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The BIG 12 - review and preview

2006-10-03T12:03:00.000-07:00

A couple of teams had last weekend off, a couple more played non-conference opponents and the rest began conference play...this week, everybody plays a conference game. Results from this past weekend kind'a shuffles the ranking I previously had for the conference. However . . .

Texas is still ranked at the top. Their scrimmage with SHSU allowed a ton of players to get a little game experience but this week, Mack gets to prove he can beat Oklahoma without Vince Young.
texas 28 - OU 19

Oklahoma now occupies the second spot in the conference and used the off week to try and get QB Thompson ready for the Red River Shoot Out. To no avail -
See above

Texas Tech comes in at number 3 this week after their comeback win at Texas A&M. This week they host Missouri in what will be a very interesting game to watch, not only to see if the Tigers are for real but to also see if Tech QB - receiver duo have really arrived. They have -
Tech 37 - MU 28

Missouri is my number 4 team this week. At present, they are the only undefeated team in the conference but after giving up 373 yards to Colorado, well at present they're undefeated -
See above

NEBRASKA falls to 5th this week. It took overtime at home to defeat Kansas-?? Somewhere, Tom Osborne isn't smiling. I look for the Huskers to right some wrongs this week -
NU 42 - ISU 28

Kansas is 6th this week. I've heard it said that KU would have defeated the Huskers last week if the KU secondary coach had a clue about pass defense. However, if the Husker defensive staff had clue about defending Kansas, it would have NEVER had to go into overtime for the Huskers to win-!!
This week, Kansas will entertain the Aggies of Texas A&M and, if Mangino can get the boys up from their huge disappointment of losing to the Huskers, they'll beat TA&M in a close one -
KU 35 - TA&M 31

Texas A&M comes in at 7th. Heartbeaking loss this past weekend doesn't get any better this weekend and doesn't bode well for Coach Franchione. Rumor has it that the Aggies MUST do very well the rest of the year or it's 'Goodbye Fran and Hello Kragthorpe'. Now, I'm very impressed with Tulsa'a Kragthorpe and hope he doesn't get snatched away so I've got to root for TA&M - but it ain't gonna help this weekend -
see above

Iowa State is currently my number 8. Gritty comeback last weekend deserves some credit but, like I said before, Nebraska will right some wrongs this weekend.
see above

Oklahoma State is my number 9. Defensive Coach Bedford has got to get things turned around or the Cowboys will have a hard time, even against the KSU Wildcats - this could be a fun game to watch also . . aww, probably not
OSU 31 - KSU 20

Colorado may be number 10 this week but appear to be better than their record shows.. A little salve for their wounds comes to Boulder this week in the form of Baylor.
CU 27 - BU 19

Baylor comes in at number 11 after they finally got one to bounce their way against KSU but that good old winning feeling evaporates in Boulder.
see above

AND, Kansas State brings up the rear (that would be #12 for you in North Platte) - Is coach panicking by going with a true freshman-? Aw well, after this weekend, they'll still be on the bottom.

Note to File: Nebraska is leading the conference in Total Offense, averaging 480 YPG while the defense is 9th in Total Defense - - - ??? Begs the question - WHAT DA HELL IS WRONG-???
Actually, I think most of us have a pretty good idea - - -??

USC Trojans

2006-09-14T07:07:00.000-07:00

Leading up to the USC game, many Nebraska fans are wondering just what can be done to stop this offense. Many fans are wondering if we do anything against this defense. And how in the world will Nebraska be able to compete with the USC Trojans?

First off, the Trojans are without LenDale White, Reggie Bush, and Matt Lienhart. But they are "reloading" with John David Booty. They do have a decent backfield and if we look at what they did to Arkansas, then we can see they are clearly the powerhouse dynasty, correct? Well, not entirely. Remember that Houston Nutt is exactly what his name proclaims him to be. He wanted a high school player so bad, that he made this kid's high school coach the Offensive Coordinator. So Nutt then allows him to run this "high school" offense in a IA level, without Mustain starting. The results could not have been more disastrous. (unless of course you are a Colorado player). So USC did good against a "high school" offense. And let's face it, out of the 100+ NCAA Div IA teams today, I am going to say that a good 95% of those teams could have beaten Arkansas that day.

But USC has talent. And they also have talent that is injured. Fullback Brandon Hancock sustained a season-ending knee injury in practice August 14, safety Josh Pinkard sustained a season-ending knee injury in the Trojans' season-opening 50-14 victory at Arkansas on September 2 and now nose tackle Sedrick Ellis' right knee locked and underwent arthroscopic surgery Tuesday. Tailback Chauncey Washington may not see the field this weekend. And their are rumors of a CB that may not start for the Trojans. But make no mistake, the Trojans will be ready.

All you have to do to see that is look at the head coach, Pete Carroll. While he may seem calm and collected at times, he really is a fun-loving guy. He expects many things from his team, but above all, he expects them to execute, and win. An outcast from the NFL, Carroll has made the Trojans into a team to be respected. In all of his games against former NFL head coaches, Carroll is perfect. He has not lost to former NFL head coaches. But it is not just that either. USC has a swagger now. The last time that was seen was when Robinson was in his prime. They have done a great job in the Pac 10. However, against Big XII schools, Carroll is 2-3, losing to K State twice, and Texas last year. So Carroll is going to be ready, and he is going to get his team ready. Although it looks as if this game is going to go USC's way, history has proven that rankings in a poll do not determine the winners of a game.

Let me take you back to 1996. Nebraska had just played in the past three National Championship games, and won 2 of those games. Nebraska had multiple award winners and was considered to reload, not rebuild. Sure the Touchdown Tommie era had ended, but Nebraska just reloads. Nebraska had played an overmatched Michigan State team and beat them very handily, 55-14. Then the Huskers were to go to ASU and play them in two weeks. Now this ASU team, with the core almost entirely intact, had lost to Nebraska the previous year by a score of 77-28. Local Phoenix stations were welcoming the Huskers to town, the fans they bring to a game means a lot of money to local businesses. And many stations wanted to see how far the Devils had come since last year and the maturity of one Jake Plummer. In fact, local Phoenix stations were saying that this Sun Devils team was good enough to compete for the Pac 10 title, and would only lose by a little bit to the vaunted Huskers. Sure the Devils would get beat this year, but not by the huge difference from the previous year. Nebraska has a "bye" week to prepare for this ASU game. And ASU played a small patsy named North Texas beating them 52-7. Then came Nebraska. Nebraska had a week off, ASU did not. Nebraska was ranked in the top 5 in the polls, ASU was ranked #17. Kickoff happened on September 21, 1996. And as Nebraska marched up and down the field, ASU matched them and outplayed them. In fact, ASU made Nebraska go back to Lincoln with a big fat goose egg. The Sun Devils not only won, they shut out the Huskers. A team that did not have any hope to win the game, and it came away with a shutout.

USC is a 2 time National Championships winner, playing in the last three national championships. They just lost their starting QB and the backfield to graduation, and have been pronounced as "reloading". They played an overmatched team and then had a week off. Maybe history is going to repeat itself.

USC Preview: Keys to the Game

2006-09-13T10:52:00.000-07:00

*What might USC do against Nebraska's offense? In a word: blitz. They usually run Tampa 2, but that would seem to play into Nebraska's hands to some degree. I'm afraid USC will stack the line of scrimmage, try to stuff the running game, and make Taylor beat them over the top while trying to force mistakes. While completing over 70% this season, Taylor has proven he's accurate when not pressured. I don't see why USC won't test Nebraska's offensive line with pressure and limit Taylor's time in the pocket.

*Nebraska's best chance to win this game is to run the football, controlling the clock and negating USC's speed and athleticism. I think USC would rather have Taylor hit a few big plays than have Nebraska rush for 200 or more yards.

*If Nebraska does get behind, will Callahan stay with the run? Nebraska would have lost the Alamo Bowl if Callahan hadn't gone back to Ross running the ball. I hope he doesn't give up on the run if USC gets a lead.

*If USC does start stacking the line and blitzing, Nebraska's best formation will be the trips set. Against a pressure defense, Nebraska should be able to get outside with that toss play or break a few big runs off the trap. More importantly, with USC in man coverage, those shallow crossing patterns will be available for Taylor.

*Callahan is probably anticipating zone. If USC start playing pressure defense, I hope Callahan will adapt and not continue to call 5 and 7-step drops as he did against Missouri and Oklahoma last season. It could get Taylor killed.

*Will Nebraska change of some of the tendencies USC is sure to have noticed or has Callahan been setting the Trojans up?

*Will Purify provide Nebraska with a true deep threat to counter press coverage? Is he ready for that so soon?

*With USC's speed on defense, will Nebraska try to run the ball with power-type running plays or will they attempt to use zone-blocking (which seems to be what Callahan favors).

*And, of course, will Coz:

A) Revert to his favored "off-man" coverage and allow USC's giant receivers to torture our smaller DB's for somewhere between 40 and 50 points?

B) Outsmart himself with some wacky (and ill-advised) defense as he did against Missouri last season?

C) Play mostly zone to protect his DB's while pressuring Booty into occasional mistakes with zone-blitzes? (My idea. )

*Will our coaches adapt their gameplan if it proves to be ineffective or if USC comes out with something unexpected? This is the one thing I haven't really seen this staff do yet.

*Finally, if Nebraska does lose...will we see a return of the subtle hints by some of the coaches that it was the players' fault?

Week 3 around the BIG 12

2006-09-12T14:11:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I missed week 2 while out on vacation. I know a good blogger/reporter would never let a thing like vacation get in the road of his/her report but don't confuse me with being one of those.
The BIG 12's third week of the 2006 season would be called 'A BIGGY' around these parts. I mean, so far the BIG 12 has a pretty salty 20-4 record but it wouldn't be a shock to see the conference go 4 - 8 this weekend. After the Texas 'deer in the headlights' performance last week, the BIG 12 needs this week to improve its national image.

In my opinion, the only 'locks' this weekend would be Oklahoma State (home vs Florida Atlantic), Missouri (@ New Mexico), Texas (@ Rice) and Texas A&M (home vs Army).

KU kicks off BIG 12 action Friday night at Toledo. After barely surviving at home against Louisiana Monroe, I don't think they'll survive this visit.
TOLEDO 21 - KU 17

KSU is at home this week, playing Marshall. The Wildcats win by ONE POINT over 1-AA Illinois State and then stomp Florida Atlantic 45-0 ??? Is coach Prince starting to build a team or is Florida Atlantic that pathetic-??
KSU 31 - MARSHALL 20

Oklahoma visits what may be the loudest stadium in the country - Autzen Stadium at Oregon. Oklahoma still appears surprisingly unsettled on defense and Oregon should have a huge chip on their shoulder after losing TWICE to Oklahoma last year-!!
OREGON 24 - OKLAHOMA 20

Colorado -? at home against Arizona State - this ain't gonna be pretty-!
ASU 35 - CU 10

Texas Tech visits Texas Christian and TCU is still smarting over last years 70 - 35 whupping at Lubbock while the Red Raiders needed overtime to beat UTEP last week - this is a 'PICK'EM' - but I'm predicting an upset -
TCU 31 - TT 24

Baylor will be at Washington State on Saturday - although WSU just hasn't been the same since the days of Coach Mike Price, they should still have the edge at home.
WSU 28 - BU 17

Iowa State is fortunate to be 2-0 after rather disappointing performances at home and this week they visit arch-rival Iowa.
IOWA 24 - ISU 10

And finally, NEBRASKA visits the Trojans of Southern California. After two impressive performances against teams that aren't anywhere near USC's capability, this will be the week we Husker fans find out how close the program is to being near the level Coach Osborne left it in. My heart tells me we're close but my mind says there isn't ANY PROGRAM in the country near, let alone equal, to what Coach Osborne left us. At the same time, I haven't seen enough of USC to make me think they are at the level they were over the past 2 or 3 years - but could this could be the week they 'put it together'-?? I don't think so but it may well be enough to win on Saturday. USC has had 2 weeks to prepare and Nebraska's history is not that good when visiting teams that have 2 weeks of preparation time. Well, it's time to change history-
UPSET NU 35 - USC 27
How's that for improving the Huskers AND the BIG 12's image-?? See there, I let my heart do my thinkin' fer me again-!!

Nicholls State Colonels

2006-09-08T07:34:00.000-07:00

The next game coming up is Nicholls State Colonels, a IAA school from Louisiana. Trying to get information is harder than I thought. Nicholls State is located in Thibodaux, Lafourche Parish, Louisiana. So I looked for the local paper on line, and it did have a sports section, but nothing for the specific purpose of Nicholls State. They had an NFL section, New Orleans Saints, LSU and other college football. But I was able to manage some information on this team.

Last week, Nicholls State shut down Southern Arkansas 35-0. However, Arkansas State is a Div II school, so they were facing an overmatched opponent. So now they are going to face the Huskers, who should be able to out-power them. But here are some interesting tidbits of information on Nicholls State. According to their official sports site, they have never won on September 9th. They have played five times on this date, and lost all five times. They are also 1-13 when facing IA opponents. They did beat Arkansas State in 2001. So this quote came from the head coach of Nicholls State: "We just want to put a good product on the field and be competitive with Nebraska." But that is just what he should say. So how is Nicholls State preparing for Nebraska? X-box.

