2008 Position Breakdown: Tight End
Position Overview: Tight ends were never a significant means of production during the Bill Callahan regime. While this partly had to do with the fact that there were few dangerous options at the position – especially after Matt Herian went down to injury – it also represented a Callahan preference to throw the ball to wide receivers and running backs. How will this change with Shawn Watson calling the shots on offense? Time will tell.
Though this isn’t a position stocked with talent, sophomore Mike McNeill has turned the heads of the coaching staff as a potential difference maker in the passing game. McNeill brings speed to the position not seen since Herian’s glory days. Whether he can be a breakout weapon in the passing game remains to be seen.
Likely backing McNeill will be senior Hunter Teafatiller. Teafatiller has shown good hands on the field, but questionable judgment off of it. Assuming he can show some more maturity, Teafatiller is the Huskers’ most complete option at tight end. Behind McNeill and Teafatiller are sophomore Dreu Young and redshirt freshman Ryan Hill. Both are fairly unknown qualities, though Young did have one catch last year and reportedly had a strong spring.
Reason for optimism: McNeill, Hill and a few true freshmen (see “New Blood” below) raise Husker hopes that this position has a brighter future ahead. McNeill especially could be a breakout performer in 2008 and may provide match up problems for opposing defenses.
Reason for concern: From Todd Millikan to Gerald Armstrong to Johnny Mitchell to Sheldon Jackson to Tracey Wistrom, the Cornhuskers always possessed a legitimate threat at the tight end position. However, since Matt Herian’s unfortunate leg injury, NU tight ends have had nothing more than a minor role in the offense. Though there is some young hope, a talent upgrade is still needed here.
New blood: Ben Cotton was headed to Louisville until his pop got a nice job offer in Lincoln. The result was two Cottons for the price of one. Expect the younger Cotton to redshirt while hitting the weight room in 2008. Junior college transfer Tyson Hetzer enrolled to NU in January, but missed spring practice (and will miss at least part of Fall Camp) due to a knee injury. If healthy, Hetzer will bring some good size to the position. Kyler Reed, a true freshman out of Kansas is listed as a fullback on the team’s fall roster, but may add some athleticism to the tight end spot as well.
What to expect in ’08: There’s really nowhere to go but up for the Husker tight ends. However, if receiving threats do emerge, one only need look as far as Columbia, Missouri to see how much of an impact strong tight ends can have on an offense. McNeill’s progress will ultimately dictate how successful this position is in 2008.
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Monday, August 4, 2008
2008 Position Breakdown: Offensive Line
2008 Position Breakdown: Offensive Line
Position Overview: The big bodies are in place for the 2008 version of the NU offensive line to be outstanding. Perhaps nowhere else on the Cornhusker depth chart is there as much quality depth as on the line (running backs…maybe). Start with seniors Mike Huff and Matt Slauson at guard. Huff is a steady, if not spectacular, veteran, while a slimmed-down Slauson is still a big, physical mother who should be in his element leading the charge in a much more head-knocking running attack.
Sophomore Keith Williams will be the top back-up at guard and will push Huff for a starter’s spot throughout Fall Camp. Coaches and fellow linemen can’t say enough good things about Williams’ size, explosiveness and footwork. Fellow soph., D.J. Jones will also provide quality depth at guard. The line won’t drop off much when Williams and Jones, a highly-touted recruit out of Omaha, sub in.
Oft-injured Lydon Murtha will take a few steps to his left and replace Carl Nicks at the left tackle position in 2008. Since he arrived in Lincoln, Murtha has had coaches and pro scouts drooling with his measurables. A lean, graceful 6-7, 315 lbs. with long arms, Murtha is a prototypical NFL left tackle, and could play himself into being a first round draft pick next April. For all his physical abilities, Murtha has to prove he wants it bad enough to be an All-American caliber lineman. If new O-Line Coach Barney Cotton can help Murtha’s performance catch up to his physical skills, the Husker offense will be awfully hard to stop.
True sophomore Javorio Burkes showed “sky is the limit” kind of ability after burning his redshirt at the end of 2007. Burkes shows nice footwork for his size and possesses freakishly long arms (a big plus at the tackle position). Conditioning could be the only thing to hold Burkes back during his sophomore season. Sophomore Mike Smith will get the bulk of snaps backing up Murtha and Burkes, while redshirt freshman Marcel Jones will get his feet wet as well. Both Smith and Jones are rangy and athletic options.
The center position belongs to junior Jacob Hickman. While not the most powerful member of the Husker line, Hickman makes up for it with technique and quickness off the ball. Relative unknown redshirt freshman Mike Caputo came out of spring football as the second teamer at center. This appears to be the one spot on the line where depth is somewhat lacking, however new Juco recruit Ricky Henry could impress enough during the fall to stabilize this position.
Reason for optimism: Like the running back position, the offensive line is an impressive mixture of experience and talented youth. Burkes, Williams, D.J. Jones and Smith are all sophomores. The Husker line could be good for a long time.
Reason for concern: Last season, the line excelled in pass protection, but less “Husker-like” when the team needed to grind out a three-yard-gain. Part of this was Callahan play calling. Part of it was that the defense often put a lot of pressure on the offense to score quickly. The talent and coaching appears to be in place for this to be a good run blocking line, but they will have to prove it.
New blood: If he can learn the system fairly quickly, Henry can provide instant help at guard and center. With so much quality depth ahead of him, scholarship recruit Brandon Thompson out of Texas will likely redshirt. It also appears, for now, that 5-star recruit Baker Steinkuhler will start out on defense, though this could change.
What to expect in ’08: This could be the most talented and deep Husker offensive line since 2001. While the depth is fairly young, Williams, D.J. Jones and Smith are each entering their third year in the system. Murtha and Slauson have NFL potential, while Huff and Hickman are heady veterans. If this group stays healthy and lives up to its potential, a Big 12 title is not an unreasonable goal.
Position Overview: The big bodies are in place for the 2008 version of the NU offensive line to be outstanding. Perhaps nowhere else on the Cornhusker depth chart is there as much quality depth as on the line (running backs…maybe). Start with seniors Mike Huff and Matt Slauson at guard. Huff is a steady, if not spectacular, veteran, while a slimmed-down Slauson is still a big, physical mother who should be in his element leading the charge in a much more head-knocking running attack.
Sophomore Keith Williams will be the top back-up at guard and will push Huff for a starter’s spot throughout Fall Camp. Coaches and fellow linemen can’t say enough good things about Williams’ size, explosiveness and footwork. Fellow soph., D.J. Jones will also provide quality depth at guard. The line won’t drop off much when Williams and Jones, a highly-touted recruit out of Omaha, sub in.
Oft-injured Lydon Murtha will take a few steps to his left and replace Carl Nicks at the left tackle position in 2008. Since he arrived in Lincoln, Murtha has had coaches and pro scouts drooling with his measurables. A lean, graceful 6-7, 315 lbs. with long arms, Murtha is a prototypical NFL left tackle, and could play himself into being a first round draft pick next April. For all his physical abilities, Murtha has to prove he wants it bad enough to be an All-American caliber lineman. If new O-Line Coach Barney Cotton can help Murtha’s performance catch up to his physical skills, the Husker offense will be awfully hard to stop.
True sophomore Javorio Burkes showed “sky is the limit” kind of ability after burning his redshirt at the end of 2007. Burkes shows nice footwork for his size and possesses freakishly long arms (a big plus at the tackle position). Conditioning could be the only thing to hold Burkes back during his sophomore season. Sophomore Mike Smith will get the bulk of snaps backing up Murtha and Burkes, while redshirt freshman Marcel Jones will get his feet wet as well. Both Smith and Jones are rangy and athletic options.
The center position belongs to junior Jacob Hickman. While not the most powerful member of the Husker line, Hickman makes up for it with technique and quickness off the ball. Relative unknown redshirt freshman Mike Caputo came out of spring football as the second teamer at center. This appears to be the one spot on the line where depth is somewhat lacking, however new Juco recruit Ricky Henry could impress enough during the fall to stabilize this position.
Reason for optimism: Like the running back position, the offensive line is an impressive mixture of experience and talented youth. Burkes, Williams, D.J. Jones and Smith are all sophomores. The Husker line could be good for a long time.
Reason for concern: Last season, the line excelled in pass protection, but less “Husker-like” when the team needed to grind out a three-yard-gain. Part of this was Callahan play calling. Part of it was that the defense often put a lot of pressure on the offense to score quickly. The talent and coaching appears to be in place for this to be a good run blocking line, but they will have to prove it.
New blood: If he can learn the system fairly quickly, Henry can provide instant help at guard and center. With so much quality depth ahead of him, scholarship recruit Brandon Thompson out of Texas will likely redshirt. It also appears, for now, that 5-star recruit Baker Steinkuhler will start out on defense, though this could change.
What to expect in ’08: This could be the most talented and deep Husker offensive line since 2001. While the depth is fairly young, Williams, D.J. Jones and Smith are each entering their third year in the system. Murtha and Slauson have NFL potential, while Huff and Hickman are heady veterans. If this group stays healthy and lives up to its potential, a Big 12 title is not an unreasonable goal.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
2008 Position Breakdown: Receivers
2008 Position Breakdown: Wide Receivers
Position Overview: The most impactful personnel losses on the offense happened at wide receiver, where productive wideouts Maurice Purify, Terrence Nunn and Frantz Hardy completed their eligibility. Purify and Nunn especially were vital parts of the Husker passing game. In 2008, steady, experienced receivers Nate Swift and Todd Peterson return, but others will have to step up in order for the NU passing game to be a legitimate threat.
Swift will be a calming presence for the both the quarterbacks and the young receiving corps. A good route runner with better than average speed, he’ll be Joe Ganz’s go-to guy early in the season. Peterson also brings plenty of experience to the receiver position. While not as dynamic as Purify, his big frame and knowledge of the system will cause match up problems for smaller defensive backs.
While Swift and Peterson are known commodities, neither is really a “game-breaker” type of receiver and alone they are not enough for this group to be effective. The hope is one or more of a bevy of young and talented receivers can turn this position from a concern to a competitive advantage. Among those fighting to be the Huskers’ next breakout star are juniors Menelik Holt and Chris Brooks, sophomores Niles Paul and Will Henry and redshirt freshman Curenski Gilleylen.
