In the storied history of Nebraska football, the number 99 has adorned the jerseys of two fierce defenders who left a lasting impact on the program: Neil Smith and Barry Turner. In Dave Feit’s “Greatest Huskers by the Numbers” series, number 99 holds special significance for the defensive line — a position synonymous with toughness, dominance, and relentless pursuit of the quarterback.
Neil Smith: A Dominant Force
Neil Smith is the most iconic Husker to wear number 99. Playing at Nebraska from 1984 to 1987, Smith emerged as one of the most dominant defensive ends in college football. Standing at 6-foot-4 with a wingspan that seemed to stretch forever, Smith combined rare athleticism with raw power. His senior season in 1987 was a tour de force — he recorded 10 sacks, 17 tackles for loss, and was named Big Eight Defensive Player of the Year. He earned All-America honors and became a key figure in Nebraska’s vaunted Blackshirt defense.
Smith’s impact extended beyond college. He was selected second overall in the 1988 NFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs, where he continued to terrorize quarterbacks for more than a decade. A six-time Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion with the Denver Broncos, Smith finished his professional career with over 100 sacks. Yet despite his NFL success, Smith is still revered in Lincoln for his leadership, motor, and the pride he brought to wearing number 99.
His legacy lives on as a symbol of what it means to be a Nebraska defensive lineman: relentless, physical, and team-first.
Barry Turner: Underrated but Undeniable
While Neil Smith may be the flashier name, Barry Turner also brought honor to the number 99 jersey. Turner arrived at Nebraska in 2005 as a highly touted recruit and quickly made an impression. As a true freshman, he racked up six sacks — a strong start that pointed to his pass-rushing potential.
Injuries slowed Turner’s progress in the years that followed, but his perseverance and work ethic stood out. He was part of the Huskers’ defensive line rotation during the transitional years under Bill Callahan and Bo Pelini. Though not as dominant statistically as Smith, Turner embodied the grit and resilience Nebraska fans admire. He contributed valuable depth and experience, serving as a mentor for younger players during his time in Lincoln.
Turner’s NFL career was brief, but like many Huskers who came before and after, his impact was measured not only by stats, but by the example he set on and off the field.
The Legacy of 99
In Dave Feit’s “Greatest Huskers by the Numbers,” the number 99 is more than just a jersey — it’s a badge of honor for warriors in the trenches. Neil Smith brought national acclaim to the number, setting a standard for excellence that remains unmatched. Barry Turner, though less celebrated, added to the legacy with perseverance, toughness, and quiet leadership.
Together, they represent two eras of Husker football. One rose to stardom and NFL greatness; the other served with heart during a time of change. Both wore 99 with pride — and both are part of Nebraska’s rich football legacy.
