Nebraska Football: Meet WR Jordan Westerkamp, the Huskers' New X-Factor

Chances are you've heard about Jordan Westerkamp by now. If not, you've at least heard about the Hail Mary that defeated Northwestern in 2013.

If you still weren't completely familiar with Westerkamp after that, the sophomore wide receiver made himself even harder to ignore after Nebraska's matchup with Florida Atlantic.

Against the Owls, Westerkamp had seven receptions for 125 yards and one touchdown, per ESPN.com. While impressive, it wasn't just Westerkamp's statistics that had heads turning. Instead, it was a single behind-the-back catch.

"It was a crazy play. I ran a corner route, and I saw the ball get tipped, so I put my hands back, and the ball just landed perfectly," Westerkamp said.

That catch did more than just remind people of who he is. It also made it clear that he's Nebraska's newest X-factor.

Before the season began, it was easy to assume the receiving corps would need help after seniors Kenny Bell and Jamal Turner graduate. JUCO players looked to be the best bet to fill any necessary holes. While those players may still be needed for extra depth, Westerkamp is proving that he's ready to take over as the leader of this group.

His attitude is proof of that. When asked which catch was his favorite, the Hail Mary or the behind-the-back, Westerkamp was quick to switch the conversation back to his team.

"I try to not look too much into that stuff," he said. "It was a great team win today. We came out and played well. I just want to contribute as much as possible to the team for our success."

As for Bo Pelini's reaction? He was clear that while it was something new for him, it's to be expected for someone like Westerkamp.

"I've coached a lot of football, but I've never seen that one," Pelini said. "I don't think I've ever seen that. That one's hard to explain. To even have the wherewithall to put your hands back there, it's amazing. I've always said he catches everything that's near him. He showed that right there."

The future definitely looks bright for Westerkamp. In 2013, he had 20 receptions for 283 yards and one touchdown, per ESPN.com. One year later, the sophomore is well on his way to surpassing those numbers.

A major benefit is his friendship with quarterback Tommy Armstrong. While Westerkamp shines on his own, the relationship he has with Armstrong is nothing but a big benefit to his potential as a receiver.

"The kid is my best friend, so we have that chemistry," Westerkamp said. "As the receiver I've obviously got a lot of passes from him. I take a lot of pride because he is my best friend and I never want to let that guy down, so I go out there and play hard for him."

That news has to be good for both coaches and fans. When Bell and Turner leave, the experience and age they take with them will be a loss. However, Westerkamp is proving he has what it takes to step up as the leader the Huskers need.

And from the sound of it, another memorable moment for Westerkamp is only a catch away.

Unless otherwise noted, all quotes were obtained firsthand at Nebraska's postgame press conference on Aug. 30.