Of this group, Holt most resembles Purify’s combination of size and athleticism. However, time will tell if he can match Purify’s production. Paul and Gilleylen both possess decent size and the blinding speed to stretch defenses, and with his 6-5 frame and 4.5 speed, Henry may be the most intriguing talent in the group. Brooks is a former blue-chip recruit who now has the opportunity to prove he can live up to his lofty star status. Again, there is plenty of potential here, but in order for NU to have a successful season, potential needs to turn into production.
Reason for optimism: Looking at the receiver situation from a glass-half-full perspective, this group is a good combination of steady veterans and young talent just waiting to explode.
Reason for concern: There were plenty of drops in the spring game. Purify and Nunn arguably had the best hands on the team. All the athleticism in the world doesn’t matter if players can’t catch the ball. This group needs to prove they have the hands to be Big 12-level receivers.
New blood: The incoming class includes WRs Khirry Cooper (assuming he doesn’t sign a contract to play baseball for the L.A. Angels), Steven Osborne and Tim Marlowe. Florida recruit Antonio Bell was still a qualification mystery as of this posting. Of this group, Cooper is the most likely to contribute in 2008 should he opt to remain a collegian.
What to expect in ’08: There was a moment in the spring game when Curenski Gilleylen sped past DB Anthony West and caught a long Joe Ganz toss in stride, and the crowd at Memorial Stadium collectively thought, “Okay, we may be fine at receiver.” Granted, it also may have indicated some issues in the defensive secondary, but we’ll ignore that for now. There’s always something exciting about the unknown, especially when the unknown might be great. That’s the way I feel about the wide receivers. There’s plenty of talent on hand, along with some key returning experience. Hopefully by the time the Virginia Tech Hokies come into Lincoln for the final non-conference game, we’ll have a much better idea who the next great Husker receivers will be.
Position Overview: The most impactful personnel losses on the offense happened at wide receiver, where productive wideouts Maurice Purify, Terrence Nunn and Frantz Hardy completed their eligibility. Purify and Nunn especially were vital parts of the Husker passing game. In 2008, steady, experienced receivers Nate Swift and Todd Peterson return, but others will have to step up in order for the NU passing game to be a legitimate threat.
Swift will be a calming presence for the both the quarterbacks and the young receiving corps. A good route runner with better than average speed, he’ll be Joe Ganz’s go-to guy early in the season. Peterson also brings plenty of experience to the receiver position. While not as dynamic as Purify, his big frame and knowledge of the system will cause match up problems for smaller defensive backs.
While Swift and Peterson are known commodities, neither is really a “game-breaker” type of receiver and alone they are not enough for this group to be effective. The hope is one or more of a bevy of young and talented receivers can turn this position from a concern to a competitive advantage. Among those fighting to be the Huskers’ next breakout star are juniors Menelik Holt and Chris Brooks, sophomores Niles Paul and Will Henry and redshirt freshman Curenski Gilleylen.
Of this group, Holt most resembles Purify’s combination of size and athleticism. However, time will tell if he can match Purify’s production. Paul and Gilleylen both possess decent size and the blinding speed to stretch defenses, and with his 6-5 frame and 4.5 speed, Henry may be the most intriguing talent in the group. Brooks is a former blue-chip recruit who now has the opportunity to prove he can live up to his lofty star status. Again, there is plenty of potential here, but in order for NU to have a successful season, potential needs to turn into production.
Reason for optimism: Looking at the receiver situation from a glass-half-full perspective, this group is a good combination of steady veterans and young talent just waiting to explode.
Reason for concern: There were plenty of drops in the spring game. Purify and Nunn arguably had the best hands on the team. All the athleticism in the world doesn’t matter if players can’t catch the ball. This group needs to prove they have the hands to be Big 12-level receivers.
New blood: The incoming class includes WRs Khirry Cooper (assuming he doesn’t sign a contract to play baseball for the L.A. Angels), Steven Osborne and Tim Marlowe. Florida recruit Antonio Bell was still a qualification mystery as of this posting. Of this group, Cooper is the most likely to contribute in 2008 should he opt to remain a collegian.
What to expect in ’08: There was a moment in the spring game when Curenski Gilleylen sped past DB Anthony West and caught a long Joe Ganz toss in stride, and the crowd at Memorial Stadium collectively thought, “Okay, we may be fine at receiver.” Granted, it also may have indicated some issues in the defensive secondary, but we’ll ignore that for now. There’s always something exciting about the unknown, especially when the unknown might be great. That’s the way I feel about the wide receivers. There’s plenty of talent on hand, along with some key returning experience. Hopefully by the time the Virginia Tech Hokies come into Lincoln for the final non-conference game, we’ll have a much better idea who the next great Husker receivers will be.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
2008 Position Breakdown: Quarterbacks
2008 Position Breakdown: Quarterbacks
Position Overview: The return of starting QB Joe Ganz makes this position a strength for the 2008 version of the Big Red. After waiting patiently on the sidelines for more than three and a half years, Ganz got his shot late in the season and opened some eyes throughout the conference by throwing for more than 1,400 and 16 touchdowns in only three starts. While it’s also true that Ganz threw seven interceptions in those games, those picks seemed to be caused by Ganz trying to force throws to try to keep up with the piles of points being put up by opposing offenses. A more balanced offense with a stronger running attack will put less pressure on Ganz to do it all himself.
More important than the numbers, Ganz displayed strong command of the huddle and the feet to scramble for good yardage should the opportunity present itself. Mobility is an attribute NU quarterbacks haven’t had for a few years, and Ganz’s ability to scramble or possibly keep the ball on running plays will force defenses to be less aggressive. The Big 12 is absolutely stacked with quality signal callers, so don’t look for Ganz on any pre-season all conference lists. However, given his effectiveness during last season’s impromptu debut, the QB spot – the most important position on the field – should be in good hands.
One of the more intriguing depth chart battles going into Fall Camp, was the scrum for the number two QB job. Redshirt freshman Patrick Witt came out of the spring with a slight lead over sophomore Zac Lee. Both Witt and Lee are talented options, with Lee having the stronger arm and better quickness, and Witt having better command of the offense. While these are good options to have, neither Witt nor Lee has played a snap of Division I football yet. Long-time Husker Beau Davis brings a good attitude and will provide another level of depth on the depth chart.
Reason for optimism: Even the most optimistic Husker fans had to be surprised by Ganz’s ability to move the ball last season after he replaced Sam Keller. What can he do for an encore with a more effective running attack and defense that (hopefully) provides much better field position?
Reason for concern: Again, Witt and Lee are talented, but haven’t played in a real D-1 game yet. Getting them some snaps during the first three non-conference games will be key to their development and having them ready should…gulp…Ganz get injured.
New blood: Kody Spano enrolled early and joined the team for spring ball. Spano comes off an impressive high school career and is an accurate passer, but is green. He’ll most likely redshirt.
What to expect in ’08: Don’t underestimate the importance of agility at the QB spot. Ganz has already mentioned that the coaching staff has added some new plays to take advantage of his ability to run the ball. If he can stay healthy and develop a rapport with some new receivers, the offense has the potential to be better than last year’s squad.
Position Overview: The return of starting QB Joe Ganz makes this position a strength for the 2008 version of the Big Red. After waiting patiently on the sidelines for more than three and a half years, Ganz got his shot late in the season and opened some eyes throughout the conference by throwing for more than 1,400 and 16 touchdowns in only three starts. While it’s also true that Ganz threw seven interceptions in those games, those picks seemed to be caused by Ganz trying to force throws to try to keep up with the piles of points being put up by opposing offenses. A more balanced offense with a stronger running attack will put less pressure on Ganz to do it all himself.
More important than the numbers, Ganz displayed strong command of the huddle and the feet to scramble for good yardage should the opportunity present itself. Mobility is an attribute NU quarterbacks haven’t had for a few years, and Ganz’s ability to scramble or possibly keep the ball on running plays will force defenses to be less aggressive. The Big 12 is absolutely stacked with quality signal callers, so don’t look for Ganz on any pre-season all conference lists. However, given his effectiveness during last season’s impromptu debut, the QB spot – the most important position on the field – should be in good hands.
One of the more intriguing depth chart battles going into Fall Camp, was the scrum for the number two QB job. Redshirt freshman Patrick Witt came out of the spring with a slight lead over sophomore Zac Lee. Both Witt and Lee are talented options, with Lee having the stronger arm and better quickness, and Witt having better command of the offense. While these are good options to have, neither Witt nor Lee has played a snap of Division I football yet. Long-time Husker Beau Davis brings a good attitude and will provide another level of depth on the depth chart.
Reason for optimism: Even the most optimistic Husker fans had to be surprised by Ganz’s ability to move the ball last season after he replaced Sam Keller. What can he do for an encore with a more effective running attack and defense that (hopefully) provides much better field position?
Reason for concern: Again, Witt and Lee are talented, but haven’t played in a real D-1 game yet. Getting them some snaps during the first three non-conference games will be key to their development and having them ready should…gulp…Ganz get injured.
New blood: Kody Spano enrolled early and joined the team for spring ball. Spano comes off an impressive high school career and is an accurate passer, but is green. He’ll most likely redshirt.
What to expect in ’08: Don’t underestimate the importance of agility at the QB spot. Ganz has already mentioned that the coaching staff has added some new plays to take advantage of his ability to run the ball. If he can stay healthy and develop a rapport with some new receivers, the offense has the potential to be better than last year’s squad.
Monday, July 28, 2008
2008 Position Breakdown: Running Backs
2008 Position Breakdown: Running Backs
Position Overview: More than any other position on the 2008 Husker squad, the running back spot is stacked with quality and quantity. Start with senior Marlon Lucky, the Big 12’s leading returning rusher. With Lucky, we all know what to expect. He’s an excellent pass catcher out of the backfield, and is very good, if not spectacular, in nearly every other aspect of the running game. Lucky’s experience and versatility will be extremely valuable for the Big Red as they work to reestablish the power running game and give the young receivers time to develop.
Sophomores Roy Helu and Quentin Castille will provide ample depth behind Lucky. Helu turned plenty of heads during spring practice and made news by earning “co-first team” status with Lucky on the team’s pre-fall depth chart. Helu is a potent mix of toughness and quickness and clearly has the trust of the coaching staff. Like Helu, the sky is the limit for Castille. He brings 4.5 speed and 240 pounds of muscle to the table. Ask safety Rickey Thenarse how it feels to knock shoulder pads with Castille.