Yes, that is right, I read from the paper in Thibodaux that since Montana State did that before they beat Colorado, that Nicholls State is using the same method. The kids are playing X-Box pitting the virtual Huskers against the virtual Colonels. They said that they can beat the Huskers on the game, so they know they can do it on the field. Which is somewhat good. But somewhat bad. Sure Colorado lost to Montana State and K State had a hard time putting away Illinois State, but those teams are having major changes. Nicholls State players are going to see that you can not just push the "reset" button or change sides real quick, or change the AI level mid-game.

But what about the actual Nichols State team, not the virtual one. In last weeks game, they only allowed Southern Arkansas into field goal range once, but never allowed them to score. They allowed 200 total yards on 67 plays while racking up 261 total yards on 51 plays. Out of the 261 yards, they had 229 from the rushing game, or at least that is what their sports site claims. According to the NCAA Stat Site, they had 195 rushing yards and 66 passing yards. Either way, they still run an option and pass second. So as long as the Huskers can contain that, they should be ok. But one of the most telling stats is the score. The offense did not score all of the TDs or even drive for all of the TDs. One TD came from a bad snap to the punter where the Colonels fell on the ball, in the third quarter, Southern Arkansas had another bad snap on the punt, it was fumbled, and recovered on the 1 yard line. They did have three drives that were good drives, and took up time, but they should have a harder time against the Huskers.

But after reading that the Colonels are practicing on the real field and the virtual field, I think the Huskers should be able to put them away in the first half. And I am hoping it is enough to get Zac to rest the entire second half, get Ganz in there for some plays and get some other players to really get some time in there. This should be a win for the Huskers, but they still need to prove it on the field. And just so Nicholls State players know, I had my son play Nebraska against the Nicholls State, and he won. And he is seven years old. Maybe you should be putting in more time on the field. . . .

Week 1 In the Books; USC awaits Huskers

2006-09-06T12:34:00.000-07:00

What do we know after the first week of the college football season? Several things, actually:

-Nebraska, at the very least, is a lot better than it was at the beginning of last season. After watching Nebraska struggle with Maine and not be able to run consistently on a Division 1AA team to open last season, I was sincerely worried about a repeat of 2004. LaTech, which beat Fresno State late last season, is a legit 1A team and a much better opening opponent than Maine was last season.

-Callahan's committment to running the ball appears to be the real deal, but I already suspected as much after watching the spring game.

-The offensive line, while still not dominating or superior, is light-years ahead of last season.

-I'm not usually a big proponent of the "running back by committee approach". However, after watching the Huskers wear down a decent LaTech team with its four-headed monster, I'm think it might work out nicely. All four appear deserving of playing time and all four bring a little something different. If it were up to me, I'd have the backs in this order: Glenn, Lucky, Jackson, Wilson. If the game were on the line and the Huskers needed 4 yards...I'd probably give the ball to either Glenn or Jackson.

-It was nice to see Matt Herian back. He didn't look quite as explosive as he used to, but he still looked like one of the best tight ends in the country.

-It was not nice to see so many dropped passes. Zac Taylor could have been well over 300 yards with over 80% without the drops.

-Nebraska's secondary looked shaky at best. The defensive tackles are not yet up to the standard set last season. The corps of defensive ends is possibly the best in the nation, and the linebackers are as deep as talented as almost any team.

-I hope Cozgrove was holding something back against LaTech. If he elects to use the "off-man" coverage he's so fond of against USC in two weeks, I strongly suspect Nebraska might have to score 40 or 50 points to win. Personally, I'd like to see Nebraska use a zone-blitz type scheme against USC.

-If you didn't watch USC against Arkansas on Saturday, be warned: USC still has plenty of talent even with Bush and Leinart gone. USC's receivers will be an absolutely matchup nightmare for Nebraska's secondary.

-USC gloom and doom aside, Nebraska looked like a 9 or 10-win team against LaTech. When you consider the problems in the North Division (particularly at K-state and Colorado), Nebraska should be able to win the division easily this season. That even takes into account a possible loss on the road at Iowa State. The Cyclones have a brutal conference schedule that includes Oklahoma and Texas.

Week 1 Thoughts

2006-09-04T09:10:00.000-07:00

As we come up to the Monday night game between Florida State and Miami (which I could care less about. Is it still possible for both teams to lose?), we have gone thru the first week of college football. As I look back at what has happened so far, I am very pleased with our boys in Red. They not only played a great game, but they also played through shooting themselves in the foot. The two minute drill to close out the first half, I was worried that it would be the same nonsense after the penalties. I figured that three points would be all we could do. Then the Huskers proved me wrong. And I was glad they did. The rushing game was good, not great, but good. The passing game was good, but the receiving game was almost terrible. Had it not been for the Tight Ends, the passing game would have been really bad. I am not sure I am sold on Hardy. He did not seem to be able to catch the ball. And there were others who helped show that our receivers still have more work to do in catching the ball. But overall, it was a very great game. Not too flashy, but a great game. Hopefully next week we can see the Taylor only in the first quarter, and then Ganz and Davis the rest of the game.

But that was not the only story. There were different things that happened. Like ASU almost losing to NAU. Now I know the score shows different, but that game belonged to NAU for three quarters, then the IAA team just simply wore out. But it could have been worse. Ask Kansas State. They almost lost to an IAA by a closer score. Even though the game was not broadcast, there were many ways to see the "play by play" and I have got to say this, Ron Prince I am hoping you are happy you forced out 3 QBs, ones who could have helped on Saturday. Then you have Colorado, and Dan Hawkins. I really do feel for this guy. He was a great coach in Boise State, but losing to Montana State, which by the way is the first IAA team Colorado has scheduled. It looks to be a long season for both K State and Colorado. But, another team that was supposed to contend for the North title was Iowa State. They had to go to 3 OT to beat Toledo. That does not look good for a team vying for the title of a weak North division. Missouri beat up on an overmatched Murray State, and Kansas beat up Northwestern State. So there may be competition from them, but we will not be able to tell until they actually play an IA school. But next week the Huskers have an IAA to scrimmage and practice (and hopefully get the backups to play a full 3 quarters).

BIG 12 2006 - The Season Begins

2006-08-30T05:08:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow night, the Cyclones and the Rockets will collide at 7:00 P.M. in Ames. ISU was scheduled to play Army but after the Cadets bought themselves out of this game, ISU had to scramble to set up this match with Holy Toledo.
ISU 28 - Toledo 21

Colorado will continue practicing 'Hawk Ball' with the Bobcats of Montana State University
CU 18 - MSU 10

Kansas opens up at home against the Demons of Nortwestern State University - they get that name from being somewhere Northwest of New Orleans
KU 24 - NwSU 12

There will be a meeting of two states in Manhattan (that would be Manhattan, Kansas for you in North Platte) when the Redbirds of Illinois State take on Kansas State
KSU 23 - ISU 28 - UPSET SPECIAL-!!!

Missouri begins their Smithless season at 6:00 P.M. Saturday night against the Kentucky Racers of Murray State - Murray State - ? What's a Murray State-?
MU 29 - MSU 15

Baylor also begins their season at home against the Horned Frogs of TCU (ahem - yes North Platte, that means Texas Christian University). This could be a very entertaining game but I don't think the Bear's new offense can pull it off - yet
BU 20 - TCU 28

Oklahoma (no, that is NOT an Indian word for "Lack of Institutional Control") starts their season Saturday night against the Blazers of UAB. Even with all the hub bub going on over there, I suspect OU will win this one rather handily
OU 37 - UAB 14

Another group of Bears (these are from Missouri State University) will get after the Cowboys of Oklahoma State right in the middle of renovating Billionaire Stadium. I don't think all that construction noise will bother the Cowboys
OSU 30 - MSU 21

The Longhorns take on the Mean Green (Eagles-?) of North Texas in another night game in Austin - - yawn---
UT 42 - UNT 3

Something called 'The Citadel' will play at Texas A&M in a game that only an Aggie would care about
Tx A&M 35 - ???? 7

Texas Tech begins it's season with a couple of rarities - A Sophomore QB and a decent opponent - Southern Methodist University. However, I suspect the Red Raiders will torch the Mustangs in Lubbock
TT 39 - SMU 18

Unless you've been living somewhere without television, radio and newspapers, you are well aware Nebraska begins it's third season of the 'Great Experiment' Saturday afternoon in Lincoln against the Bulldogs of yet another university from Louisiana - Louisiana Tech, aka LaTech.

The Bulldogs Head Coach Bicknell has had the usual coachspeak of 'we so bad, they so good' -
"We Just didn't come out here physical enogh" Bicknell said after Monday's practice.
"You've got to be kidding me. We're five days from opening the season and some of these guys just don't get it"
"This is a great opportunity for us," Bicknell said. "The entire country will be watching - - . Nebraska is a great team and a great program. It will be a big challenge but one I want our players to embrace".
Well Coach, EMBRACE THIS -
HUSKERS 41 - Bulldogs 7

What Happened

2006-08-25T04:02:00.000-07:00

Now that we are finally done with the Sam Keller saga, it is hard to believe that there were questions about him coming to Nebraska. Lets look at some of the issues:

1) He was voted team captain before the depth chart came out. He was voted captain unanimously. In other words, the entire team felt he was a leader of the team.

2) He was given the starting nod over Rudy Carpenter for a reason. Both of them had a chance to prove themselves on the field. The only reason there was even a battle this Spring was because Keller went out with a broken thumb. Carpenter was in there because of injury, not because Keller could not get it done. This year, Keller won the starting role based on his field performance, field leadership and field presence. It may have been close, but he still won.

3) Head Coach Dirk Koetter then had an "emergency" meeting with Rudy and his Dad about this. Now while there is no real information on what that consisted of, we do know that immediately after that meeting, Koetter called a meeting of the teams "Leadership Council". Based on a quote from someone in that meeting, the council was ready to stand behind Keller. But near the end of the meeting, they started to go to Carpenter

4) Without any further on field evaluation, and without any further practice or drills, Koetter informs Keller he is being demoted and Carpenter is going ahead to start. So Keller lost his job for a mythical reason, and not because of job performance.

Now, one can speculate what happened, and it has been alluded to in certain papers in Arizona. My opinion on this is that Carpenter and his dad threatened to transfer if he was not the starter. Koetter gave in, and proved that the inmates run the asylum in Tempe. Keller could have stayed, but what chance did he have. Any bond of trust he had with the team was destroyed with that Carpenter meeting, and then with the Leadership Council meeting. The only real choice for Keller was to leave.

But what about those "character issues" that seem to be reported with Keller. Well, he made a few statements last year that can be construed as "selfish" or "self centered". But the quotes he made last year are no different than the ones Carpenter made. These character issues that seem to come up are for one reason only. That reason is there is a contingent, and growing very quickly now, in the Tempe area that wants Koetter gone. They are trying to use any little tidbit available to help their cause. With the Keller issue, they try to highlight a "mythical" character issue with Keller to try and tie that to the Loren Wade shooting that happened. So it is not really about Keller that these issues come up, but because a growing ASU base wants to highlight how Koetter does not have control of the team.

I have this to say to Sam Keller. You are one heck of a QB, and you lit it up against USC until Koetter got stupid. You threw for over 2000 yards in less than 7 complete games. You are a dang good QB, and one who can help the Huskers out this year and next. Welcome to the best college football team ever, the Nebraska Cornhuskers.

Louisiana Tech Overview

2006-08-16T20:06:00.000-07:00

September 2, 2006. That is the date that will be the start of the next chapter for Husker football. That is the first game of the season and it is against the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs. The last time these two teams faced off was August 29, 1998. And that day the Huskers came away with a win, but made then QB Tim Rattay and WR Troy Edwards look like football gods. Rattay threw for over 500 yards, 590 yards to be exact. Edwards was the recipient of that passing fancy for 21 receptions for 405 yards. This time around, however, it will be a lot different.

Tech finished last season at 7-4, averaged 147 yards on the ground, 219 yards in the air on offense. The defense picked up last year allowing an average of 133 rushing yards, and 248 passing yards. While this may not win any national championships, it was a huge improvement for the Bulldogs. But that was last season.

On offense, the Bulldogs are going to start a brand new QB. All of the QBs on the roster have a total of eight pass attempts between them on the I-A level. It looks as if Jr Zac Champion will be the starting QB when the Bulldogs come to Lincoln. So that means they will need to rely more on a running attack as Champion gets up to speed. But that is the strength of this team. They return junior Freddie Franklin and Patrick Jackson. They also have a star recruit in Michael Griffin, who by the way turned down Nebraska to go to Tech. The O Line looks to open the holes. The receiving corp is seasoned, but has bouts of inconsistency. Senior receivers Eric Newman and Jonathan Holland will help in the passing game. In all, Tech returns 6 players on the offense and will likely continue to try and grind it out on the ground until Champion, or one of the other QBs, gets in step with the receivers.

The defense did improve the last year, but is the huge question mark on the team this year. They return only 2 starters. Tech runs a 3-4 defense and only have 1 returning LB from the front seven. This could be a problem in the early stages of the year for Tech. Coaches have been rotating in new players and they brought in JUCOs to help get through the gap. The secondary only returns safety Dez Abrams, who had 52 tackles (30 solo). However, coaches seem to give the impression to the local papers that the secondary will be fine. With only 2 starters that return, there may be more time that is needed to gel as a unit and work together. The defense may hit strides together before their conference schedule begins, but more than likely not before the season opener in Lincoln.

