Senior Justin Jackson had a breakthrough season in 2012, starting each of the first 12 games at center. Jackson was the anchor of an offensive line that helped Nebraska lead the Big Ten in both rushing offense and total offense. Jackson's season was cut short when he suffered an ankle injury in the regular-season finale at Iowa. His outstanding play throughout the season was noticed as he was an honorable-mention All-Big Ten choice by the coaches.
A former walk-on, Jackson was one of five players to be awarded a scholarship before the start of the season.