I may be a homer, but it doesn’t seem like a stretch to say all three of these backs could be playing in the NFL some day.
Providing further depth and an added dose of speed will be redshirt freshman Marcus Mendoza. Essentially an unknown quantity (last seen he fumbled a few punts and caught a swing pass for a touchdown in the spring game), Mendoza could be used as an occasional change-up speed back when the situation dictates.
Speculation is that Husker fullbacks may actually carry the ball again in 2008, after serving almost exclusively as blockers under the Callahan regime. Steady senior Thomas Lawson will likely begin as the starter, while Justin Makovica (it’s good to have a Makovicka in the backfield again) will man the second team.
Reason for optimism: There are plenty of reasons. Lucky is pre-season All Big 12, Helu has the coaches raving and Castille could potentially be better than either of them. Add in that the backs behind Lucky are all sophs or younger, and this position should be good for a while.
Reason for concern: For all his talent, Castille needs to hang on to the football. If the team is to pull off some upsets this year, the Huskers will need to be able to count on the sophomore from Texas in goal line situations.
New blood: Freshmen Collins Okafor from Omaha and Lester Ward out of Brenham, Texas will join the fray in the fall. Both seem to be good candidates to redshirt in 2008.
What to expect in ’08: New running backs coach Tim Beck brings not only excellent recruiting connections, he also helped develop some strong running attacks while at Kansas. In the last few seasons, Beck helped turn KU’s Jon Cornish and Brandon McAnderson into 1,000-yard backs. His presence, along with pre-season vows from Offensive Coordinator Shawn Watson and O-line Coach Barney Cotton to reemphasize a smash mouth running attack, should result in big yardage out of the running back spot.
Position Overview: More than any other position on the 2008 Husker squad, the running back spot is stacked with quality and quantity. Start with senior Marlon Lucky, the Big 12’s leading returning rusher. With Lucky, we all know what to expect. He’s an excellent pass catcher out of the backfield, and is very good, if not spectacular, in nearly every other aspect of the running game. Lucky’s experience and versatility will be extremely valuable for the Big Red as they work to reestablish the power running game and give the young receivers time to develop.
Sophomores Roy Helu and Quentin Castille will provide ample depth behind Lucky. Helu turned plenty of heads during spring practice and made news by earning “co-first team” status with Lucky on the team’s pre-fall depth chart. Helu is a potent mix of toughness and quickness and clearly has the trust of the coaching staff. Like Helu, the sky is the limit for Castille. He brings 4.5 speed and 240 pounds of muscle to the table. Ask safety Rickey Thenarse how it feels to knock shoulder pads with Castille.
I may be a homer, but it doesn’t seem like a stretch to say all three of these backs could be playing in the NFL some day.
Providing further depth and an added dose of speed will be redshirt freshman Marcus Mendoza. Essentially an unknown quantity (last seen he fumbled a few punts and caught a swing pass for a touchdown in the spring game), Mendoza could be used as an occasional change-up speed back when the situation dictates.
Speculation is that Husker fullbacks may actually carry the ball again in 2008, after serving almost exclusively as blockers under the Callahan regime. Steady senior Thomas Lawson will likely begin as the starter, while Justin Makovica (it’s good to have a Makovicka in the backfield again) will man the second team.
Reason for optimism: There are plenty of reasons. Lucky is pre-season All Big 12, Helu has the coaches raving and Castille could potentially be better than either of them. Add in that the backs behind Lucky are all sophs or younger, and this position should be good for a while.
Reason for concern: For all his talent, Castille needs to hang on to the football. If the team is to pull off some upsets this year, the Huskers will need to be able to count on the sophomore from Texas in goal line situations.
New blood: Freshmen Collins Okafor from Omaha and Lester Ward out of Brenham, Texas will join the fray in the fall. Both seem to be good candidates to redshirt in 2008.
What to expect in ’08: New running backs coach Tim Beck brings not only excellent recruiting connections, he also helped develop some strong running attacks while at Kansas. In the last few seasons, Beck helped turn KU’s Jon Cornish and Brandon McAnderson into 1,000-yard backs. His presence, along with pre-season vows from Offensive Coordinator Shawn Watson and O-line Coach Barney Cotton to reemphasize a smash mouth running attack, should result in big yardage out of the running back spot.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
2008 Position Breakdown: Kickers & Punters
Hey there Husker fans. We're just over a week away from the start of Fall Camp, and although there are absolutely no signs of autumn here in Arizona, in my heart and my mind it's time for football. In the remaining days before the fall practices get rolling, I figured I'd break down the 2008 Cornhuskers one position at a time.
Since this is the first of the series, it seemed only fitting that we "kick things off" with the kickers and punters.
Kickers and Punters
Position Overview: The Huskers' kicking game appears in good hands, err...feet with the top two place kickers Alex Henery and Adi Kunalic (both sophomores) senior punter Dan Titchener all returning. In 2007, Henery didn't miss a kick, splitting the uprights on all 45 extra point attempts and going 8 for 8 on field goal attempts. With his accuracy, Henery will most likely remain the go-to guy on field goals from 45 yards and in, while Kunalic's big leg will handle the longer attempts. While Kunalic is certainly capable of handling the full-time kicking duties, make no mistake he was brought in to put kickoffs in or near the end zone. In 66 attempts last year, Kunalic held opposing teams to a touchback 28 times -- roughly 42 percent of the time. Though it wasn't reflected in last year's defensive stats, forcing an opposing team to start at or inside their own 20 yard line is a considerable competitive advantage for a defense.
One could make an argument that Titchener was the defensive MVP for last year's Husker team. Though the 2007 D was rarely able to keep opposing offenses off the scoreboard, it clearly wasn't Titchener's fault. This will be Titchener's third year as the starting punter and in that time he's only had one kick blocked while showing a proficiency for killing kicks deep in opposing territory. Last year, he averaged just over 41 yards per punt. In the unlikely event of an injury, Henery, a former high school soccer star, would likely step in as Titchener's understudy.
Reason for optimism: All three main guys return along with long snapper T.J. O'Leary and holder Jake Wesch.
Reason for concern: For all their efficiency last season, the place kickers were never put in a win-or-lose pressure kick situation. Will they step up when/if a clutch boot is needed?
New blood: No real newbies here, although we will see some new faces returning punts and kicks. Youngsters like Prince Amukamara, Marcus Mendoza and Niles Paul will fight it out to see who nabs the return jobs in the fall.
What to expect in '08: For whatever reason, Bill Callahan wasn't a big fan of kicking field goals. Granted, every coach would rather put up six points instead of three. Still, Callahan was abnormally averse to sending the kicking unit out in typical field goal situations (that's why Henery only went 8 for 8). While it would be against Bo Pelini's aggressive nature to be conservative with the kicking game, I would guess the Huskers will utilize the kicking crew more often in 2008.
Since this is the first of the series, it seemed only fitting that we "kick things off" with the kickers and punters.
Kickers and Punters
Position Overview: The Huskers' kicking game appears in good hands, err...feet with the top two place kickers Alex Henery and Adi Kunalic (both sophomores) senior punter Dan Titchener all returning. In 2007, Henery didn't miss a kick, splitting the uprights on all 45 extra point attempts and going 8 for 8 on field goal attempts. With his accuracy, Henery will most likely remain the go-to guy on field goals from 45 yards and in, while Kunalic's big leg will handle the longer attempts. While Kunalic is certainly capable of handling the full-time kicking duties, make no mistake he was brought in to put kickoffs in or near the end zone. In 66 attempts last year, Kunalic held opposing teams to a touchback 28 times -- roughly 42 percent of the time. Though it wasn't reflected in last year's defensive stats, forcing an opposing team to start at or inside their own 20 yard line is a considerable competitive advantage for a defense.
One could make an argument that Titchener was the defensive MVP for last year's Husker team. Though the 2007 D was rarely able to keep opposing offenses off the scoreboard, it clearly wasn't Titchener's fault. This will be Titchener's third year as the starting punter and in that time he's only had one kick blocked while showing a proficiency for killing kicks deep in opposing territory. Last year, he averaged just over 41 yards per punt. In the unlikely event of an injury, Henery, a former high school soccer star, would likely step in as Titchener's understudy.
Reason for optimism: All three main guys return along with long snapper T.J. O'Leary and holder Jake Wesch.
Reason for concern: For all their efficiency last season, the place kickers were never put in a win-or-lose pressure kick situation. Will they step up when/if a clutch boot is needed?
New blood: No real newbies here, although we will see some new faces returning punts and kicks. Youngsters like Prince Amukamara, Marcus Mendoza and Niles Paul will fight it out to see who nabs the return jobs in the fall.
What to expect in '08: For whatever reason, Bill Callahan wasn't a big fan of kicking field goals. Granted, every coach would rather put up six points instead of three. Still, Callahan was abnormally averse to sending the kicking unit out in typical field goal situations (that's why Henery only went 8 for 8). While it would be against Bo Pelini's aggressive nature to be conservative with the kicking game, I would guess the Huskers will utilize the kicking crew more often in 2008.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
A Good Read
I just got done reading a very good book about college football. It is called "Rammer Jammer Yellow Hammer," and while it has nothing to do with the Nebraska Cornhuskers, it is a funny and insightful look at what it means to be a fan from the perspective of a journalist who also happens to be a huge supporter of the Alabama Crimson Tide.
The author, Warren St. John, purchases an RV and imbeds himself in the Alabama RV tailgating culture. Along the way he encounters plenty of characters, crackpots and crazies. I read quite a few sports books, and highly recommend this one.
Got any good suggestions for books on college football? Let me hear 'em.
The author, Warren St. John, purchases an RV and imbeds himself in the Alabama RV tailgating culture. Along the way he encounters plenty of characters, crackpots and crazies. I read quite a few sports books, and highly recommend this one.
Got any good suggestions for books on college football? Let me hear 'em.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Big 12 North Predictions
While Oklahoma reigned supreme in the Big 12 last season, the Northern division closed the gap significantly. Missouri and Kansas put together amazing seasons and Colorado showed signs of life. The North should be strong again in 2008 with pretty much every team in the division likely to improve. Here are my predictions on how the North will shake out this year.