Special teams has a little better luck with returning players. Junior Danny Horwedel returns as the place kicker and was 18-26 in field goals last year. Sophomore punter Chris Keagle returns to punt duty, however that may be bad news to the Bulldogs if he can not improve on the 37.4 yards per punt average. If that continues, then the Bulldog D will have more of a challenge. Returning kickoffs will be the former RB Weldon Brown and punts will be handled by Freddie Franklin. Tech did do a great job on kickoff returns last year averaging 23.2 yards per kickoff return, which ranked them 19 in the country in that category.

This year Tech has a few intangibles working for them, and against them. Last year they ended the season by racking up 40 points in a victory over Fresno State. That gave them good momentum. Then came the bad news. This team finished with a 7-4 record, but they were not invited to any bowl. That has to anger up the blood. They are a young team and no one expects them to do anything, so they may shock people. Coach Bicknell has made practices a very serious affair and has been very vocal when he sees something he does not like. To add to all of that, one of the most famous alumni, Terry Bradshaw, returned for a little ceremony at the campus. And when it is possible to have a legend come talk to the team, it can make a major impact. Tech is sure to ride the emotional roller coaster this year.

So what does this mean for the Huskers? If Callahan is serious about the run game, this is the best time to prove it. A 3-4 defense, almost all new starters on D is like an open invitation to the end zone via the feet of Lucky, Glenn and Wilson. Passing should not be a problem either. The Husker OLine should be able to give Taylor enough time. The Blackshirts will have to watch the pass, but will likely be confronted with the run more times than not. There should be plenty of opportunities to get in the backfield and the secondary will have a chance to get more "on the job" training. And since Darth did a fabulous job breaking down the Huskers, there is no need to repeat it. This should be a win, but let's not out coach ourselves for this one. (You listening Cosgrove?)

La Tech 2005 Stats
Record: 7-4

Offensive rankings:
Rushing: 53rd (147.6 ypg)
Passing: 66th (219.1 ypg)
Scoring: 46th (28.73 ppg)
Total : 63rd (366.7 ypg)

Defensive rankings:
Rushing: 37th (133.2 ypg)
Passing: 86th (248.1 ypg)
Scoring: 58th (25.50 ppg)
Total : 66th (381.3 ypg)

This, That and BIG 12 Quarterbacks

2006-08-16T11:36:00.000-07:00

The KSU Coach, formerly known as Prince, made an interesting-? comment last week when asked if he was concerned about KSU's sudden lack of depth at QB;
"I coach smart, not scared" was the reply. Was that a defense mechanism or just proof he IS the jerk some of us thought he was-? Naw, I'm not prejudeiced......

As fall practices have gotten under way around the BIG 12, we suddenly have only four teams with returning starters at QB - Baylor, Iowa State, Nebraska and Oklahoma. However, OSU's Reid only had five starts last year due to injuries and never did seem to have a handle on Gundy's new offensive scheme. That many unsettled positions this fall does make the BIG 12 appear to be a little less the "Big 2 and the Little 10" than it has the past few years. HOWEVER, OU and Texas each have a LOT of starters and all BIG 12 caliber talent at positions other than QB so they still remain as the teams to beat if you plan on being at the top of the league.

Speaking of quarterbacks, I am often amused at the arrogance of some sports writers, particularly in this neck of the woods. A recent author of local hogwash insinuated that OU must not have known Brian Hildebrand was available cause surely, the young man would have chosen OU over Nebraska if only the OU staff had gone after him. Heh, heh - that's rich-!!! However, that particular writer does seem to have the opinion that QB competition at Nebraska is much better than at OU and that Hildebrand would therefore have played sooner (no pun intended) at OU. hmmmmmmm-?? Nebraska has some quality back ups-? That would be news to some of the more un-faithful Husker fans...

Well, at this writing, the first game is STILL 17 days away-!! Sooo, I need to buck up against the heat down here and get the old smoker out and tuned up for the first Saturday in September. Here's predicting a VERY solid win for the Huskers_!!!

Season Three

2006-08-16T06:29:00.000-07:00

This is now the third season of the Callahan Experiment. This new season should show more progress towards a new beginning than a metamorphasis. The run is more emphasized, and the passing plays will come. The Defense is strong up front and questionable in the secondary. But will this team be able to handle an entire season?

As the team is repeating, all games are focused one at a time. So I will take the same stand. Instead of looking at the entire season, and breaking it down, this season is broken up in 12 units. Each unit represents a specific game that must be played. The first unit is Louisiana Tech.

As I eagerly await kick off for this new college season, I have been looking at the first game. What will happen? Are we prepared for it? What does Tech have in store for us?

All of these questions will be answered. . . .

2006 Nebraska football preview

2006-08-09T07:16:00.000-07:00

Nebraska is the overwhelming favorite in the Big 12 North. With Colorado and K-State breaking in new coaches, Kansas and Iowa State rebuilding their defense, and Missouri losing Brad Smith (but retaining Pinkel)...this looks like Nebraska's best chance to win the division in a long time. This is the perfect chance for Callahan to make his first big splash at NU and make an appearance in the Big 12 championship game. If Nebraska doesn't take advantage of its unique opportunity in 2006, it does not bode well for the future.

Here's a breakdown of Nebraska position-by-position:

Quarterback - Everything changes if senior Zac Taylor gets hurt and misses any length of time. Taylor is an all-conference candidate. More importantly, Taylor is the offense's leader and glue. By all accounts, Taylor is far better than anybody (including the departed Harrison Beck) behind him. Not to mention, with Beck gone, Nebraska has only three scholarship players at the position. Backup Joey Ganz has never taken a live snap in college.

I-back - Marlon Lucky, Cody Glenn, Kenny Wilson, and the Jacksons (Leon and Brandon) provide excellent depth. One or more of these backs should be able to effectively replace Cory Ross. Arguably, all of the potential replacements have better physical skills and potential than Ross. The question is: can they provide the same pass blocking and intangibles that Ross brought to the table? I'm guessing this group's big-play ability and depth will make up for any drop-off in pass blocking.

Fullback - Dane Todd returns as the starter. Fullback has become mostly a part-time position in Callahan's WCO; as mostly a blocker and occasional receiver. This position is likely to be augmented by several tight ends in a H back-type role.

Wide receiver - The Huskers are so deep here that Tyrell Spain and Isaiah Fluellen have been tried at corner during fall camp. Starters Nate Swift and Terrence Nunn both return as leading receivers. Todd Peterson also returns. Several tall and quick newcomers could challenge for immediate playing time and add more big plays.

Tight End - This position is the wild card. If Matt Herian can come back anywhere close to his explosive self before his injury, Nebraska's offense might have something special. Herian's ability to stretch the field over the middle could make everyone's job a lot easier. Nebraska returns all of its tight ends who played a year ago, including several newcomers. Unfortunately, the production from the tight end position in 2005 with Herian out was not promising.

Offensive line - As with any football team, this is the most important position on the field. Last year the line was terrible; Taylor was sacked and hit far too often and the running game averaged less than 100 ypg - Nebraska's worst rushing performance in 4 decades. The bright side was that the line improved toward the end of 2005 as several new faces added depth. The 2006 line appears to be much deeper and healthier. If the spring was any indication, the running game should be much improved. If the line can keep Taylor healthy and produce at least 150 ypg rushing, Nebraska could win 10 or 11 games.

Defensive end - This is one of the best positions on the team. Adam Carriker is an All-American candidate who should terrorize opposing offenses. Jay Moore is very solid at the other end, and Barry Turner is a dangerous pass rusher coming off the bench.

Defensive tackle - Last year's solid backups become this year's starters. Ola Dagunduro, Ndamukong Suh, and Barry Cryer should be the top tackles. Smith and Adams will be tough to replace, but the biggest challenge might be having the same depth as 2005, when Dagunduro and Cryer allowed Smith and Adams to rest. Depth is the biggest concern here.

Linebackers - This is Nebraska's deepest and most accomplished group. Injuries last season led to lots of players getting playing time. Five players with starting experience return. Corey McKeon is an honors candidate. Stewart Bradley is Nebraska's most experienced returner and appears to be healthy again. Bo Ruud was one of Nebraska's leading tacklers last season and should be healthy again as well. Steve Octavien was lost to injury in the first game in 2005. He might be Nebraska's most explosive linebacker. This group should be special.

Secondary - The potential weakness of a very strong defensive. There's talent here but it's young and/or inexperienced. With starting corner Zack Bowman going down, only Courtney Grixby returns as a starter to the same position. Tierre Green started several games at cornerback last season, but he moves to strong safety in 2006. He has plenty of athletic ability but has switched positions three times in his career. With Bowman's injury, JC transfer Andre Jones must be good immediately - he will probably start right away. Several newcomers add depth. The secondary is crucial because Nebraska faces several big and talented receivers (particularly against USC, Texas, and Iowa State) in 2006. The front seven is likely to be so good that teams will choose to attack Nebraska's secondary instead.

Special teams - Jordan Congdon returns at kicker after a Freshman All-American season. All of Nebraska's top kick and punt returners return from very solid units. Nebraska blocked several kicks in 2005. The only question is punter; Nebraska lost its record setting punter from last season.

Will Nebraska win the Big 12 North in 2006?

2006-02-27T06:45:00.000-08:00

A current poll asking if the Huskers will win the Big 12 North in 2006 led to some interesting results. 73% of Husker Forum respondents think Nebraska will win the Big 12 North title next season. These results indicate a few things to me:

1) Callahan has won the confidence of the vast majority of people in the Husker Forum. That's quite a huge step from a year ago today.

2) The flip side is that now that our confidence in the staff is up, so are our expectations. If Nebraska doesn't win the North in 2006, there are going to be some very unhappy people.

3) Callahan's grace period is over. There are only 15 players remaining on the roster who were signed by and ever took the field for Solich. In other words, this is Callahan's program now. He signed 71 of 85 scholarship players on the current roster. The "no talent" excuse won't fly next year, because Callahan himself signed the talent. He will get all the credit or blame for this season.

4) Expectations, even going into Callahan's third year, still aren't too high. Winning the North with ISU as the only team not suffering major losses going into this season isn't too much to ask. An appearance in the Big 12 title game will make fans happy and set the stage for BCS expectations in 2007.

Nebraska vs. Michigan match-up in the Alamo Bowl

2005-12-05T09:03:00.000-08:00

It is official. I have not looked in-depth at any stats yet, but this is an interesting bowl game. A huge challenge for the Huskers, but a great opportunity as well. Michigan has a big name and the game should draw a big audience. It is a real chance for Nebraska to make a statement. A win could catapult the Huskers' recruiting and bolster Nebraska's image. I win over the Wolverines puts Nebraska back in the top 25 and back in the top 25 going into next season as well.

Overall, Iowa would have been a better matchup. The only "easier" aspect of playing Michigan is that Michigan has a less mobile QB than Iowa. The Wolverines won't be running any belly/zone-read options with Henne, and that's a good thing. If Nebraska plays its best, the Huskers can beat Michigan. Michigan has to be the favorite, though. They have the same record as the Huskers but against a MUCH tougher schedule. I doubt Nebraska would have finished 7-4 while playing Notre Dame, Iowa, Minnesota, Penn State, Ohio State, Michigan State, and Wisconsin. Michigan is the better team overall.

If Callahan and his staff can find a way to win this game, it is an enormous step for the program. It would mean three straight wins to finish the season, including wins over Michigan and Colorado in consecutive games. This game could give this new regime all the momentum it needs heading into the offseason.

Without looking at any numbers in-depth, my initial reaction is that Michigan will win. But I'm hopeful. This is a difficult, but winnable, challenge.

I can't wait! :D

Final Week BIG XII Power Ranking

2005-11-29T06:43:00.000-08:00

First of all, I must tip my hat to the coaches and the players for a very well played and coached game! It almost brought tears to my eyes to behold something I hadn't seen from the Huskers in a long, long time. Coach Callahan, the staff and the players deserve a standing ovation - EVERYBODY looked like they were on the same page for the first time during the Callahan era.

Here, at the conclusion of the BIG XII regular season, are my picks for the final power rating of the conference:

1) Texas - No arguments here. The horns problems with the Aggies could spell trouble for the Buffalo.
2) Texas Tech - This one could be argued due to the bad calls during the OU game.

3) Oklahoma - They have steadily gotten better during conference play.

4) NEBRASKA - A VERY impressive win in Boulder. Huskers used the last game of the regular season to hi-lite great improvement - has the turnaround begun-?
5) Texas A&M - Some assistant coaches will probably become scapegoats to save the Head Coach's job.
6) Kansas - Their defense was probably good enough to save their Head Coach's job but some offensive assistants may hit the road.
7) Iowa State - This year's under achievers once again.

8) Colorado - The just reward for a dreadful showing both on and off the field - You get to be Texas' whipping boy once again-!
9) Kansas State - Coach Snyder may be leaving Manhattan at just the right time.

10) Missouri - This is a team that's been hard to figure all year - The MU administration will probably keep Pinkel and fire their B-Ball coach instead.
11) Baylor - Looked better this year so they're NOT #12.

12) Oklahoma State - New coach, new staff and new system and their season looked like it-!!

OK, that's it from down here in HillBilly land - See y'all next year.

