LINCOLN, Neb. —

Nebraska running back Emmett Johnson has burst onto the college football scene this season.

The junior isn’t just the Big Ten’s leading rusher, he’s rewriting Nebraska’s record books and even drawing early Heisman chatter.

But Johnson’s rise goes far beyond what fans see on Saturdays.

His journey is one of drive, resilience, and unwavering support, from not one, but two families who helped shape his life.

“I’m always going to be hungry. I’m always going to want more,” Johnson said. “I just remember what it feels like to not have anything.”

The Minneapolis native grew up under the radar, receiving little recruiting attention in high school. Nebraska was the lone power conference program to offer him a scholarship.

“I wanted a scholarship at a big school. Nebraska was

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