1. Missouri
Overall record: 11-1, Conference record: 7-1
Aug. 30 Illinois (in St. Louis) -- WIN
Sept. 6 S.E. Missouri St. -- WIN
Sept. 13 Nevada -- WIN
Sept. 20 Buffalo -- WIN
Oct. 4 @ Nebraska -- WIN
Oct. 11 Oklahoma St. -- WIN
Oct. 18 @ Texas -- WIN
Oct. 25 Colorado -- WIN
Nov. 1 @ Baylor -- WIN
Nov. 8 Kansas St. -- WIN
Nov. 15 @ Iowa St. -- WIN
Nov. 29 Kansas -- LOSS
Overview: Too much Chase Daniel, too much Jeremy Maclin, too much William Moore equals too much talent for Coach Gary Pinkel to mess up. Replacing RB Tony Temple and TE Martin Rucker will prove to be minor issues. This is a stacked, senior laden team that returns nearly all the other key components from last year's Big 12 North champs. The Tigers will head to Kansas City in December for a rematch against OU for the Big 12 title.
2. Nebraska
Overall record: 9-3, Conference record: 5-3
Aug. 30 Western Michigan -- WIN
Sept. 6 San Jose St. -- WIN
Sept. 13 New Mexico St. -- WIN
Sept. 27 Virginia Tech -- WIN
Oct. 4 Missouri -- LOSS
Oct. 11 @ Texas Tech -- LOSS
Oct. 18 @ Iowa St. -- WIN
Oct. 25 Baylor -- WIN
Nov. 1 @ Oklahoma -- LOSS
Nov. 8 Kansas -- WIN
Nov. 15 @ Kansas St. -- WIN
Nov. 28 Colorado -- WIN
Overview: It's a new era that celebrates the old traditions in Lincoln. The Husker offense should be potent behind Joe Ganz, a solid O-line and a talented stable of running backs. The key a 2008 resurgence will be the play of the Pelini-led Blackshirts. An improvement to mere competence on D should be worth a few wins and a second place finish in the North.
3. Kansas
Overall record: 7-5, Conference record: 4-4
Aug. 30 Florida International -- WIN
Sept. 6 Louisiana Tech -- WIN
Sept. 12 @ South Florida -- LOSS
Sept. 20 Sam Houston St. -- WIN
Oct. 4 @ Iowa St. -- WIN
Oct. 11 Colorado -- LOSS
Oct. 18 @ Oklahoma -- LOSS
Oct. 25 Texas Tech -- WIN
Nov. 1 Kansas St. -- WIN
Nov. 8 @Nebraska -- LOSS
Nov. 15 Texas -- LOSS
Nov. 29 @ Missouri -- WIN
Overview: Kansas' talent and ability won't drop off, but a much harder schedule (adding South Florida to the non-conference and Texas Tech, Oklahoma and Texas to the conference slate) will result in a disappointing third place finish for the Jayhawks. The productivity of JUCO RB recruit Jocques Crawford will be key for the fighting Manginos.
4. Kansas St.
Overall record: 6-6, Conference record: 3-5
Aug. 30 North Texas -- WIN
Sept. 6 Montana St. -- WIN
Sept. 17 @ Louisville -- LOSS
Sept. 27 Louisiana-Lafayette -- WIN
Oct. 4 Texas Tech -- LOSS
Oct. 11 @ Texas A&M -- WIN
Oct. 18 @ Colorado -- WIN
Oct. 25 Oklahoma -- LOSS
Nov. 1 @ Kansas -- LOSS
Nov. 8 @ Missouri -- LOSS
Nov. 15 Nebraska -- LOSS
Nov. 22 Iowa St. -- WIN
Overview: K-State Coach Ron Prince took a big gamble when he brought in 19 junior college recruits in 2008. The Wildcats are obviously looking for a quick fix, which I think will result in an inconsistent squad. A minor bowl at the end of the season should be enough for Prince to keep his job for one more year.
5. Colorado
Overall record: 5-7, Conference record: 3-5
Aug. 31 @ Colorado St. -- WIN
Sept. 6 Eastern Washington -- WIN
Sept. 13 West Virginia -- LOSS
Sept. 27 @ Florida St. -- LOSS
Oct. 4 Texas -- LOSS
Oct. 11 @ Kansas -- WIN
Oct. 18 Kansas St. -- LOSS
Oct. 25 @ Missouri -- LOSS
Nov. 1 @ Texas A&M -- WIN
Nov. 8 Iowa St. -- LOSS
Nov. 15 Oklahoma St. -- WIN
Nov. 25 @ Nebraska -- LOSS
Overview: I'm not buying the hype over Colorado. While this will be a more talented team than has been seen in Boulder the last few years, a typically tough schedule combined with serious holes at offensive line, wide receiver and in the secondary will keep the Buffs home for the holidays. Look for a sophomore slump from QB Cody Hawkins.
6. Iowa St.
Overall record: 4-8, Conference record: 2-6
Aug. 28 South Dakota St. -- WIN
Sept. 6 Kent St. -- WIN
Sept. 13 @ Iowa -- LOSS
Sept. 20 @ UNLV -- LOSS
Oct. 4 Kansas -- LOSS
Oct. 11 @ Baylor -- LOSS
Oct. 18 Nebraska -- LOSS
Oct. 25 Texas A&M -- WIN
Nov. 1 @ Oklahoma St. -- LOSS
Nov. 8 @ Colorado -- WIN
Nov. 15 Missouri -- LOSS
Nov. 22 @ Kansas St. -- LOSS
Overview: Gene Chizik's Cyclones will play with more fire and passion, but less overall talent in 2008. Chizik is a good coach, but Ames is a tough place to win. A lack of playmakers and uncertainty at QB, WR and linebacker will ultimately doom ISU's 2008 campaign.
1. Missouri
Overall record: 11-1, Conference record: 7-1
Aug. 30 Illinois (in St. Louis) -- WIN
Sept. 6 S.E. Missouri St. -- WIN
Sept. 13 Nevada -- WIN
Sept. 20 Buffalo -- WIN
Oct. 4 @ Nebraska -- WIN
Oct. 11 Oklahoma St. -- WIN
Oct. 18 @ Texas -- WIN
Oct. 25 Colorado -- WIN
Nov. 1 @ Baylor -- WIN
Nov. 8 Kansas St. -- WIN
Nov. 15 @ Iowa St. -- WIN
Nov. 29 Kansas -- LOSS
Overview: Too much Chase Daniel, too much Jeremy Maclin, too much William Moore equals too much talent for Coach Gary Pinkel to mess up. Replacing RB Tony Temple and TE Martin Rucker will prove to be minor issues. This is a stacked, senior laden team that returns nearly all the other key components from last year's Big 12 North champs. The Tigers will head to Kansas City in December for a rematch against OU for the Big 12 title.
2. Nebraska
Overall record: 9-3, Conference record: 5-3
Aug. 30 Western Michigan -- WIN
Sept. 6 San Jose St. -- WIN
Sept. 13 New Mexico St. -- WIN
Sept. 27 Virginia Tech -- WIN
Oct. 4 Missouri -- LOSS
Oct. 11 @ Texas Tech -- LOSS
Oct. 18 @ Iowa St. -- WIN
Oct. 25 Baylor -- WIN
Nov. 1 @ Oklahoma -- LOSS
Nov. 8 Kansas -- WIN
Nov. 15 @ Kansas St. -- WIN
Nov. 28 Colorado -- WIN
Overview: It's a new era that celebrates the old traditions in Lincoln. The Husker offense should be potent behind Joe Ganz, a solid O-line and a talented stable of running backs. The key a 2008 resurgence will be the play of the Pelini-led Blackshirts. An improvement to mere competence on D should be worth a few wins and a second place finish in the North.
3. Kansas
Overall record: 7-5, Conference record: 4-4
Aug. 30 Florida International -- WIN
Sept. 6 Louisiana Tech -- WIN
Sept. 12 @ South Florida -- LOSS
Sept. 20 Sam Houston St. -- WIN
Oct. 4 @ Iowa St. -- WIN
Oct. 11 Colorado -- LOSS
Oct. 18 @ Oklahoma -- LOSS
Oct. 25 Texas Tech -- WIN
Nov. 1 Kansas St. -- WIN
Nov. 8 @Nebraska -- LOSS
Nov. 15 Texas -- LOSS
Nov. 29 @ Missouri -- WIN
Overview: Kansas' talent and ability won't drop off, but a much harder schedule (adding South Florida to the non-conference and Texas Tech, Oklahoma and Texas to the conference slate) will result in a disappointing third place finish for the Jayhawks. The productivity of JUCO RB recruit Jocques Crawford will be key for the fighting Manginos.
4. Kansas St.
Overall record: 6-6, Conference record: 3-5
Aug. 30 North Texas -- WIN
Sept. 6 Montana St. -- WIN
Sept. 17 @ Louisville -- LOSS
Sept. 27 Louisiana-Lafayette -- WIN
Oct. 4 Texas Tech -- LOSS
Oct. 11 @ Texas A&M -- WIN
Oct. 18 @ Colorado -- WIN
Oct. 25 Oklahoma -- LOSS
Nov. 1 @ Kansas -- LOSS
Nov. 8 @ Missouri -- LOSS
Nov. 15 Nebraska -- LOSS
Nov. 22 Iowa St. -- WIN
Overview: K-State Coach Ron Prince took a big gamble when he brought in 19 junior college recruits in 2008. The Wildcats are obviously looking for a quick fix, which I think will result in an inconsistent squad. A minor bowl at the end of the season should be enough for Prince to keep his job for one more year.
5. Colorado
Overall record: 5-7, Conference record: 3-5
Aug. 31 @ Colorado St. -- WIN
Sept. 6 Eastern Washington -- WIN
Sept. 13 West Virginia -- LOSS
Sept. 27 @ Florida St. -- LOSS
Oct. 4 Texas -- LOSS
Oct. 11 @ Kansas -- WIN
Oct. 18 Kansas St. -- LOSS
Oct. 25 @ Missouri -- LOSS
Nov. 1 @ Texas A&M -- WIN
Nov. 8 Iowa St. -- LOSS
Nov. 15 Oklahoma St. -- WIN
Nov. 25 @ Nebraska -- LOSS
Overview: I'm not buying the hype over Colorado. While this will be a more talented team than has been seen in Boulder the last few years, a typically tough schedule combined with serious holes at offensive line, wide receiver and in the secondary will keep the Buffs home for the holidays. Look for a sophomore slump from QB Cody Hawkins.