Nebraska-Colorado Reaction

2005-11-28T07:31:00.000-08:00

First, the football-only reaction:

This was easily the best performance by the Huskers under Callahan. You need good coaching and good talent to succeed. My argument all along has been that Nebraska has sufficient talent right now to win the Big 12 North. They proved it against Colorado. The coaches put together a brilliant, almost perfect gameplan and the players executed it extremely well. However, let's not forget that these are the exact same players that Callahan referred to after the KU loss 3 weeks ago with "you do the best you can with the players you have". These players didn't suddenly become more talented in the past three weeks. The coaches did a better job against CU than they had in any other game and they got the most out of the talent on hand. I think the coaches get most of the credit for the CU win, just as they deserved most of the blame for the Missouri loss. After KU's win over ISU, even the Huskers' loss to the Jayhawks wouldn't look so bad if now if the final margin hadn't been 40-15. Let's give the coaches credit for the CU win...but you can't have it both ways. These are the same players supposedly "weren't talented enough" just 3 weeks ago. Perspective and balance, people.

As for the "non-football" reaction:

I've been shocked by the reaction to the Colorado game from Husker fans, and not just on this board. There's been as much gloating at our own than at Colorado. I backed off interacting with Husker fans (including on the Husker Forum) since the win because I just wanted to enjoy the win instead listening to us attack each other. I can somewhat understand such frustration after a loss...but after winning at Colorado? Both sides have been guilty of doing this. Within minutes of the game, I noticed posts about how Callahan or Pederson should still be fired or how it was too bad the win would save Cosgrove's job. While I'm not a big fan of Coz's and I happen to agree with the need for Pederson's removal, these were simply not appropriate comments, IMO, minutes after the biggest Husker win since 2003. On the other hand, I also noticed several posts "taunting" any Husker fans who have been critical, as if critical Husker fans didn't celebrate the Husker victory. Furthermore, I enjoyed the win as much as anybody (I was hoarse from celebrating!), but since when does a win over an unranked, 7-3 team vindicate anybody at Nebraska? I'm not sure why Steve Pederson feels "vindicated".

In short, we should use the reaction to this game as a lesson: we are all on the same side. In the future, I'd advice we keep our reactions to Nebraska games (win or lose) away from taunting fellow Husker fans.

Now comes the fun part: what bowl will Nebraska play in and what opponent will they play? I hope it's either Iowa, Michigan, or Florida State in that order. The Alamo Bowl would be nice, as would a trip to Orlando (Champs) or San Diego (Holiday) for the players. They've earned it. :-)

Callahan needs time but Pederson should be fired

2005-11-11T09:24:00.000-08:00

Based on statements issued by the UNL athletic department, I think UNL may have misjudged the target of Husker fans' current "firing squad" mentality. I don't know many rational Husker fans who want Callahan fired after just two seasons. I'm as upset by the performance of Nebraska's football team the past two seasons as anybody, but firing Callahan is simply unthinkable at this point. However, there are plenty (including me) of Husker supporters who feel Steve Pederson should be fired immediately.

My desire for Pederson to be fired has very little to do with wins and losses. First, Pederson simply lucked into Callahan - he didn't plan to hire him when he fired Solich. I wasn't a big Solich supporter (at least until the staff changes before 2003), but an AD CAN'T fire a 9-3 coach unless he has somebody better lined up. Period. An AD should not lie to the public. An AD should not make implications that put the blame on college football players rather than his million dollar coaches. And an AD should not bungle PR so badly as to cost the athletic department millions of dollars in potential bond interest expense. Pederson's worst offense is to split Husker fans with his "your with us or against us" dogma. Pederson's "leadership" has resulted in a multitude of additional negative consequences. Among them:

-Media-types around the nation now seem to regard Husker football as a joke. I don't know what could be worse in terms of recruiting.
-In the local media, there are stories of Steve Pederson laughing during a critical loss to K-State in 2003 and acting glum after a critical win at Colorado 2 weeks later.
-There is a widespread perception that Pederson is dishonest, incompetent, or both.
-Recently, the fundraising struggles of the athletic department were documented in an OWH story what I'm certain you're familiar with. Epley's comments about the fans were unbelievable, but typical of PR under Mr. Pederson's watch. I found his question "how can 60,000 fans attend a spring scrimmage but only 4,000 donate?" to be quite interesting. Indeed, why? What is the cause of the fundraising struggle that could potentially cost UNL $30 million in additional bond interest expense?

If Callahan does eventually fail, we need an AD in place with the credibility and ability to be able to hire a great coach. Pederson has neither. How well have his other targets (Wannstedt, Nutt, even Walt Harris to a degree) fared as head coaches? In addition to being without integrity (or at least appearing to lack integrity), Steve Pederson simply isn't up to hiring a good football coach. Bill Callahan didn't create this mess. Pederson did. And he should pay for that mistake with his job.

Why I've changed my mind about this team

2005-11-08T09:12:00.000-08:00

Despite all my concerns about the coaching last season and my dislike for Steve Pederson, I went into this season with a positive attitude. I spent most of this season searching for positives to latch onto. Although I remained objective and critical when warranted, each game I went looking for the bright side. I decided to ignore Steve Pederson's existance during the season.

No more.

I tried to be positive, but there's not enough to be positive about. The team appears to be going into a tailspin just like 2004. These are facts:

-Nebraska has gained over 400 yards total offense just once this season.
-Nebraska has rushed for 36 yards or less in 4 out of 9 games this season.
-Nebraska has passed for more than 281 yards once this season (431).
-Nebraska has given up 34, 14, 41, 31, and 40 points in the last 5 games.
-Nebraska has given up 277, 180, and 213 rushing yards the past three games.
-Kansas gained a SEASON HIGH total of rushing yards against Nebraska (this includes games against Florida Atlantic and Applachian State)
-Kansas gained more total yards against Nebraska (428) than every opponent on their schedule except Applachian State (435)
-Kansas held Nebraska to its lowest total yards defensively by 42 yards.
-Kansas held Nebraska to its lowest yardage totals in both rushing and passing
-No opponent has rushed for fewer yards than Nebraska did against Missouri
-In the last three games, Missouri has gained 318, 523, 180, and 176 total yards. Guess who the 523 was against?
-In the last three games, Missouri has rushed for 88, 277, 33, and 59 yards. See above.
-In the last three games, Missouri has given up 157, -2, 208, and 136 rushing yards. Guess who?
-Nebraska is last in the Big 12 in rushing yards and total offense
Nebraska's highest rank in the Big 12 among major statistical categories is 6th (scoring defense, rushing defense).

These are facts, and they cannot be disputed. As Callahan has said "it is what it is". Steve Pederson created this mess, and he should be fired. Changing coaches is a bad thing, but if Callahan loses to a terrible K-State team at home and finishes another 5-6 season with a 5 game losing streak...he should be fired and the entire house should be cleaned. Although I was never a sunshine pumper and have always hated Pedey, I've woken up to reality. It is right in front of our faces. If you're still defending this staff, it is time to face facts. "Pedey's Big Adventure" is a failure.

A little about a lot - I Think

2005-11-06T08:04:00.000-08:00

I think I have been as objective about Coach Callahan as anybody could have been. I say 'could have been' because it's now clear that he is NOT THE MAN for the Huskers. But before we get too cranked up over this, let's start at the top.

Now, I've had my mind made up about Athletic Director Pederson ever since he sent that plane down to Arkansas. ARKANSAS?? What kind of IDIOT would have ever thought Houston Nutt was an improvment over Frank Solich?? It was obvious at that point that Pederson's plan for hiring a coach wasn't a plan at all.

Now, to the current situation - what do we do?? Well, that deserves another question. How are we ever going to get a really good coach to come to Nebraska as long as Pederson is in charge?? "Mr. Gravitating to Mediocrity" has the Husker Nation LOOKING UP AT MEDIOCRITY !!

I'm setting here this morning nursing my fourth cup of coffee lamenting the things I've been reading in various publications about the Huskers - NONE OF IT IS GOOD!! In the past, I've always been proud of the Huskers, even in defeat. Well, that hasn't been the case for a year and a half now. Initially, I was willing to give EVERYBODY the benefit of the doubt, expecting that it would take time and good things would come. A lot of those feelings were due to the fact that this staff does seem to recruit very well. BUT, after this amount of time and their latest showing at Kansas, it's pretty obvious they can't teach nor inspire their way out of a wet paper bag!! One of the articles I read this morning pointed out how well the West Coast Offense was working - AT COLORADO!! I guess, after their dismantling of Missouri this week end, you'd have to say Barnet knows a little more about coaching than Callahan does. Another article in a forum in The Independent pointed out how Coach Leach brought in an entirely new offense to Texas Tech and how well they did IN THEIR FIRST YEAR - without Leach having his OWN RECRUITS in place.

So, back to my question - what do we do?? Well friends, in this case it starts at the top. We have got to get together enough 'boosters of substance' to raise the money (or a big stick) to buy Pederson out of his contract then go get an Athletic Director that knows what he is doing. The new A.D. and a search committe would have a mandate to obtain the serves of a Head Coach that could salvage this years recruiting class and get things turned around for next year. Otherwise, next year will be as disappointing as last year and this year and, what's worse, no prospects of it getting any better!!

One other thing to consider - in order for OU to get back to prominence, they had to 'clean house' from TOP to bottom. Yep, they got a new A.D. that knew what he was doing THEN they got a coach that knew what he was doing. I THINK WE ALL KNOW WHAT HAS TO BE DONE.

OU reaction and analysis

2005-10-31T12:47:00.000-08:00

Unlike the Missouri game, the OU loss wasn't primarily the coaches' fault. The gameplan was appropriate. Bullocks missed a tackle on both of Peterson's long runs, and several others were missed as well. Taylor had his first bad game (at times), although he had his moments. Coz has actually did some good things scheme-wise, but the players didn't always execute. For example, on one play Coz called a coverage where a defender came underneath the off-man coverage, baiting the QB into an INT (which our DB dropped - I wish Nebraska would do this more). The coaches also did the right thing by starting Murtha over Thomas, but Murtha got destroyed on the 1st play (although he seemed to be fine for the rest of the game).

THIS TIME, the lack of pass rush wasn't Coz's fault. He was calling blitzes, but Nebraska could not get to Bomar even with extra defenders. There were several plays Bomar beat the blitz and one-on-one coverage, which is probably why Coz didn't blitz much on OU's late drives. This is understandable. As for Peterson's running...the Blackshirts missed several tackles and Peterson is just a great back. It happens...it is nobody's "fault".

The fake FG was a coaching error. It was logical to allow OU to kick into a strong wind and play it safe...that was the only major coaching error I saw in defense/special teams.

Offensively...not so good. Too many long-developing pass plays. Not enough short/quick passes until later in the game. The script isn't working at the beginning of games; not enough screens and draws (again). Opponents are going to continue to blitz until Nebraska re-establishes the running game or punishes defenses with more quick passes, screens, and draws.

I've ripped the coaches at times, but this loss wasn't their fault, at least in terms of strategy. The gameplan was solid, particularly on defense. OU just played better. This loss hurts, but at least Nebraska isn't getting blown out like last season. I still think a 2-1 finish is likely if the team keeps its collective head up (I don't see much chance of winning all 3, particularly at CU).

Still, objectively...have you notice Nebraska plays better the further away from the beginning of the game and halftime? It's as if, the further away from the coaches' input they get, the better they play. The 2nd and 4th quarters have been Nebraska's best quarters all season. Why? This concerns me deeply. If Nebraska manages to somehow win the last three, this season should still be considered a relative success. If Nebraska wins 2 of 3, I think the level of improvement from last season would be acceptable. If Nebraska wins 1 of 3 and barely makes it to a bowl game, this team will have underachieved badly. If Nebraska loses all 3 of the final games, ending on a 5 game losing streak and missing a bowl for the second straight year...it would be time to talk about changes. Not in terms of Callahan, but on his staff and in the AD's office. If Nebraska does miss out on a bowl game for the second consecutive season, Steve Pederson, the man who created this situation, should have to answer for it after gutting a 10-3 football team in 2003.

Oklahoma-Nebraska preview

2005-10-28T07:16:00.000-07:00

This is a tough game to get a read on. From what I've seen of OU's offense, they shouldn't be able to score much on Nebraska - with or without Peterson. Even with the pass defense terrible last season, the Blackshirts shut Peterson down (15 att. 58 yards, if I'm not mistaken). OU's been held to less than 100 yards rushing 3 times already this season (TCU, Texas, and Kansas). Besides, as strange as it sounds, Peterson is not the type of back who will normally hurt Nebraska. The Blackshirts have proven very effective against big backs that run straight at you (although A.D. is the best of the bunch, obviously). The type of RB that scares me is actually Jones, a cut-back runner who can take advantage of Nebraska's hard pursuit. A decent example is Baylor: their big back got nothing, but Whitaker, Baylor's little cutback runner, had a few decent runs on us. I can't see Bomar beating us with the pass; OU has passed for less than 210 yards in 4 games, including two games under 100 yards passing. If Coz doesn't do anything stupid, the Blackshirts should be fine.

The other side of the ball is where I'm worried. OU's defense is possibly the most talented Nebraska has faced. OU is excellent against the run; they've given up more than 98 yards rushing only once all season...against Texas. OU's pass defense, however, has been suspect; they've given up less than 226 yards passing only once all season (to Kansas, so that barely counts)! I believe the key is to exploit OU's secondary while keeping the pressure off Taylor. I'd like to see an offensive gameplan featuring short, quick passes...similar to against ISU.

I really hope Callahan and Coz don't outsmart themselves in this one. It looks pretty simple: make Bomar beat you with his arm and attack the OU secondary. My fear is that the coaches will decide they need to "outsmart" Stoops and display their "genius" by going against logic and trying to run the ball 50 times against the Sooners or play extremely soft or aggressive on defense. If the coaches simply install a logical gameplan and stay out of the players' way, Nebraska should win a low-scoring game. I think the coaches will do just that.

