.
Concussion Protocols Have Come a Long Way
Both Adam and Dr. Strasburger remember a time when returning from a head injury came down to one question: "How do you feel?" 🏥 Today, athletes complete baseline cognitive and reaction testing before the season even starts. After a concussion, they must return to or near that baseline before playing again, and then prove they can perform on the field by working through a series of steps. As Dr. Strasburger put it, until every step is complete, the athlete does not return. That standard is non-negotiable.
Lessons That Reach Beyond the Stadium
You don't need to wear a Husker jersey to roll an ankle, strain a knee, or take a hard fall. Weekend athletes, high school players, and active adults face many of the same injuries. Getting the right answers early can make a real difference in how you heal and how quickly you get back to what you love.
At Sagewell Orthopaedics, Dr. Strasburger and the team take the time to listen and build a plan around your goals and your life. It's what they mean when they say this is where wisdom meets wellness.
Watch Dr. Strasburger's full interview on the Carriker Chronicles: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=POHfWmf-ANk
Learn more or schedule a visit: https://sagewellmed.com/contact
Go Big Red!