6. Iowa St.
Overall record: 4-8, Conference record: 2-6
Aug. 28 South Dakota St. -- WIN
Sept. 6 Kent St. -- WIN
Sept. 13 @ Iowa -- LOSS
Sept. 20 @ UNLV -- LOSS
Oct. 4 Kansas -- LOSS
Oct. 11 @ Baylor -- LOSS
Oct. 18 Nebraska -- LOSS
Oct. 25 Texas A&M -- WIN
Nov. 1 @ Oklahoma St. -- LOSS
Nov. 8 @ Colorado -- WIN
Nov. 15 Missouri -- LOSS
Nov. 22 @ Kansas St. -- LOSS
Overview: Gene Chizik's Cyclones will play with more fire and passion, but less overall talent in 2008. Chizik is a good coach, but Ames is a tough place to win. A lack of playmakers and uncertainty at QB, WR and linebacker will ultimately doom ISU's 2008 campaign.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Big 12 South Predictions
Monday kicks off Big 12 Media Days, and, while I won't be attending the festivities, that doesn't mean I can't chime in with a few opinions. I'll start with a schedule breakdown of how I see things shaking out in the Big 12 South.
1. Oklahoma
Overall record: 11-1, Conference record: 7-1
Aug. 30 Chattanooga -- WIN
Sept. 6 Cincinnati -- WIN
Sept. 13 @ Washington -- WIN
Sept. 27 TCU -- WIN
Oct. 4 @ Baylor -- WIN
Oct. 11 Texas (in Dallas) -- LOSS
Oct. 18 Kansas -- WIN
Oct. 25 @ Kansas St. -- WIN
Nov. 1 Nebraska -- WIN
Nov. 8 @ Texas A&M -- WIN
Nov. 23 Texas Tech -- WIN
Nov. 29 @ Oklahoma St. -- WIN
Overview: OU returns the 2007 national leader in passing efficiency, Sam Bradford, a huge offensive line and stud running back DeMarco Murray. The defensive back seven will drop off slightly, but the D-line will be solid behind highly touted DTs Gerald McCoy and Demarcus Granger, as well as Auston English who led the Big 12 in sacks last year. A tough loss to rival Texas will be the only blemish on the OU regular season and Bob Stoops will win yet another Big 12 South crown.
2. Texas
Overall record: 9-3, Conference record: 6-2
Aug. 30 Florida Atlantic -- WIN
Sept. 6 @UTEP -- WIN
Sept. 13 Arkansas -- LOSS
Sept. 20 Rice -- WIN
Oct. 4 @ Colorado -- LOSS
Oct. 11 Oklahoma (in Dallas) -- WIN
Oct. 18 Missouri -- LOSS
Oct. 25 Oklahoma St. -- WIN
Nov. 1 @Texas Tech -- WIN
Nov. 8 Baylor -- WIN
Nov. 15 @ Kansas -- WIN
Nov. 27 Texas A&M -- WIN
Overview: Though this Longhorn team certainly has some holes -- most notably at running back and in the secondary -- Texas still has the talent to compete for the South title. Look for QB Colt McCoy to have a much more efficient junior year, and for his back-up, John Chiles to play some snaps and add a running threat from behind center. The defense may struggle a little early, before finding its way toward the end of the regular season.
3. Texas Tech
Overall record: 8-4, Conference record 4-4
Aug. 30 Eastern Washington -- WIN
Sept. 6 @ Nevada -- WIN
Sept. 13 Southern Methodist -- WIN
Sept. 20 Massachussetts -- WIN
Oct. 4 @ Kansas St. -- WIN
Oct. 11 Nebraska -- WIN
Oct. 18 @ Texas A&M -- WIN
Oct. 25 @ Kansas -- LOSS
Nov. 1 Texas -- LOSS
Nov. 8 Oklahoma St. -- LOSS
Nov. 22 Oklahoma -- LOSS
Nov. 29 Baylor -- WIN
Overview: Mike Leach's offense will put up big wins and bigger numbers against a cupcake non-conference schedule. They'll ride that momentum to a 7-0 start that will vault them into the nation's top ten, before suffering four consecutive losses. QB Graham Harrell will pass for huge yardage, taking advantage of the best corps of receivers in the Big 12. Bonus prediction: This will be Mike Leach's final year in Lubbock as he will be poached by the Arizona Wildcats for the 2008 season after the Wildcats fire head coach Mike Stoops.
4. Oklahoma St.
Overall record: 6-6, Conference record: 3-5
Aug. 30 @Washington St. -- WIN
Sept. 6 Houston -- LOSS
Sept. 13 Missouri St. -- WIN
Sept. 27 Troy -- WIN
Oct. 4 Texas A&M -- LOSS
Oct. 11 @ Missouri -- LOSS
Oct. 18 Baylor -- WIN
Oct. 25 @ Texas -- LOSS
Nov. 1 Iowa State -- WIN
Nov. 8 @ Texas Tech -- WIN
Nov. 15 @ Colorado -- LOSS
Nov. 29 Oklahoma -- LOSS
Overview: Oklahoma State will be an enigma, winning a game they probably shouldn't win at Texas Tech and losing a game at home against Texas A&M they shouldn't lose. Mike Gundy's squad will score plenty of points behind the arm and feet of signal caller Zac Robinson and breakout star WR Dez Bryant. However, the defense will be an ongoing concern and will break some hearts in Stillwater this year.
5. Texas A&M
Overall record 4-8, Conference record 2-6
Aug. 30 Arkansas St. -- WIN
Sept. 6 @ New Mexico -- LOSS
Sept. 20 Miami, FL -- LOSS
Sept. 27 Army -- WIN
Oct. 4 @ Oklahoma St. -- WIN
Oct. 11 Kansas State -- LOSS
Oct. 18 Texas Tech -- LOSS
Oct. 25 @ Iowa St. -- LOSS
Nov. 1 Colorado -- LOSS
Nov. 8 Oklahoma -- LOSS
Nov. 15 @ Baylor -- WIN
Nov. 27 @ Texas -- LOSS
Overview: Remember the Huskers' painful first year under Bill Callahan? We'll all see striking similarities to the Aggies' first campaign under new coach Mike Sherman. Aggie QB Stephen McGee is simply not well suited to Sherman's pro-style attack, and there isn't enough talent on defense to hold off opposing offenses while A&M's offense figures things out. This will be an ugly transition year.
6. Baylor
Overall record: 3-9, Conference record: 1-7
Aug. 30 Wake Forest -- WIN
Sept. 6 Northwestern St. -- WIN
Sept. 13 Washington St. -- LOSS
Sept. 19 @ Connecticut -- LOSS
Oct. 4 Oklahoma -- LOSS
Oct. 11 Iowa State -- WIN
Oct. 18 @ Oklahoma St. -- LOSS
Oct. 25 @ Nebraska -- LOSS
Nov. 1 Missouri -- LOSS
Nov. 8 @ Texas -- LOSS
Nov. 15 Texas A&M -- LOSS
Nov. 29 @ Texas Tech -- LOSS
Overview: The first season under new head coach Art Briles will initially spur all sorts of optimism in Waco, as the Bears upset ACC power Wake Forest in their opener. Unfortunately, it's all classic Baylor from there on out. Briles is a brilliant coach and a great hire (in a few years, Texas A&M will be kicking themselves for hiring Sherman when Briles was available), but there simply isn't enough talent or depth for the Bears to finish anywhere but in the Big 12 South basement.
Coming Soon...the Big 12 North preview.
1. Oklahoma
Overall record: 11-1, Conference record: 7-1
Aug. 30 Chattanooga -- WIN
Sept. 6 Cincinnati -- WIN
Sept. 13 @ Washington -- WIN
Sept. 27 TCU -- WIN
Oct. 4 @ Baylor -- WIN
Oct. 11 Texas (in Dallas) -- LOSS
Oct. 18 Kansas -- WIN
Oct. 25 @ Kansas St. -- WIN
Nov. 1 Nebraska -- WIN
Nov. 8 @ Texas A&M -- WIN
Nov. 23 Texas Tech -- WIN
Nov. 29 @ Oklahoma St. -- WIN
Overview: OU returns the 2007 national leader in passing efficiency, Sam Bradford, a huge offensive line and stud running back DeMarco Murray. The defensive back seven will drop off slightly, but the D-line will be solid behind highly touted DTs Gerald McCoy and Demarcus Granger, as well as Auston English who led the Big 12 in sacks last year. A tough loss to rival Texas will be the only blemish on the OU regular season and Bob Stoops will win yet another Big 12 South crown.
2. Texas
Overall record: 9-3, Conference record: 6-2
Aug. 30 Florida Atlantic -- WIN
Sept. 6 @UTEP -- WIN
Sept. 13 Arkansas -- LOSS
Sept. 20 Rice -- WIN
Oct. 4 @ Colorado -- LOSS
Oct. 11 Oklahoma (in Dallas) -- WIN
Oct. 18 Missouri -- LOSS
Oct. 25 Oklahoma St. -- WIN
Nov. 1 @Texas Tech -- WIN
Nov. 8 Baylor -- WIN
Nov. 15 @ Kansas -- WIN
Nov. 27 Texas A&M -- WIN
Overview: Though this Longhorn team certainly has some holes -- most notably at running back and in the secondary -- Texas still has the talent to compete for the South title. Look for QB Colt McCoy to have a much more efficient junior year, and for his back-up, John Chiles to play some snaps and add a running threat from behind center. The defense may struggle a little early, before finding its way toward the end of the regular season.