NU 20
OU 16

BIG XII Power Ranking this week

2005-10-25T10:28:00.000-07:00

1. Texas - pretty obvious don't you think?

2. Texas Tech - whupped by 35 points and still #2?? Well, name a BIG XII team (other than Texas) that will obviously beat Texas Tech.

3. Colorado - just good enough to go back and get trampled in a Bevo stampede.

4. Missouri - if the Tigers go into Lawerence this week and LOSE, expect Pinkel to be unemployed by January. But, if I were a betting man, I'd take KU and the points.

5. NEBRASKA - suppose the coaches learned anything last week? How about last year - like 'deep six' the hillbilly comments?

6. Texas A&M - Aggies seem to be rollin' along now - up until they play Texas.

7. Oklahoma - OU is looking at this weekend's game with the Huskers as 'The winner goes to the Alamo Bowl, Loser goes to Shreveport.

8. Baylor - at 4-3, Baylor still has a lot of work to do to get bowl eligible.

9. Kansas State - Wildcats will still be in the BIG XII North race IF they upset Colorado this weekend.

10. Iowa State - things just haven't gone the Cyclones way this season. So far, the only BIG XII game they've won was against OSU!!

11. Kansas - defense is carrying the Jayhawks and the offense is carrying Mangino (if you can imagine that) to an interview for a new job.

12. Oklahoma State - 9 interceptions in the last 2 games. Any other questions about "who's #12"??

Missouri reaction: What was with the gameplan?

2005-10-23T08:08:00.000-07:00

Let the record show I predicted it would be a shootout and Missouri would run the ball better than any previous Nebraska opponent using the spread and belly-read. I'm sorry I was proven correct. Reaction to the Missouri game:

1) Terrible, horrible game plan by Nebraska's coaches on both sides of the ball.

2) Coz needs to junk the 3-man line...forever. The worst thing, when he went to a normal front in the 2nd quarter and brought pressure, Missouri got nothing. So what does he do in the 2nd half? Go with the 3-man line almost exclusively. Even when Missouri started gashing Nebraska mostly with the run, he stayed with it. How do you expect the DB's to cover receivers when the QB has all day to throw? How to you expect the D-linemen to get pressure when they're rushing 3 on 5? Why is your defense designed to ask your middle linebacker to cover a wide receiver 50 yards down the field when there's no pressure on the QB? The defensive gameplan was a joke, and the lack of adjustments in the 2nd half were worse. Terrible.

3) Offensive game plan was almost as bad. Missouri came in with the worst rushing defense in the Big 12, and Callahan abandoned the running game early. Also, if Cally insisted on passing, why not go with some screens and quick throws to combat the pressure? He's going to get Taylor killed. Which leads me to...

4) Zac Taylor is lucky he's not leaving Missouri on a stretcher...and I'm being serious. Callahan's decision to throw so often and with so many deep drops put a bullseye on Taylor. Thomas was getting eaten alive by MU's defensive end and Callahan refused to run the ball or run draws and screens to slow down the rush. At the very least, the coaches should have given the o-line more help with RB's and TE's. Horrible.

5) Despite all the mistakes by the coaches, I think Nebraska would have won if Nunn hadn't fumbled after the long catch. We had the momentum and would have scored to take the lead. The WR's are just dropping too many passes. How many key drops did our WR's have?!

6) Taylor threw some bad passes, but I don't blame him. When he's almost literally getting hit on every play and having receivers drop passes or fumble so many times, he's going to start pressing at some point. He got so little help it is sick.

This was the type of stubborn, "our brilliant game plan should work so we're not going to change it"-performance we saw against ISU last season. Let's hope it was just one bad game and just a blip. Back to the drawing board...

Husker's Coaching Staff has some 'splainin' to do

2005-10-23T07:30:00.000-07:00

OOPPS!! My parents always told me, "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all". Soooo;

The Huskers played pretty good for about 15 minutes.
The Tigers played pretty good for about 45 minutes.
The referees were pretty good to the Tigers.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - OUT!!

Basketball main topic in Okie Land

2005-10-21T06:30:00.000-07:00

You know football season has been pretty sour if by the middle of October, your local sports page has as much news about the up coming B-ball season as it does about the current football season. Tulsa University usually comes in third behind OU and OSU but this season, it's Tulsa with the better record and a much more entertaining game. I'M LOVIN' IT!
You've all heard that old adage "You can throw the playbook out the window, blah, blah". Well, over at OU, they threw the playbook at the window - AND MISSED!! Current rendition of an offense is run, run, pass, kick. Baylor comes to town this week to test OU but just ain't there yet - OU by 13.
OSU heads up to snake bitten ISU - Good NEWS - this game ain't on TV!! ISU finally wins one without overtime - ISU by 14.
Texas A&M is favored by 3 at Kansas State - I don't think so - KSU by 6.
Kansas takes it defense into Colorado this weekend with high hopes their offense makes the trip. If KU wins this one, look to see if there's a fork lift handy to hoist Mangino in the air - note: every one's safe!! - CU wins it by 17.
Texas Tech takes it's well designed offense into Texas this week looking to put their brand on Bevo - well, Bevo maybe a steer but he's mean - UT by 10.
Tulsa stays home this week (so the locals will get to see some actual OFFENSE) against SMU. This game may be closer than most think - TU by 6.
Since the HUSKERS are playing at Mizzou this week, the mighty prognosticators and the local sports jocks are picking the Tigers by 3. These guys are all looking toward next weekend (OU @ NU) as John Blake's Revenge and must figure the Huskers are doing the same - WRONG!! The Husker players and coaches know they ain't good enough to be looking ahead - HUSKERS by 9.
I don't remember a regular season NFL game ever being played on a Friday night but I also don't remember a hurricane season like this one. The suits at the NFL moved this one up to tonight in order to escape Wilma - but, I don't think it's going to help the Dolphins any more than Ricky will - KC by 7. I didn't BOLD that one cause I really don't give - ahem - .......

Huskers' mid-season report card

2005-10-17T12:49:00.000-07:00

Coaching: B+. The coaching is so much better this season. I'd give coaching a "D" last season, so this staff has really improved. More adjustments throughout the game, better use of the talent at hand, better gameplans to start the game, better job of attacking opponents' weaknesses. Even special teams has improved markedly. The only reason I didn't give an "A" is because of how bad the offense looked early.

O-line: C+. The line was horrible early in the season, but they've really improved. Yards per rush is still only 3.3, and Taylor has taken a lot of hits at times. However, the line is improving, hence the "+". I still think the o-line played better in 2004. This is the only area of the team to not improve on last season.

QB: B+. I happen to really like Zac Taylor, so I resisted bending to emotion and giving him an "A". He's set a school record by almost 100 yards, shown excellent leadership, and made some really nice throws. He's also shown the ability to pick up 1st downs when he runs. I have complete faith in ZT at QB. He has missed a few throws and had a few turnovers, but it's his first season as a starter, and what QB doesn't miss throws?

RB's: B. Ross is playing well but has fumbled a few times; Glenn is an outstanding short-yardage back; Lucky has shown signs but hasn't dazzled yet. Not much from BJax. Solid performance, not great.

WR's: C+. They've really improved. Nunn has emerged as a go-to guy, and Swift has shown excellent hands. Hardy has been okay. As a whole, the receivers still dropped too many passes early in the season. Could be a "B" before too long with improvement.

DL: A+. One of the best units in the nation. Period.

LBs': A-. McKeon is probably All-Big 12 right now, Ruud has played well, and the strongside spot has been solid as well. Imagine if Octavien hadn't gotten hurt!

DB's: C. Without a doubt the weakness of the defense. They've been good enough to win. I still think the way to beat Nebraska is to attack this secondary and throw it 40 or 50 times.

Special teams: A+. Remember the "punt return" game last season? This season, Nebraska averages 15.3 per return. That's outstanding. I still think Nunn is better than Grixby, yet it seems Grixby gets more chances. I wonder why? That's nitpicking, though. Congdon has been great for a true freshman, Nebraska has blocked several field goals, and is giving up less than 17 yards per kick return and less than 7 yards per punt return. What a HUGE improvement from last season!

Overall grade at midseason: B+

Nebraska-Baylor preview and prediction

2005-10-13T13:22:00.000-07:00

Since the Bears play a lot of 8 and 9-man fronts, I think you might see some big plays out of the Huskers this week. As well Nebraska has run the middle screen, I could see several long gains out of this type of play if Baylor insists on bringing a lot of pressure from LB's and the secondary. We might see the return of the crossing patterns that hurt ISU all day; if Baylor is bringing people, those patterns could lead to long plays if Baylor misses a tackle. If Nebraska can run at all, playaction is going to kill Baylor. I think my biggest concern offensively is all the injuries to Nebraska's WR's and Baylor's ability to create turnovers. I'm pretty sure Nebraska will win easily if they can get the lead early, but they have to keep the crowd out of the game.

I don't see Baylor's offense as much of a threat versus the Blackshirts. Baylor's RB is a big, strong kid...but I don't think going right at the Blackshirts is the way to beat them. I don't see how Baylor can run much. Baylor will probably throw often and hit some passes, but the more they throw the more Nebraska's D-line has the opportunity to get to their QB. After facing TT, Baylor's passing game shouldn't be too difficult to contain. I just don't see how Baylor can score enough to win.

The only thing that can save Baylor from a loss are a bunch of turnovers by Nebraska's offense or a bunch of special teams breaks (long returns, blocked kicks, etc.)

NU 31
BU 20

BIG XII POWER RANKING

2005-10-11T07:58:00.000-07:00

Right now, after 2 conference games, I say it's:

1) Texas - leading the conference in Total Offense and Total Defense, 1st in scoring offense and 3rd in scoring defense.
2) Colorado - 2nd in Total Offense and Total defense, 2nd in scoring offense and 1st in scoring defense.
3) Texas Tech - 5th in Total Offense and 6th in Total Defense, 3rd in scoring offense and 6th in scoring defense.
4) NEBRASKA - 4th in Total Offense and 9th in Total Defense, tied for 4th in scoring offense and tied for 8th in scoring defense.
5) Oklahoma - 10th in Total Offense and and 7th in Total Defense, 6th in scoring offense and 10th in scoring defense.
6) Baylor - Tied for 7th in Total Offense and tied for 4th in Total Defense, tied for 7th in scoring offense and 2nd in scoring defense.
7) Iowa State - 6th in Total Offense and 8th in Total Defense, tied for 9th in scoring offense and 7th in scoring defense.
8) Missouri - 3rd in Total Offense and LAST in Total Defense, 4th in scoring offense and LAST in scoring defense.
9) Texas A&M - Tied for 7th in Total Offense and 10th in Total Defense, tied for 7th in scoring offense and tied for 8th in scoring defense.
10) Kansas - 11th in Total Offense and 3rd in Total Defense, LAST in scoring offense and 4th in scoring defense.
11) Kansas State - LAST in Total Offense and tied for 4th in Total Defense, tied for 9th in scoring offense and 5th in scoring defense.
12) Okla. State - 9th in Total Offense and 11th in Total Defense, 11th in scoring offense and 11th in scoring defense.

Statistics after just 2 conference games don't tell you much other than who may have played Texas or Colorado. Both teams scored big in their first 2 games but now Colorado must go into Austin and do a lot better job than they did at Miami.
Baylor is playing VERY WELL so far this season and may have Coach Morriss on the way to being BIG XII Coach of the Year. Nebraska can not afford a letdown after that horrible break against Texas Tech or the Bears will bite them in the Bear Pit at Waco.
TBS is going to show us whether it's Oklahoma or Kansas that stagger out of Arrowhead Stadium this weekend while ABC will televise KSU's visit to Texas Tech. Iowa State heads down to defenseless Missouri while OSU limps into Texas A&M.

I'll leave y'all with this - Nebraska and Baylor each have 4-1 records and seem to have turned 'the corner' heading into the second half of the football season. If both teams keep pounding away and overachieving, they are going to leave a lot of so-called experts red faced by season's end. I'm just hoping Baylor does REALLY well AFTER this weekend - GoBigRed!!

Heartbreaking loss but NOT DEVASTATING

2005-10-09T08:20:00.000-07:00

The team kept pounding away and never seemed to lose their confidence. Don't remember EVER being as proud of a team AFTER a loss as I am of these guys!! The team and staff kept their composure and almost pulled it out.
How deep is the team at wide receiver?? Sure looked like there were a bunch of'em getting banged up out there. Still looks like they need more depth at offensive line, tight end and defensive backs but it also looks like we're gettin' there. I"M STARTING TO BELIEVE - ON TO BAYLOR !!!

Texas Tech aftermath: tough loss but promising performance

2005-10-08T21:30:00.000-07:00

I'm really proud of our team, coaches and players.

Considering Nebraska had five turnovers (including the fumble after the INT ), that was a very promising performance by Nebraska. I know Tech made the defense look bad, but Tech makes a lot of teams look bad...and Nebraska held them without a TD for a long time in the second half. What a game, though! That was the most into the game I've ever seen a Memorial Stadium crowd!

Nebraska showed tremendous heart by coming back from 21-0 and 27-14. I have no concerns about the heart of this team. Now comes the test: how does Nebraska respond to a loss? They need to get over it quickly, because tough road games at Baylor and Missouri are next, with Oklahoma after. I think they'll be fine. Nobody will test the D like Tech did.