3. Texas Tech
Overall record: 8-4, Conference record 4-4
Aug. 30 Eastern Washington -- WIN
Sept. 6 @ Nevada -- WIN
Sept. 13 Southern Methodist -- WIN
Sept. 20 Massachussetts -- WIN
Oct. 4 @ Kansas St. -- WIN
Oct. 11 Nebraska -- WIN
Oct. 18 @ Texas A&M -- WIN
Oct. 25 @ Kansas -- LOSS
Nov. 1 Texas -- LOSS
Nov. 8 Oklahoma St. -- LOSS
Nov. 22 Oklahoma -- LOSS
Nov. 29 Baylor -- WIN
Overview: Mike Leach's offense will put up big wins and bigger numbers against a cupcake non-conference schedule. They'll ride that momentum to a 7-0 start that will vault them into the nation's top ten, before suffering four consecutive losses. QB Graham Harrell will pass for huge yardage, taking advantage of the best corps of receivers in the Big 12. Bonus prediction: This will be Mike Leach's final year in Lubbock as he will be poached by the Arizona Wildcats for the 2008 season after the Wildcats fire head coach Mike Stoops.
4. Oklahoma St.
Overall record: 6-6, Conference record: 3-5
Aug. 30 @Washington St. -- WIN
Sept. 6 Houston -- LOSS
Sept. 13 Missouri St. -- WIN
Sept. 27 Troy -- WIN
Oct. 4 Texas A&M -- LOSS
Oct. 11 @ Missouri -- LOSS
Oct. 18 Baylor -- WIN
Oct. 25 @ Texas -- LOSS
Nov. 1 Iowa State -- WIN
Nov. 8 @ Texas Tech -- WIN
Nov. 15 @ Colorado -- LOSS
Nov. 29 Oklahoma -- LOSS
Overview: Oklahoma State will be an enigma, winning a game they probably shouldn't win at Texas Tech and losing a game at home against Texas A&M they shouldn't lose. Mike Gundy's squad will score plenty of points behind the arm and feet of signal caller Zac Robinson and breakout star WR Dez Bryant. However, the defense will be an ongoing concern and will break some hearts in Stillwater this year.
5. Texas A&M
Overall record 4-8, Conference record 2-6
Aug. 30 Arkansas St. -- WIN
Sept. 6 @ New Mexico -- LOSS
Sept. 20 Miami, FL -- LOSS
Sept. 27 Army -- WIN
Oct. 4 @ Oklahoma St. -- WIN
Oct. 11 Kansas State -- LOSS
Oct. 18 Texas Tech -- LOSS
Oct. 25 @ Iowa St. -- LOSS
Nov. 1 Colorado -- LOSS
Nov. 8 Oklahoma -- LOSS
Nov. 15 @ Baylor -- WIN
Nov. 27 @ Texas -- LOSS
Overview: Remember the Huskers' painful first year under Bill Callahan? We'll all see striking similarities to the Aggies' first campaign under new coach Mike Sherman. Aggie QB Stephen McGee is simply not well suited to Sherman's pro-style attack, and there isn't enough talent on defense to hold off opposing offenses while A&M's offense figures things out. This will be an ugly transition year.
6. Baylor
Overall record: 3-9, Conference record: 1-7
Aug. 30 Wake Forest -- WIN
Sept. 6 Northwestern St. -- WIN
Sept. 13 Washington St. -- LOSS
Sept. 19 @ Connecticut -- LOSS
Oct. 4 Oklahoma -- LOSS
Oct. 11 Iowa State -- WIN
Oct. 18 @ Oklahoma St. -- LOSS
Oct. 25 @ Nebraska -- LOSS
Nov. 1 Missouri -- LOSS
Nov. 8 @ Texas -- LOSS
Nov. 15 Texas A&M -- LOSS
Nov. 29 @ Texas Tech -- LOSS
Overview: The first season under new head coach Art Briles will initially spur all sorts of optimism in Waco, as the Bears upset ACC power Wake Forest in their opener. Unfortunately, it's all classic Baylor from there on out. Briles is a brilliant coach and a great hire (in a few years, Texas A&M will be kicking themselves for hiring Sherman when Briles was available), but there simply isn't enough talent or depth for the Bears to finish anywhere but in the Big 12 South basement.
Coming Soon...the Big 12 North preview.
Saturday, July 19, 2008
I'm Back
Long time, no blog. Sorry about that. I've been on a family vacation from our home in Arizona back to the land of wine and Runzas -- Nebraska.
It was great being back. Took the family to the zoo, saw many relatives, but the most gratifying experience from a Husker perspective was getting a tour of Memorial Stadium and the new athletic facilities.
Though our tour guide was a fairly cranky volunteer who I had to correct a few times on matters of Husker history, there were some serious goosebumps walking through the tunnel to the field, jumping up to touch the lucky horseshoe and seeing the weight room. I can see why so many recruits gush about the facilities, it is hard to imagine anything much better.
It was also notable that, in the post-Pederson era, there were plenty of tributes to past Huskers. Not just the Wistroms, Fraziers and Roziers, but also the academic all-stars and standouts from other sports. Great tour and a great experience to share with my 8-year-old son.
Anyway, sorry for the long layoff. I'll make up for it this week.
It was great being back. Took the family to the zoo, saw many relatives, but the most gratifying experience from a Husker perspective was getting a tour of Memorial Stadium and the new athletic facilities.
Though our tour guide was a fairly cranky volunteer who I had to correct a few times on matters of Husker history, there were some serious goosebumps walking through the tunnel to the field, jumping up to touch the lucky horseshoe and seeing the weight room. I can see why so many recruits gush about the facilities, it is hard to imagine anything much better.
It was also notable that, in the post-Pederson era, there were plenty of tributes to past Huskers. Not just the Wistroms, Fraziers and Roziers, but also the academic all-stars and standouts from other sports. Great tour and a great experience to share with my 8-year-old son.
Anyway, sorry for the long layoff. I'll make up for it this week.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
To Juco or not to Juco
Kansas State Head Coach Ron Prince made recruiting news in 2008 by bringing a recruiting class featuring 19 junior college players. That's a lot of juco kids and represents a considerable risk for Prince, who, if things don't improve fairly soon in Manhattan, could be looking for another job in 2009.
As Nebraska fans we know all too well about the ups and downs of recruiting junior college players. During the Callahan era, recruiting juco players was a failry common practice, peaking in the 2005 recruiting class which featured a dozen junior college athletes. The generalization is that while junior college players typically only have two years of eligibility (there are exceptions) and at times come to a school with questionable academic backgrounds, they are also older and more prepared to contribute right away.
As with recruiting prep players, junior college kids can be hit and miss. Much of the success of former K-State Coach Bill Snyder was due to his effective use of juco athletes such as Michael Bishop. And, of course, our beloved Cornhuskers have hit junior college gold several times in the past with names such as I.M. Hipp, Mike Rozier and Terrell Farley. But 19 juco recruits? That's either a career saving or ending risk.
Will it pay off? Let's take a look at the junior college recruits from the Bill Callahan era to see what kind of success rate Ron Prince and the Wildcat faithful can expect:
Big Time Successes (3)-- These Huskers made a considerable contribution, playing at a all-conference level or higher.
As Nebraska fans we know all too well about the ups and downs of recruiting junior college players. During the Callahan era, recruiting juco players was a failry common practice, peaking in the 2005 recruiting class which featured a dozen junior college athletes. The generalization is that while junior college players typically only have two years of eligibility (there are exceptions) and at times come to a school with questionable academic backgrounds, they are also older and more prepared to contribute right away.
As with recruiting prep players, junior college kids can be hit and miss. Much of the success of former K-State Coach Bill Snyder was due to his effective use of juco athletes such as Michael Bishop. And, of course, our beloved Cornhuskers have hit junior college gold several times in the past with names such as I.M. Hipp, Mike Rozier and Terrell Farley. But 19 juco recruits? That's either a career saving or ending risk.
Will it pay off? Let's take a look at the junior college recruits from the Bill Callahan era to see what kind of success rate Ron Prince and the Wildcat faithful can expect:
Big Time Successes (3)-- These Huskers made a considerable contribution, playing at a all-conference level or higher.
- Zac Taylor, QB, 2005 recruiting class -- The most obvious juco success story. Zac was the Big 12 offensive player of the year his senior year.
- Maurice Purify, WR, 2006 class -- Though his stay wasn't without legal troubles, Mo was a real match up problem for opposing defenses.
- Carl Nicks, OT, 2006 class -- Offensive linemen seem to struggle most with the transition to I-A football. However Carl Nicks's considerable size and pass blocking skills lead to him being drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the 5th round.
Contributors (10) -- These are the juco recruits who started or played considerable snaps.
- Zack Bowman, CB, 2005 class -- Showed glimpses of awesome talent, but two knee injuries kept Bowman from making more of an impact.
- Barry Cryer, DT, 2005 class -- An effective starter during 2007 season.
- Ola Dagunduro, DT, 2005 class -- Started alongside Cryer on the best defense of the Callahan era.
- Frantz Hardy, WR, 2005 class -- Speedy receiver and sporadic game breaker with maddeningly poor hands.
- Steve Octavien, LB, 2005 class -- Physically talented linebacker who tempted us with flashes of brilliance, but left Lincoln with an underwhelming legacy.
- Bryan Wilson, CB, 2005 class -- Fairly effective dime package substitute and spot starter.
- Andre Jones, CB, 2006 class -- Kind of like Bowman, but without the legitimate injury excuse for disappointing play.
- Armando Murillo, CB, 2007 class -- Murillo was relatively effective on a 2007 defense that had no pass rush and put incredible pressure on the DBs.
- Larry Asante, S, 2007 class -- Like Murillo, hard to judge his performance on last year's underachieving D. Has the ability to move into the Big Time Successes category with two more successful years wearing red.
- Kevin Dixon, DT, 2007 class -- Made some small contributions to the 2007 D-line. Has a chance to help turn around the 2008 Blackshirts.
Minor or zero contributors (13) -- Players who contributed little to nothing to the team.
- Shukree Barfield, DT, 2007 class -- Like Kevin Dixon, but a little less so. Still has a year.
- Kenny Wilson, RB, 2006 class -- An impressive combination of power and speed, but was stuck behind younger backs, then suffered a badly broken leg.
- Cornealius Thomas, OT, 2004 class --Played in eight games on the O-Line before being injured during his senior year.
- Jordan Adams, QB/S, 2004 class -- Second best clip board holder behind Beau Davis.
- Marque McCray, WR, 2004 class -- Nada.
- Shamus McCoy, WR, 2004 class -- Less than nada.
- Dontrell Moore, LB, 2005 class -- Played sparingly for one season then left team before senior year.
- Brock Pasteur, OL, 2005 class -- Big doesn't always equal good.
- Jordan Picou, OL, 2005 class -- Again, juco OL success rate is generally not good.
- Tyrell Spain, WR/DB, 2005 class -- Missed his first year with eligibility issues, never contributed.
- Justin Tomerlin, DE, 2005 class -- Flamed out at both Florida State and Nebraska.
- Victory Haines, OC, 2006 class -- Played some snaps with little effectiveness.
- Brandon Johnson, DT, 2006 class -- "The Beast" had a better nickname than game.
Too early to tell (1)
- Zac Lee, QB, 2007 class -- After redshirting in 2007, will compete with Patrick Witt to be back up to Joe Ganz in 2008.
The totals come out to 13 contributors and big time contributors, 13 minor to zero contributors and one too early to tell. What does that tell us? Expect nine-and-a-half players from the K-State 2008 recruiting class to play a role for the Wildcats. Will that be good enough to save Prince's job? Maybe he should call Bill Callahan and see how it worked out for him.
Green is Red
Good news yesterday that Cody Green, QB from Dayton, Texas has given NU a verbal commitment to be part of the 2009 recruiting class. Green is easily the Huskers most high-profile recruit thus far, garnering 4 stars from Rivals, 5 stars from Scout and earning a place on the ESPN 150 list of top recruits.
Of course, any verbal commitment comes with a million caveats, which hopefully Cornhusker fans should know all too well by now. Still, watching Green's highlight films and reading the words from his coaches, it is easy to get excited. Now, in addition to playing his final season of high school football, Green's biggest job is to urge some of his fellow Texans to join him in wearing the scarlet and cream in 2009.
Of course, any verbal commitment comes with a million caveats, which hopefully Cornhusker fans should know all too well by now. Still, watching Green's highlight films and reading the words from his coaches, it is easy to get excited. Now, in addition to playing his final season of high school football, Green's biggest job is to urge some of his fellow Texans to join him in wearing the scarlet and cream in 2009.
Monday, July 7, 2008
The Old Saying About Opinions
There's an old saying that opinions are like grass holes. Everybody has them. Especially people with gophers and dogs who like to dig up stuff.
I'm no different. I have a grass hole. In fact, I'm so well known for it that my neighbors sometimes simply refer to me as "Grass hole," or that grass hole Bill who walks out to get the newspaper in his boxers and leaves his Halloween jack-o-lanterns out until St. Patrick's Day.
And, true to the saying, I also have opinions. I don't think pineapple belongs on a pizza. I think some of the smarter animals should be allowed to vote. I think if you call your product Grape Nuts it ought to include something resembling grapes and/or nuts.
As you might have guessed, I also have some opinions about the 2008 Cornhuskers and the Big 12. Opinions such as...
I'm no different. I have a grass hole. In fact, I'm so well known for it that my neighbors sometimes simply refer to me as "Grass hole," or that grass hole Bill who walks out to get the newspaper in his boxers and leaves his Halloween jack-o-lanterns out until St. Patrick's Day.
And, true to the saying, I also have opinions. I don't think pineapple belongs on a pizza. I think some of the smarter animals should be allowed to vote. I think if you call your product Grape Nuts it ought to include something resembling grapes and/or nuts.
As you might have guessed, I also have some opinions about the 2008 Cornhuskers and the Big 12. Opinions such as...
- Considering he is a lightly recruited, undersized quarterback who has started all of three college football games, I am surprisingly confident in Joe Ganz's ability to lead this squad. Obviously, his performance in those three games has a lot to do with it, but moreso it is the way he carries himself and the way his teammates respond to him. He's clearly the leader.
- I'm hoping the end of the Bill Callahan era also marks the end of Nebraska quarterbacks using the baseball slide to avoid a hit. That's just not Cornhusker football. Cornhusker football is getting every yard you can, even if you have to lay a shoulder into an opposing linebacker to do it.
- If there was ever a hire that just made sense on every single level, it was bringing on Tom Osborne as the NU athletic director.
- I think Larry Asante could emerge as a difference maker at safety. Last year's collective defensive performance was so poor, it was hard to pick out anyone who had a good year. Still I thought Asante showed some natural ability that will only get better with a year under his belt and superior coaching.
- Same goes for Ricky Thenarse. Once he gets comfortable and can be in the right place at the right time on instinct, he'll be an animal.
- Of all the coaching hires other than Bo, I am most jazzed about bringing back Marvin Sanders. If you'll recall, the 2003 Blackshirts ranked first in the nation in pass efficiency defense during Sanders' first stint in Lincoln. The next year, essentially the same secondary (under the tuteledge of a new staff) experienced a huge drop off in performance. Sanders' credentials are top notch, and the guy is a Husker through and through. Welcome back Coach.
- Hey, Quentin Castille, hold on to the ball! Just because you're big and tough like former Husker I-back Dan Alexander doesn't mean you need to be philanthropic with the rock like he was. Just hold on tight and you'll be great.
- I can't say I like Missouri QB Chase Daniel. He's cocky. He's smug. But he's also a heck of a quarterback.
- I'm not buying Colorado as this big team on the rise. Yes, they have scoreboard over the Huskers and they somehow upset OU last year. I'm not like the Monkees -- I'm not a believer. Other than defensive tackle George Hipolyte, their defense is thin. Their O-line has little to no depth. And I think it's fairly easy to rattle Cody Hawkins. Call me nuts, but I'm more concerned with the K-State game this year than the CU battle.
That's all for now, but don't worry. I have plenty more grass holes (damn gophers!), and a lot more opinions on Husker football.
Saturday, July 5, 2008
A Few Random Husker Thoughts
Just a few random Husker thoughts...
- The news on Josh Williams, an incoming freshman defensive end out of Texas, is certainly welcome. Williams and his fellow freshman DE Cameron Meredith will bolster a critical position on the D. We saw how much losing Adam Carriker and Jay Moore hurt the 2007 defense. Not being able to generate a pass rush tends to expose weaknesses everywhere else. Here's hoping Williams and Meredith help shore up this area of need.
- We need speed at linebacker. Think of the best Blackshirt defenses in recent memory and they had speed at LB. Guys like Tony Ortiz, Terrell Farley, Ed Stewart, Jamel Williams and Troy Dumas weren't 250-pounds, but they could run sideline to sideline and make it futile for opposing offenses to try to run to the outside. They were also effective covering running backs and tight ends out of the backfield. The last Husker linebacker to fit this prototype was Demorrio Williams, and he played a huge part in the Husker defensive resurgence during Bo Pelini's one year as Nebraska's defensive coordinator. Let's hope Coaches Pelini and Ekeler along with guys like Latravis Washington, Will Compton and Blake Lawrence can help restore speed to the Big Red backers.
- I was no big fan of Kevin Cosgrove during his stint as Husker defensive coordinator, and felt his old school Big 10 mindset simply didn't work against the better speed and more inventive offensive schemes of the Big 12. That said, the treatment he and his family received from a few so-called Husker fans toward the end of last year was shameful. To harrass his kids and call him with death threats was cowardly, and says a lot about how out of whack our priorities are getting. As far as I could tell, Cosgrove was a nice family man who worked hard and was loyal to the University. He just wasn't particularly good at his job. I'm guessing we all work with people like that, that doesn't mean we should make their lives a living hell. As for Husker fans, often called "the best fans in college football," is this another case of a small minority reflecting poorly on the vast majority? I'm sure it is. But that minority seems to get a little larger with each sub-par season. If we're going to claim to be the best, we need to do more than just show up and support the team, we need to do it with class and, as the song goes, "in all kinds of weather."
- Not only was yesterday Independence Day, it was also significant because we're now only one month away from the start of Fall Camp.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Recruiting and Vegas
Those of you who follow recruiting are undoubtedly aware that Cody Green, a highly regarded QB recruit from Texas has narrowed his choices down to Texas A&M and the Huskers, and apparently will announce his decision in the coming days.
While I certainly hope Green chooses red, I hope most of us have learned our lesson about getting too high or too low about recruiting (especially in July). At different points during the last few years, Curt Dukes, Harrison Beck, Josh Freeman and Blaine Gabbert have all been the future saviors of the Cornhusker Nation. Obviously, none have worked out.
This isn't to say recruiting isn't important or that we should shy away from going after four- and five-star athletes (Texas, USC, Ohio State and Florida have done pretty well with all those stars). My point is that recruiting is sort of like going to Las Vegas. It's easy to get very excited when you win some early hands in blackjack and get ahead by a few hundred bucks. You start thinking about building that money into a serious lump of cash, then going home and buying a new big TV or a flashy set of Pings. Maybe you'll get some fancy jewelry for the love in your life.
Unfortunately, Vegas, like recruiting, has a pretty good track record for crushing dreams. Just as those recruits aren't truly yours until they sign a letter of intent in February (and even then, there are no guarantees they'll pan out), Vegas winnings can't be spent until you've sobered up and left town.
That said, Mr. Green would look awfully good wearing the Scarlet and Cream. I wonder how many Heismans he'll win?
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
2008 Huskers: My Predictions (Big 12)
After getting through the non-conference, things are looking pretty good. The D hasn't been perfect, but the rebuilt Blackshirts are holding up thus far. Now things get tougher. It's time to hit the Big 12 schedule, and the Big Red starts out with last year's North Division champs...
October 4, Missouri -- As much as it sucks to admit it, Missouri was the real deal last year. Unfortunately, this year the core of the Big 12 North and Cotton Bowl champions returns to wreak havoc again. This one is at home, where NU has owned the Tigers for the last 30 years. Alas, Chase Daniel, Jeremy Maclin and Chase Coffman will be too much for the Huskers, and another streak will fall. Missouri 38 Nebraska 28.
October 11, @ Texas Tech -- If there's any thing less fun than being in Lubbock, Texas, it's being throttled by the local football team in Lubbock, Texas. The last time the Huskers ventured into Jones AT&T Stadium it was sunburn-slap-on-the-back painful. The good news is that this one won't spiral out of control like in 2004. The bad news is that this Red Raiders team has far more firepower than they did then. Texas Tech 45 Nebraska 38.
October 18, @ Iowa State -- Reeling from back-to-back losses for the first time since way back in 2007, the Huskers desperately need a W. They'll get one, but it won't be as easy as many will expect versus Gene Chizik's improving squad. This one will be close until the end when the Huskers put up a late score to add a little breathing room. Huskers 28 Cyclones 17.