I love the offensive performance. They ran, they passed, they used different players' strengths (loved seeing Glenn pound it inside!), they converted tough situations, they scored enough to win and moved the ball all day.

A tough loss...but an encouraging game. Losing the turnover battle 5-1, getting behind by 21, and still almost beat Tech. Remember, this was a 60 point loss last season. A 57-point swing isn't too bad at all.

I don't think Nebraska will play a vastly superior team to Tech, and its doubtful Nebraska will have 1) 5 turnovers and 2) face an offense like Tech's again. I think a split at Baylor and Missouri, a win over OU (best way to beat Nebraska is attacking the secondary and OU's QB isn't all that great), a win at Kansas, a win over K-State at home is unreasonable. Winning at CU will be tough. But, hey, that's 8-3 and a solid bowl. Good effort by Nebraska and the team is improving. I've noticed Cally has toned down the shifting. He's definitely learning. Another example: Callahan is starting to run the ball more on the goal line. I love it! He's also not using so many obvious passing formations on the goal.

The main thing I wanted to see this season was improvement thoughout the season and the willingness of the coaches to adapt. I'm seeing both! On to Baylor...

Blogging the day

2005-10-08T10:25:00.000-07:00

So I am back. I have some extra time today to actually enjoy the games. And here is what I see so far:

Kansas v K State - This is doing no justice to Kansas D. K State is horrible, and it is not just that I do not like them, but K State drives to the Kansas 35, then loses 35 yards on penalties and a bad decision to keep running around instead of just going down. Then on 3rd down, they run a bootleg, broken up as it were, and they throw it after they pass the line of scrimmage. So add another negative yards and a loss of play. Just pathetic, and that is how the whole game is going.

Wisconsin v Northwestern. - Good defensive battle. I saw the Northwestern D just come after Wisconsin and leveled the QB. However the Wisconsin offense has been going and this game is really good.

Texas v Oklahoma - This just started and Texas scored on their opening drive. Oklahoma did not do much with their first drive. But then after texas takes over, Young is waving that football all over the place, and the OU D slaps it out of his hands. Luckily Young recovered his own fumble. This one could be interesting.

Nebraska is up soon. Tech worries me, but I am thinking the Huskers can make it 5-0 now.

Tec h awaits

2005-10-07T22:00:00.000-07:00

Just hours away from the Tech game. Being in Arizona I get to watch this on TBS.

We will know soon enough what to think of this team. And I speak of either one here.

Iowa State post-game analysis

2005-10-07T21:32:00.000-07:00

Reviewed the ISU game (twice!). My impressions:

1) Great gameplans by Callahan and Cosgrove. I loved Callahan's use of the crossing patterns and more spread formations.
2) Cory Ross played a fantastic game. Even his pass blocking was solid.
3) Zac Taylor looked great! Not one pass was a potential interception and he tried to protect the ball with two hands even on his fumble. Given time, he'll hit the receivers.
4) O-line pass blocked much better, although ISU didn't bring many blitzes (but tons of stunts!).
5) I like him with the ball, but Nunn needs to tuck in the ball! Fluellen looked good at times, I think he's ready to contribute. Swift and Mulkey both need to play more...best hands it appears.
6) Our D-line played outstanding! They created lots of pressure without too much blitzing.
7) McKeon is playing at an All-Big 12 level right now.
8) Nebraska's secondary is still a bit shaky.
9) ISU got almost every call!!! I couldn't believe how many times holding wasn't called on their o-line!
10) Zac Taylor is one tough QB, but he needs to learn to protect himself better when he runs.

I came away really impressed from watching the game again. By the way, my Iowa State prediction was: NU 20 ISU 17

Texas Tech pre-game

2005-10-07T21:14:00.000-07:00

Here are my keys to the game:

1) Home field. Tech hasn't played on the road yet, and Lincoln is as tough as anywhere.
2) Competition. Say what you will about Nebraska's schedule, but at least we've played three legit D-1 teams including a ranked team. Tech's schedule is a joke, and you saw how far their production dropped off against a legit team last week.
3) Overconfidence. The Tech kids can't help but be overconfident after last season.
4) Secondary/coverage. Can Nebraska cover Tech's receivers, especially Henderson out of the backfield? Nebraska's D-line is better than Kansas but their secondary is better. How does this play into the matchups?
5) Defensive coaching. Will Coz attack Hodges or play soft like last season and allow Tech to cut up the Blackshirts? Kansas got to Hodges...Nebraska's defenders can't cover these receivers all day...Nebraska has GOT to beat up their QB.
6) Callahan. He's used a conservative running attack against Pitt and a gunslinger gameplan against ISU. Will we see one of these, a mixed gameplan?

If this game were anywere but Lincoln, I think Tech would win. TT hasn't been tested yet and Lincoln isn't a good place to have your first road game. I think the "real" score of last year's game was about 42-10 (take away Davis being thrown to the wolves). I think Nebraska's defense is at least 2 TD's better. I think Nebraska manages to score 30 points (maybe a defensive score in there somewhere). There's only one catch: if Coz uses the same 3-man line defense he used last season, Tech will score 40 or 50. For anybody not familiar with this, Tech has huge splits between their offensive linemen. I don't think anybody but Tech does it to such an extreme. I believe the main reason Leach uses it is to create passing lanes by default. With all the short, quick passes, Tech can create passing lanes with the splits. It also spreads the DE's so far apart, thus creating a "bigger" pocket. Coz played a 3-man line last season (1 sack all night).

I don't like the 3-man line idea because: 1) it takes a d-lineman off the field when the d-line is our strength right now and 2) I have more faith in one of our d-lineman beating one of Tech's linemen than one of our LB's or DB's covering one of their receivers for a long time. I hope Coz stays with a 4-man line and brings pressure in front of a zone. Kansas had some success with the zone-blitz and I think it's the best way to attack them.

At least with pressure, you force the QB to make quick decisions under fire. I'm really worried about Henderson on draws and especially as a receiver against our LB's I'm quite worried about Bullocks, Green, or Bradley being placed in a position to have to cover man-to-man. I hope Coz uses some zone-blitzes to keep certain defenders out of man-to-man coverage while also creating some pressure. I've also noticed Tech's QB has some rushing yards this season; apparently he's pretty mobile. That adds another thread to Tech's offense.

I really think the best way to attack a spread offense is with pressure. With all the receivers sent into patterns, that's fewer blockers. I'd make Tech pay for sending out so many receivers, like against Florida in 1995. I'm very curious to see how Nebraska handles this. Nebraska should be able to hold Tech to less than Kansas did in Lubbock, and I'm starting to really believe in this team (maybe I'm making this pick more with my heart than my head!).

NU 30
TT 27

WEEK SIX - Are we happy yet -??

2005-10-07T05:20:00.000-07:00

Here we are 5 weeks and 4 games into the season with a 4-0 record and I don't remember a year where so many were still gnashing their teeth.
Huskers showed a lot of improvement last week, raising hopes w/Husker fans everywhere that this will be a MUCH better year than last. But we're all still on the edge of our seats with the RED RAIDERS in our sites. Coaching staff and team seem to have this in the proper perspective but most of us fans remember last year and WE WANT REVENGE!!!! ahem - -
Took a look at the BIG XII match ups this week and was suprised to see only 2 of the XII ranked in the top 25 - Texas @ #2 and Texas Tech @ #15 - Oklahoma's not there and Nebraska's not there - seems very strange.
OK, Kansas is at Kansas State this weekend and the Cats are favored by 6. However, Mr. Bill might have another trick kick up his sleeve - this time there won't be a holder for the extra point-?? UPSET - KU by 1
Baylor is at Iowa State where ISU is favored by 9. This is a "wounds are healing slowly" game after Baylor almost beat TxA&M last week and ISU got Rossified in overtime at Nebraska. ISU by only 3
Missouri, favored by 5 &1/2, is at offenseless Oklahoma State - Tigers maul Cowboys by 14
Texas A&M is at Colorado where the Buffs are favored by 3. Actually, this is a 'toss up' game since each team is a little hard to figure this year. UPSET TxA&M by 3
The Red River Rivalry kicks off in the Cotton field in Dallas where Texas is favored by 14 - I think that's about right. Texas by 14
Now then, Texas Tech brings it's spread offense to Tom Osborne Field this weekend and are favored by 4. TxTech's first away from home game and they're favored by 4 - ?? I HOPE we have these guys "sliced and diced" by the end of the 3rd quarter. I'm probably letting my heart dominate my head but, another UPSET - NU by 10
OK HUSKER FANS, see you after the game!!!

WOW - Another Nail-Biter

2005-10-03T06:56:00.000-07:00

But this one was a heckuva lot more satisfying!! Offense showed REAL improvement and the defense continued it's dominance. I believe the coaches and players took full advantage of their 'off week'.
I think this was a GREAT win since, in my opinion, a loss may have caused a lot of questioning not only within the multitude of us fans that still cain't get over the change in offense but also among the players themselves. This team appears to believe in the system and the coaches and that means the Huskers could be a 'coin-toss' in the rest of their conference games.
To the players and the coaches - BRAVO.

Cyclone Warning - Week 5

2005-09-29T08:40:00.000-07:00

Was that game Tuesday night (Toledo & Fresno?) the first game of week 5 or was it the last game of week 4 ? Maybe last night's Cinncinnati/Miami (OH) kicked off week 5 ? In any case, the BIG XII gets "down to it" this week and Coach Callahan says the offense just has to "rev it up" - that might qualify as an understatement.

The view and the rumors bouncing around the hills here in Tulsa would lead any sane fan to worry about their team going into this week end. ISU had a TOUGH time with Army last week (were they looking ahead to NEBRASKA?) and must travel to Lincoln. OSU hasn't shown any offense yet this fall but is home against the Buffalos. OU should have ducked a couple of times instead of fumbling but will be defending its 1-2 record at home against KSU. Tulsa, after losing badly to Minnesota, gave OU all it wanted and has won 2 straight.

Tulsa is also at home, taking on Houston tomorrow night. Houston has been in town all week hiding from Hurricane Rita - should be a good game unless the wind blows - Tulsa by 3.
OU has to start showing some determination / heart / guts, something or they are headed to depths uncharted during the Stooperier era - OU by 10 .
OSU, like another team we all know, has to find an offense or they will find Buffalo tracks across their posterior - just being part of the BIG XII South could be worth 7 points (not enough) - Colorado by 6.
Alright - alright - I'm gettin' to it!! If an extra week of preparation (and I mean football preparation, not the 'H' kind) doesn't improve offensive preformance, well, it's just gonna be down right offensive!! In which case, look for the West Coast to sue Coach Callahan over misuse of offense - Huskers by 4.

Week 4 = Week Off

2005-09-22T06:28:00.000-07:00

Half the BIG XII is off this week. Should probably say 'Half the BIG XII doesn't have a game this week' since half the BIG XII hasn't been 'ON' for 3 weeks now.
Nice to see Boise State get back to winning on the BLUE TURF. Some so-called premier program with coaching problems is gonna come calling on Coach Hawkins in the near future!!!
Rather than 'risk it' with Hurricane Rita, Texas A&M has moved their game with Texas State from Saturday up to tonight - TxA&M by 38.
Iowa State travals to Army (who has already lost to Boston College and Baylor) Friday night - ISU by 31.
Colorado visits Miami (Fla) this weekend where the 'Canes are expected to be rather rude hosts. Somebody said CU's Barnett can coach - must have been Barnett - Miami by 20.
Texas Tech hosts - Indiana State ? - still tryin' for that 100 point game - TxTech by 65.
This Saturday is Band Day at Kansas State and North Texas University will be there to beat their drum - NTU by 3.

Tulsa hosts Memphis Saturday for their first ever Conference USA game. Depth problems once again a problem at TU - one sprained ankle could cause position changes at 4 or 5 spots. This coaching staff does a very good job with what it's got. Considering they are surrounded by D-1 U's with much better facilities and lower academic requirements, they still manage to get some pretty fair athletes and they coach them very well. During a certain A.D.'s search for a head coach, I know that Tulsa's Coach Kragthorpe was strongly recommended - TU by 3.
Arkansas, still reeling from last weekends slaughter, travels to Alabama. Some have said Athletic Director Broyles remains 'pleased' with Coach Nutt because Nutt is no threat to break Broyles record as the Razorbacks best coach. Some are probably correct - Bama by 14.

OK HUSKER FANS - what do the Huskers have to 'straighten' out on order to threaten anybody in the BIG XII ?? So far, the offensive line and tight ends have had a lot more problems than I had expected. Doesn't appear the coaches expected this much trouble either - 3 games and still a lot of rumblin', stumblin', and bumblin' goin' on. Not saying those guys are THE problem - sure a lot of dropped or missed passes and penalties.
While the offense looks like it has only had a couple weeks of practice, the defense has at least been something to smile about. Although the first 3 opponents are not what I'd call stellar competition, Husker defense has been impressive and appears to have even more potential. It's just that if the offense doesn't step up, I don't believe the defense can win 3 more games for the team.
SEE YA NEXT WEEK......

Pitt post-game reaction

2005-09-19T08:25:00.000-07:00

Ugh. What a great finish, but what an ugly game to watch. I don't doubt Nebraska's defense, but the 7-6 score had more to do with bad offense than good defense. Still, 3-0 is 3-0, and Nebraska will enter October undefeated.

The good news:

Nebraska's defense, particularly the front seven, is a beast. Nebraska can win a lot of games with this D.
The offensive line played better. The running game was improved against the best defense we've played (which still isn't saying much).
Cody Glenn should be playing more. He looks like a hammer. I'd like to see him get all the carries in short-yardage and play more with Ross in two-back sets. A few inside running plays to a fullback like Glenn would give defenses something else to worry about.
Cory Ross has as much heart as anybody and plenty of talent to go with it.

The bad news:

Cozgrove almost lost the game playing prevent at the end. You can't play prevent when a field goal can beat you. If Nebraska had rushed just the normal four, Pitt would have NEVER gotten a game-winning kick attempt(s).
Zac Taylor holds the ball far too long. After three games, a team basically is what it is...and right now the offense is terrible. Taylor is accurate when his receivers are open. Maybe if Taylor wasn't required to make a thousand reads on each play, he could make use of his accuracy. Taylor is most accurate when throwing deep...so why isn't Nebraska throwing deep?
The offense, overall, is terrible. Nebraska has the kind of defense that can keep the team in almost any game...and the kind of offense that could cause the team to lose any game as well. It seems Nebraska's strength on offense are its running backs and Taylor's ability to throw deep. Why not use them? It is time to make full use of this stable of good running backs and stop trying to force feed the ball to receivers who don't appear to be ready to carry the load.

Taking away defensive scores, Nebraska is averaging 14 points per game. Against Division 1-A competition, Nebraska's offense is averaging 8.5 points per game. Nebraska's improvement on defense is extremely impressive, but this offense won't cut it in the Big 12. If Nebraska's passing game doesn't improve, Callahan will need to swallow his pride and run the ball 40-50 times a game just to survive against teams like Texas Tech.

It is going to be an interesting ride...

More Band-Aids please !!

2005-09-17T16:36:00.001-07:00

Have chewed my finger nails down to the first knuckle!!!! Thanks, Coz.......
What a GREAT DEFENSIVE EFFORT - AGAIN. And what a lousy offensive showing - again!! One thing, if OU had the Huskers defense, they'd be 3-0 instead of 1-2.

I about came unglued when Coz put the team into a prevent defense. Good criminey - Pitt only needed a dad gum field goal to win it so why not keep puttin' pressure on like they had all game?? (INSERT 'I AINT NO COACH' HERE) Guess he just wanted another opportunity to practice field goal blockin' - did I say they put up a GREAT DEFENSIVE EFFORT - again?? It's just that my old ticker doesn't need that kind'a stress -!!

OK, OK, I'm trying to settle down here - - but when is this vaunted west coast offense gonna start showing something other than - well- nothin' ???? Still 'holding back' to surprise'em when conference play begins?? I don't think soooo - so hang on every body - it's gonna be a tough season (hope my finger nails grow back by next game)!!!!!!!!

Thursday means it's FOOTBALL week 3

2005-09-15T05:32:00.000-07:00

Tonight it's UTAH at TCU (you know, the team that beat OU then lost to SMU who lost to Baylor) - Doubt the locals are gonna want to watch this!! UTAH by 6.
I'm sure y'all hear a lot of 'Husker Homer' comments from your local sports talk shows so here's a few from the Hillbilly Homers: "OU is playing with a LOT of young athletes this year". Ahh yeah, but isn't yer coach gettin' $3 mil a year to mix in a few juniors?? Hillbilly Homer: "Hey, I was the first to reference the offensive coordinator as Chuck 'third and' Long." Now THAT is a good one. UCLA by 9.
Tulsa goes to No.Texas State and faces a tandem of great runners - sigh, Mean Green by 4.
Ark. State at OkState where they have settled on red shirt freshman Bobby Reid as QB. This is the last stop on OSU's Backwoods Tour. OSU by 24.
Arkansas Razorbacks at USC - Houston, we have about 22 problems - USC by 28.

PITT at NEBRASKA - now why didn't ABC start the OU/UCLA game a little later in the day and televise them back to back?? That way, I would be able to watch them BOTH. So, I'll be listening to the Huskers and watching the OU/UCLA game.

Maybe this is the week the offense quits tripping over itself and starts plastering the opponent all over the field. Maybe this is the week that the Head Coach and the Offensive Coordinator get on the same page and manage the same game at the same time-?? Maybe this is a match up of A.D. Pederson's 1st choice against his - ahh - 'fall in his lap' selection?? No maybe's about the Husker defense - Huskers by 17.

Let's play ball !!!!!!!!

Pitt analysis and prediction

2005-09-13T12:51:00.000-07:00

This is a very dangerous week for Nebraska. This will be the first game of the season the Huskers play as heavy favorites against a team with the talent to beat them. The most dangerous thing about this game is that all the goodwill generated by the win over Wake Forest and the 2-0 start will be gone if Nebraska loses to a team Frank Solich just defeated. Ohio vs. Pitt is very relevant to Nebraska vs. Pitt, unless somebody wants to argue that Ohio has more talent than Nebraska?

Pitt is cornered and desperate for a win. With such a young team, Nebraska is susceptible to overconfidence after starting 2-0. Plus, although they're 0-2, Pitt is the most talented team Nebraska has faced thus far. Nebraska will get some turnovers from Pitt. Even when he's playing well, Palko is a risk-taker. He'll give up the ball at times even when playing well. Basically, if Palko isn't hot, I don't see how Pitt can threaten Nebraska because they won't be able to run consistently against our front seven. My biggest fear is that Palko will hit some big plays against our secondary, which is weaker than it appears.

I'm also worried about Callahan uncorking some ill-conceived "40 passes-no matter what" gameplan, similar to what he did against Iowa State last season. The overconfidence of playing a struggling 0-2 team just might entice Callahan do something foolish. Plus, you know Callahan would like nothing better than to see his recruit at QB throw for 300 yards. On the other hand, the "Wannstedt Factor" almost precludes any team from being outcoached by Pitt...so any mistake Callahan makes will almost certainly be matched or exceeded by Pitt!

I'm going to go with Nebraska winning 27-17.

Wake Forest analysis

2005-09-12T07:20:00.000-07:00

I'm pleased to say I was completely wrong in my prediction for the Wake Forest game (a 24-16 Husker loss)! Lots of improvement and lots of positives from this game, but plenty of negatives as well. The good news:

1) The defense is for real. Although Wake Forest will not be confused with Texas or USC, it won't be confused with Maine, either. This was a "real" team with a good offense and a good offensive line, and the Blackshirts dominated them.
2) The Blackshirts are much improved, both in terms of flying around and scheme. Although Coz deserved much of the heat he took last season, this defense looks much better.
3) Specifically, Nebraska's front seven looks to have a combination of strength and play-making ability. The front seven looked extremely well-coached, especially against Wake's bootleg. The Blackshirts are flying around and it's nice to see them punishing QB's again.
4) Zac Taylor doesn't have good numbers, but he improved from game 1. If his receivers would stop dropping passes, he'd probably have 3 more TD's and a much higher completion percentage.
5) The offense finally showed potential in the 3rd quarter.
6) Did I mention the defense? Nebraska might not need an offense if the defense keeps scoring so much. Unfortunately, that's not likely to happen as the season gets tougher.

The bad:
1) The offense looks bad. Receivers have trouble catching, the line has trouble blocking, and Zac Taylor still throws too many potential INT's.
2) Callahan's playcalling is still confusing. There's too much passing near the goal line and too many obvious passing formations in these situations. If you're going to pass, at least fake the run.
3) The defensive backfield looks shaky at times. It didn't hurt much against Wake Forest, but Texas Tech and others await.

Overall, though, a HUGE improvement from the first game. The main thing I wanted to see this season was improvement from each game after regressing throughout last season. If Nebraska can continue to improve each game, the Huskers might really have something by the end of the season.

Overall grade: solid "B".

BIG IMPROVEMENT

2005-09-11T07:35:00.000-07:00

BY THE DEFENSE - To be fair, the offense looked better. And, wasn't that a fantastic catch by Mulkey??
Some troubling stats: WF had the ball almost 11 minutes longer than the Huskers, more 1st downs, and more total yardage but they sure lost the defensive scoring catagory -!!
Now, a little from around the country - May be Vanderbilt isn't so bad after all - they went into WF and won then traveled to the mighty Razorbacks AND WON!! Texas appears to be the real deal but OU doesn't. The wind from the TU Hurricane gave'em about all they could handle - AT HOME. Pitt looks pitiful and Missouri is back to its old tricks.
But after watching ISU hand it to Iowa, I think we all know the Huskers HAVE to keep improving.
GREAT GAME, BLACKSHIRTS !! Next week, do we get to see the offense ??

WOW - WHAT A GAME

2005-09-09T08:15:00.000-07:00

No, NO, NO!! The HIGH SCHOOL GAME!!. SIX (6) touchdowns scored in the last quarter (4 by Jenks and 2 by Union) and Jenks wins it 48 - 44 with 18 seconds left in front of over 15,000 fans. These two will more than likely play each other for the state championship come December.

Hey, OSU's defense showed some very nice improvement from Saturday and blew my prediction to smithereens. Offense still has some consistency issues (kind'a like another team we know about - I could'a said "team we're familiar with" but some of you might have gotten the WRONG IDEA).

Well, here's hoping the HUSKERS make mucho (a little spanish for you there in Omaha) progress from last week and POUND THE DEMON DEACONS.

The Second Week Begins - -

2005-09-08T06:57:00.000-07:00

The BIG excitement here is - - A HIGH SCHOOL GAME - - Jenks and Union square off tonight in their annual showdown at Skelly Stadium. There will probably be as many people in the stadium as there was for the Tulsa University / Minnesota game. These are 2 GREAT high school teams - they each have alumns that have gone on to be HUSKERS!

Pickens State -er, ah, Oklahoma State goes to Florida Atlantic tonight (ESPN2) and is expected to win but I'm not so sure. Short preparation time and they have to travel a loonng distance - hell, their equipment left by bus 2 days ago - FAU by 3.
OU stays home against Tulsa on Saturday and should win by 20. I mean, after Tulsa's showing against Minnysooota, the Sooners should 'get well' this week - even with the on going soap opera of 2 offensive linemen quitting the team, rejoining the team then quitting again - for good this time. You guys think Callahan has problems -

The Tulsa Whirled has also made it's weekly predictions - and I quote:
ND @ Mich - some creative play calling a distinct possibility - Mich by 3.
Iowa at Iowa State - BIG XII nightmare, one of its teams is caught on camera - Iowa by 10.
Texas @ Ohio State - Longhorn QB has catapult for arm but wooden throwing motion - Ohio Stae by 7.
So. Carolina @ Georgia - Spurrier too old for visor throw and gets tennis (visor) elbow - Georgia by 21.
Wake Forest @ Nebraska - Is Nebraska back? About as far back as it can get without a coach - Nebraska by 9.

Hey folks, I'm just quoting the paper - Hmmm??

Wake Forest analysis and prediction

2005-09-07T06:43:00.000-07:00

We have 23 Wake Forest predictions so far in The Independent's Husker Forum. 18 win predictions, 5 loss predictions, average prediction score: NU wins 26-15. When did it get to the point that a group of rabid Husker fans (if you are on a Husker football board you probably qualify for that distinction) would collectively predict Nebraska would beat a team coming off a 4-7 season and a loss at home to Vanderbilt in its opener to win by only 10 points in Lincoln? We've talked a lot about expectations on the board. Doesn't beating a 4-7 team that lost to Vandy at home qualify as mediocrity? Don't get me wrong, I'd be happy with any win this weekend, but that's the point! Even in 2002, a close win over WF at home would be reason to grumble. Now it's reason to celebrate. Regardless of what you think of Callahan, Solich, or even Pederson...obviously the change has led to lowered expectations. I thought all the changes were made to raise expectations?!

As for the game itself, it is an interesting matchup. Strength vs. strength in our run defense vs. WF's running game. The only thing that has improved under Cally and Coz is run defense, believe it or not. (It's true...Nebraska's run defense has been statistically better under Coz than under Pelini or Bohl). Wake's defense did not look good against Vandy, which is not exactly an offensive juggernaut. On the other hand, Nebraska's offense looked even worse against 1AA Maine. I think the matchup of Nebraska's offense vs. WF's defense will tell the story because these are the weakest units. After watching Nebraska turn the ball over in 12 straight games under Callahan, I think the offense will once again put our defense in too many bad positions and WF's running game will wear us down. Look for a big play action pass completion by WF off the option fake against our defense at a key moment. I know Jim Grobe is a better coach than Coz and I think this will be exploited. Again, I hope I'm completely wrong.

Official prediction: WF 24 NU 16 :-(

(Last week's prediction: NU 66 Maine 23)

TUESDAY AFTERNo . . er, morning

2005-09-06T07:26:00.000-07:00

You know things aren't all that rosy in sooner land when you open the sports section to the BIG XII page of the Tulsa Whirled and they've got a large picture of ZAC TAYLOR!!! (course, he's from Norman, OK and that explains some of it). Taylor was 11 of 15 during 1st half and 15 of 36 overall - just 4 completions in the 2nd half?? sheesh
When NU went up 25 to 7 and it was pretty obvious Maine wasn't gonna do much against our defense, anybody else (other than me) wonder "why not get the #2 QB some reps?".

STATS: NU dang near the bottom in total offense - only OU was worse and TxTech didn't play.
NU at the TOP in total defense, Hardy leading the league in receiving and Nunn leading the league in punt returns.

Saw some improvements from last year, albeit against a D2 team, but this still isn't what I expect from the Huskers - we ARE NOT a dominant team and I'm concerned that we may be a long way from ever getting there.

This is kinda like a hang over

2005-09-04T07:21:00.000-07:00

"French Connection" is on AMCTV right now and I'd rather be watching that than trying to find excuses - but.
I haven't gone on-line and read anything YET - I'm posting here from what I heard by web-cast last night and from what I read in this morning's Tulsa Whirled (the 'Whirled' is a leftist rag that spends as much time on Arkansas U as it does on Tulsa U). The only thing listed in the paper about NU is the score, score by quarters and a few statistics.
WOW - 5 turnovers, no running game, lack of third down consistency and a lack luster offensive showing. At the end of the 1st half, we didn't even have an edge in time of possession. But, other than Texas and Missouri, what BIG XII team showed much?? And a BUNCH of the competition was Div.2AA - sheesh.
In an effort to find something to 'hang onto', it does appear the team has a lot of good young talent and the defense 'sounded' as if it did pretty well (record sack total). Maybe they haven't practied on the running game very much - maybe they've spent too much time on the passing game, maybe they aren't much better than last year AND maybe the staff doesn't know how to get the best out of'em - Lord, I don't know but it was sure a frustrating game to listen to.
How about this as hope for the future - Last year, we had a BIG score in the first game but didn't do all that well the rest of the way. Maybe this year will be the opposite. Further, our next 2 opponents were each whupped this week end - maybe we can improve enough to keep them that way - maybe!!!!!!

Reaction to the Maine game

2005-09-03T21:24:00.000-07:00

I'm completely without hope right now. I predicted a 40 point win; not because I had great expectations for Nebraska this season (I predicted 8 wins), but because of the opponent. It was Maine, a below average 1AA team. We're looking at a losing season. No sunshine pumping, okay? We played a horrible team and actually was in danger of losing in the 4th quarter at one point. The problems from the Maine game:

1) Why is Callahan throwing three straight times from the 1-yard line? Inexcusable. More than a minute left in the half...time was NOT a concern.
2) Why couldn't we run the ball?
3) Cosgrove still used the off-man coverage very often, especially on third down. He's learned nothing from last season.
4) The turnover problem is still not fixed.
5) The 3rd down conversion rate has still not improved.
6) New problem: receivers can't catch and runners can't hold onto the ball.

Good news? Uh...punt returns have improved...but now the returners fumble. And our D-linemen are definitely better than Division 1AA O-linemen.

I don't want to hear Sunshine Pumping after this game. There's no excuse for the coaches. Nebraska has 20 times the talent of Maine. I'm afraid another losing season is upon us. This is why Steve Pederson got rid of a 10-win staff?

:(

Blogging the first Saturday

2005-09-03T10:03:00.000-07:00

OK, I am going to blog this entire day with all the different games I watch, and here are a few of them right now:

OU v TCU : Can you believe that OU is still scoreless? Maybe there offense is going to go thru some rough spots with a new QB.

Wisconsin v Bowling Green : Where is that vaunted defense by Bret Biemela (sp)? I would like to know. It was great last year, and they are looking like they are regressing.

Ohio v Northwestern : Not sure what to make of this, however, you would think Solich would be able to see QB draw up the middle. He was not, and Northwestern gained great yardage. However, it does look like Ohio's D is good.

Those are the ones I am watching at this present. Keep checking back and I will keep adding to this.

Fears about Maine...

2005-09-02T09:12:00.000-07:00

No, I don't think Nebraska will lose or even be challenged against Maine. Most of the veterans probably realize a win over Maine doesn't prove much of anything. However, I'm concerned the newcomers are going to develop a false sense of accomplishment based on the blowout they are going to help inflict on Maine. Many of the newcomers probably won't realize their performance against Maine isn't going to tell them anything about how they will perform against future opponents...even Wake Forest next week.

The biggest challenge the coaches will face this week will be to make sure the newcomers take their own performance against a 1-AA opponent with a couple of hundred grains of salt.

1st game jitters

2005-09-02T05:47:00.000-07:00

Well, that was nice. Tulsa has one of their largest crowds ever, all dressed in BLUE and they went home BLUE all the way THRU. The Golden Rodents snuffed the Hurricane 41 to 10. That Maroney kid whupped up on the Canes pretty much all by himself.
Speaking of embarrassing, how about that Oregon & Houston game. Heck, the high school games here in Tulsa draw more of a crowd than Houston U could muster. That was pitiful. How would you like to be a coach at a place like that where you could not get any body to show up. The fact that it was at Reliant rather than on campus should not have mattered. At least the team showed up for about a half. Oregon 38, Houston 24.
And, did you get to see the visor throw by Coach Spurrier? That was as entertaining as the game : yawn. The Gamechicks gave the Knights their 16th straight loss.
Some of you out there have some kinda fascination with U Conn. Well, they have yet to be scored on this year, smoked Buffalo 38 to ZIP.
LAWZEE, almost forgot. The ESPN 50 States in 50 Days program will feature Oklahoma tonight, which will feature Oklahoma's PRISON RODEO!!!! Ahem, could it be that ESPN is proving the Callahan explitive deleted hillbilly comment correct ???
So far, all of this is about as relevant as Bob Dylans tuning fork but it helps pass time til the HUSKERS play. SEE YA AFTER THE GAME.

The Black Bear Saturday

2005-09-02T04:30:00.000-07:00

First off, I want to put things in perspective. Football is a great sport, but it is not everything. With the events of the last few days and people starving and needing help in the Hurricane South, please consider helping out in any way possible. Football is fun to watch, but life is more important. Just remember the people who are struggling to stay alive, and help in any way you can.

With that being said, I am going to look to this Saturday and the Black Bears. They have a third year starter at QB who is a passing threat. The Bears will also bring in a Senior backup to share the QB role. This QB is more of a run threat. The QBs will get a split of 75-25 ration of playing time it is estimated. The QBs: Ron Whitcomb (the passer), and Chris Legree (the runner), will see playing time on the field, and will line up on the field at the same time. Yes, that is right. Both QBs will be on the field at once during certain series. They may have one line up at WR, maybe one at a RB in the shotgun formation, or maybe line one in the slot. So how do you defend this?

Well, lucky for us, this is a Div IAA and the threat of a tandem QB system lessens with the stature of this team. Not only are they Div IAA, but they also have won 11 games over the last two seasons. Sure it will be tricky at times, and sure these Black Bears are the very same that beat Mississippi State last year. But let's not kid ourselves here. The Black Bears have a QB that can throw, and a QB that can run. At times, they will be on the field at the same time. Sometimes in the same backfield. Now the Blackshirts will have to figure out who is going to be the "QB" and who is going to do the "other". The plays that the Blackshirts will have to watch out for is when they get in a shotgun format, and Legree takes an option and either runs or passes the ball. That will be the play to watch.

As for the game though, it will not be close. Unless of course, Callahan decides to only play his starters and second string in the first quarter alone. Then we may get into a closer game, but still not a nail biter.

Some Stats on the Black Bears:
63rd in IAA in Total Offense with 352 YPG
98th in IAA in Total Defense giving up 405 YPG
Pass Defense ranked 109 out of 117 teams giving up 247 YPG in the air
Rush Defense ranked 69 out of 117 teams giving up 158 YPG on the ground
Average score last year was Maine 29 (34th in Div IAA) - Opp 26 (73rd in Div IAA)
They won/lost 6 games last year by 7 or less points
They shut out one team (Northern Colorado) last year (38-0)

My prediction of the game? This will be a good scrimmage for both teams. Maine will get to go against some developing IA talent, and the Huskers get to hit non Huskers for a change. With the top 2 teams playing in the first half and the second stringers getting pulled in the 3rd, I think the score will be around, 68-10.

IT STARTS TONITE

2005-09-01T06:20:00.000-07:00

Two thirds of 2005 has come and gone so now it MUST BE TIME FOR SOME FOOTBALL!!
A number of games kick off tonight : Oregon @ Houston begins around 4:00 P.M.; Oregon wins this one by 7. And, right here in good old Tulsa around 7:30, TU will take on Minnesota (that would be Golden Gophers for you there in Lexington) : look for the Golden rodents to have a tough time with the Golden Hurricane but will win by 6. Then Friday, Arizona goes to Utah : this will be a tough one, veins on Mike Stoops neck will be seen from that Japanese blimp : upset AZ by 1.

Saturday, OU takes on the mighty Horned Frogs from TCU. OU has now lost their #1 defensive end to a season ending injury and now their #1 offensive right tackle has quit the team (yesterday). The arrogance on Stooperiers face could just be a mask to hide his real concerns for this season, but not this game : OU by 24.

OSU also stays at home, opening up Saturday night with a spread, no huddle offense against the Bobcats from Montana. Now we get to see if Coach Gumbys , er , Gundys new offense can master a NCAA Div.1AA foe, ah, yeah right : OSU by 31.

Speaking of NCAA Div. 1AA and Saturday night, my favorite team kicks the season off at home against da Bears, no, NOT the ones from Chicago but the ones from Maine. This is gonna be similar to Goldilocks 900# daddy doing a heck of a lot more than sleeping in their beds or eating their porridge : NU wins by 38.

The Past is Past

2005-08-30T18:00:00.000-07:00

There is that old saying "If you do not learn from the past, you are doomed to repeat it". We have seen that come true in the Husker history. You take the Huskers for granted, and they will make that 2 point conversion to go up and win their first National Championship since the 70's. You take that same team lightly the following year, and they will scorch you for 62 points while the QB runs for a few yards shy of 200, and breaks tackles from the entire defense on one play alone.

Fast forward a few years and you have a QB that can do almost anything by himself. He can run for 102 yards on one play alone, catch a pass for the go ahead TD, and win the Heisman. Problem is, the QB did most of the work. Then you have a new QB come in, barely any experience, and leads the team to a 7-7 record the first year as a starter. Then the following year, leads the team to a 10-3 record. But that is his last year. What about the next "great" QB? Barely any playing time, and the head coach gets fired. Now here's the tricky part.

A new head coach comes to lead the team. Sure he has a Super Bowl appearance as a rookie coach, won multiple awards his first year, then the second year the team disintegrates. It is no help that his boss is Al Davis, but is fired just the same. In steps the opportunity in Lincoln. After a few miscues and, uh, slips of the tongue, the Huskers do something they have not done in 40+ years. They miss out of playing in December or January. So where do we go from here?

The defense was atrocious last year. The Offense turned the ball over way too much. The special teams were not so special. And every fan has some reason for the record. And the way I see it, every Big Red fan has one of three choices. We can either live in the glorified past of Devaney, Osborne, and yes even the first few years of the Solich era; they can live in the past of Callahan's failures and Cosgrove's stubbornness; or they can revere the past and gear up for the season starting this Saturday.

You see, Callahan changed. He changed the workouts, his tone, the coaching assignments, and even his media speak. Cosgrove changed his base defense. The QB has changed. The team attitude has changed. There is change. This whole experiment has changed the University. Callahan did learn from the past. He learned from his failings in Oakland, he learned from last year. How much is yet to be seen. But as the saying promises, if you do not learn from history, you will be doomed to repeat it. There is also a flip side to that. Those who only live in the past, will be doomed. Period. Don't believe me? Try driving your car forward by only looking in the rear view mirror.

Go Big Red.

2005 Huskers

2005-08-30T15:59:00.000-07:00

As I type the season opener is just 4 days away. The scrimmage against Maine won't tell us much of anything (remember WIU last season!), so here are the first two things to look for against Wake Forest and beyond:

1) These coaches can obviously recruit, now can they do of good job of in-game coaching? Last season saw Callahan sometimes throw too often when running would have won the game, Cosgrove insist on using man-to-man when his players were suited to playing zone, and a general lack of in-game adjustments. On the other hand, the coaches were in a tough situation during a transition season.

2) Chemistry was a big issue last season. How will the team react this season once the waters get a little choppy after a loss, especially with all the new, young players on the roster?

There's my first blog entry of the season...can't wait to talk about some games!!!

The Season Begins With Wake Forest

2005-08-30T13:37:00.000-07:00

It's nice to start with a 1AA tuneup, but the season really starts on 9/10/05.

Wake Forest is a well coached ACC team with 9 returning starters on offense. They have a strong ground game and will be an excellent early season test for the inexperienced Husker squad. Last year, they were ahead of both Virgina Tech and Florida State with less than 5 minutes to go in the 4th quarter.

Many Husker fans will be expecting a blowout. Come on! It's Wake Forest! Not so fast, my red clad friends. This one could go either way. Regardless of the outcome, we'll know a lot more about the 2005 Huskers after this game.

If we blow them out as expected, look for the start of a new streak of 9 or more wins per season. If it's close, it could lead to another Oakland Raider-like meltdown for Callahan and another subpar season.

Lose to Wake Forest and we'll be lucky to go 3-8.

Husker fan - in Okie land

2005-08-30T11:51:00.000-07:00

Once again we're hoping for a tremendous start to the season. Now, if I can re-establish the radio link with HuskerPedia like I did last year, I can listen to the play by play. One thing that was nice about that last year was that I never heard any commercials - just every once in a while it would go silent - nice!!!!

O K nozzleheads! My grotesquely rapacious pick for this week end is NU 53 Maine 9 !! Let's get this maelstrom of malevolent and misdirected mayhem started! -OOPS - hey what time's the game start ???

Uh.... Hello.....Uh....Anyone home

2005-08-30T11:34:00.000-07:00

Hey, this works and stuff.