October 25, Baylor -- After a two-year hiatus, the Cornhusker players and fans will enjoy having the Baylor Bears back on the schedule. New Baylor head man Art Briles is a fine coach, but this is a team still needing a serious talent upgrade. The Huskers put up their best combined effort during a beautiful fall afternoon in Lincoln. NU 56 Baylor 10.
November 1, @ Oklahoma -- Gaining momentum with the previous two games, the resurgent Blackshirts turn in a gutsy performance against Top 5 Oklahoma. Husker fans experience the highs and lows throughout a NU/OU throwback classic. Unfortunately, a late field goal from Sooners kicker Jimmy Stevens, and last second touchdown dashes the Huskers' upset hopes. Sooners 31 Huskers 24.
November 8, Kansas -- Emboldened by the close-but-no-cigar effort against Oklahoma and an emotional appeal from Bo Pelini and former Huskers on hand, the revenge-minded Cornhuskers come out punching against the Jayhawks. Talented KU signal caller Todd Reesing is stymied all day by a brilliantly coordinated Blackshirt D. For the Big Red, redemption is sweet. Nebraska 35 KU 21.
November 15, @ Kansas State -- Following emotional efforts the previous two weeks, a letdown loss could be in the cards here. It almost happens, as Josh Freeman fires passes as adeptly as he fires off text messages. The Huskers are outgained on the day, but come up with a few huge turnovers to squeek out a victory. Big Red 24 Little Apple 21.
November 28, Colorado -- While this one isn't for a berth in the Big 12 Championship (Missouri has wrapped it up) it is a hard fought battle between two teams that don't like each other much. Joe Ganz and Marlon Lucky show up big in their final games at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska 33 Colorado 10.
There you go. I'm going out on a bit of a limb and predicting 9-3 in 2008. I'll stand by these predictions, but you might want to watch and attend the games anyway, just in case I'm wrong.
October 4, Missouri -- As much as it sucks to admit it, Missouri was the real deal last year. Unfortunately, this year the core of the Big 12 North and Cotton Bowl champions returns to wreak havoc again. This one is at home, where NU has owned the Tigers for the last 30 years. Alas, Chase Daniel, Jeremy Maclin and Chase Coffman will be too much for the Huskers, and another streak will fall. Missouri 38 Nebraska 28.
October 11, @ Texas Tech -- If there's any thing less fun than being in Lubbock, Texas, it's being throttled by the local football team in Lubbock, Texas. The last time the Huskers ventured into Jones AT&T Stadium it was sunburn-slap-on-the-back painful. The good news is that this one won't spiral out of control like in 2004. The bad news is that this Red Raiders team has far more firepower than they did then. Texas Tech 45 Nebraska 38.
October 18, @ Iowa State -- Reeling from back-to-back losses for the first time since way back in 2007, the Huskers desperately need a W. They'll get one, but it won't be as easy as many will expect versus Gene Chizik's improving squad. This one will be close until the end when the Huskers put up a late score to add a little breathing room. Huskers 28 Cyclones 17.
October 25, Baylor -- After a two-year hiatus, the Cornhusker players and fans will enjoy having the Baylor Bears back on the schedule. New Baylor head man Art Briles is a fine coach, but this is a team still needing a serious talent upgrade. The Huskers put up their best combined effort during a beautiful fall afternoon in Lincoln. NU 56 Baylor 10.
November 1, @ Oklahoma -- Gaining momentum with the previous two games, the resurgent Blackshirts turn in a gutsy performance against Top 5 Oklahoma. Husker fans experience the highs and lows throughout a NU/OU throwback classic. Unfortunately, a late field goal from Sooners kicker Jimmy Stevens, and last second touchdown dashes the Huskers' upset hopes. Sooners 31 Huskers 24.
November 8, Kansas -- Emboldened by the close-but-no-cigar effort against Oklahoma and an emotional appeal from Bo Pelini and former Huskers on hand, the revenge-minded Cornhuskers come out punching against the Jayhawks. Talented KU signal caller Todd Reesing is stymied all day by a brilliantly coordinated Blackshirt D. For the Big Red, redemption is sweet. Nebraska 35 KU 21.
November 15, @ Kansas State -- Following emotional efforts the previous two weeks, a letdown loss could be in the cards here. It almost happens, as Josh Freeman fires passes as adeptly as he fires off text messages. The Huskers are outgained on the day, but come up with a few huge turnovers to squeek out a victory. Big Red 24 Little Apple 21.
November 28, Colorado -- While this one isn't for a berth in the Big 12 Championship (Missouri has wrapped it up) it is a hard fought battle between two teams that don't like each other much. Joe Ganz and Marlon Lucky show up big in their final games at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska 33 Colorado 10.
There you go. I'm going out on a bit of a limb and predicting 9-3 in 2008. I'll stand by these predictions, but you might want to watch and attend the games anyway, just in case I'm wrong.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
2008 Husker Schedule -- My Predictions (non conference)
When one reads about the 2008 version of the Nebraska Cornhuskers, the general feeling out there seems to be one of cautious optimism. Most people agree, the combination of a new coaching staff along with some good, if thus far underachieving, talent should result in a much better squad. Unfortunately, last year while the Big Red was taking a big step backward, several other teams in the Big 12 were taking huge leaps forward.
I too fall in the "cautiously optimistic" camp. While I'll go into greater detail with a full team preview as we get closer to Fall Camp, I see the elements of a potentially great Husker offense in 2008. Joe Ganz's performance at the end of 2007, combined with the return of a very deep stable of running backs and a very solid and experienced offensive line (and the return of Offensive Coordinator Shawn Watson), has me believing that this offense should be able to put up points against anyone on the schedule.
Of course, the big question is the defense. Last year's D was horrendous -- so much so that the Huskers lost games in which they put up 31 points, 39 points and 51 points. Yikes. The good news is that Bo is back. Wherever Coach Pelini has overseen the D in the last five years, success has followed. And, while there may not be many pre-season All-Americans on the 2008 Blackshirts, the cupboard isn't completely bare either. I expect drastic improvement and look forward to seeing the Blackshirts fly to the ball carriers again. Still, there are some big holes here, most notably at linebacker and depth along the D-line.
So what does it all mean? How will the season break down? Here's my shot at a prediction:
August 30, Western Michigan -- I've already read many columns and articles suggesting the beginning of the Bo era could be an ambush. Western Michigan returns 11 starters on defense, and last year upset Iowa on the road, blah, blah, blah. I'm not buying it. The Big Red players, coaches and fans will be too pumped for this one to end in a loss. NU 56 W. Michigan 24.
September 6, San Jose State -- SJ St. coach Dick Tomey, who came out on top of NU in the 1998 Holiday Bowl while leading the Arizona Wildcats, will lead his relatively talented Spartan team into Lincoln. Tomey is a very good coach, but the talent won't be there to pull off an upset. NU 38 San Jose St. 21.
September 13, New Mexico St. -- I've always told people that one of the key ingredients for an upset is the underdog having a very good quarterback. That is the case here as the Aggies bring in senior Chase Holbrook and a crazy passing attack to try to upset the Huskers. This will be closer than we'd like in the first half, but the Aggie D won't be good enough to stop Joe Ganz and the Huskers. NU 48 NM St. 28.
September 27, Virginia Tech -- This is the first of what I will call "swing games." These are the games that could really go either way. Virginia Tech is a quality opponent, but has some significant holes to fill, especially at running back. I say the Big Red pulls this out in the fourth quarter. NU 28 Va Tech 24.
An undefeated non-conference. Pretty nice start. But things get much tougher from here. I'll tackle the conference schedule in my next blog entry.
G0 Big Red!
I too fall in the "cautiously optimistic" camp. While I'll go into greater detail with a full team preview as we get closer to Fall Camp, I see the elements of a potentially great Husker offense in 2008. Joe Ganz's performance at the end of 2007, combined with the return of a very deep stable of running backs and a very solid and experienced offensive line (and the return of Offensive Coordinator Shawn Watson), has me believing that this offense should be able to put up points against anyone on the schedule.
Of course, the big question is the defense. Last year's D was horrendous -- so much so that the Huskers lost games in which they put up 31 points, 39 points and 51 points. Yikes. The good news is that Bo is back. Wherever Coach Pelini has overseen the D in the last five years, success has followed. And, while there may not be many pre-season All-Americans on the 2008 Blackshirts, the cupboard isn't completely bare either. I expect drastic improvement and look forward to seeing the Blackshirts fly to the ball carriers again. Still, there are some big holes here, most notably at linebacker and depth along the D-line.
So what does it all mean? How will the season break down? Here's my shot at a prediction:
August 30, Western Michigan -- I've already read many columns and articles suggesting the beginning of the Bo era could be an ambush. Western Michigan returns 11 starters on defense, and last year upset Iowa on the road, blah, blah, blah. I'm not buying it. The Big Red players, coaches and fans will be too pumped for this one to end in a loss. NU 56 W. Michigan 24.
September 6, San Jose State -- SJ St. coach Dick Tomey, who came out on top of NU in the 1998 Holiday Bowl while leading the Arizona Wildcats, will lead his relatively talented Spartan team into Lincoln. Tomey is a very good coach, but the talent won't be there to pull off an upset. NU 38 San Jose St. 21.
September 13, New Mexico St. -- I've always told people that one of the key ingredients for an upset is the underdog having a very good quarterback. That is the case here as the Aggies bring in senior Chase Holbrook and a crazy passing attack to try to upset the Huskers. This will be closer than we'd like in the first half, but the Aggie D won't be good enough to stop Joe Ganz and the Huskers. NU 48 NM St. 28.
September 27, Virginia Tech -- This is the first of what I will call "swing games." These are the games that could really go either way. Virginia Tech is a quality opponent, but has some significant holes to fill, especially at running back. I say the Big Red pulls this out in the fourth quarter. NU 28 Va Tech 24.
An undefeated non-conference. Pretty nice start. But things get much tougher from here. I'll tackle the conference schedule in my next blog entry.
G0 Big Red!
Saturday, June 28, 2008
How Relevant is QB Height?
The other day I was reading about Tyler Gabbert, a 6-foot, 175-pound QB about to begin his junior season at St. Louis' Parkway West. Of course, Husker fans recognize the last name of Gabbert, since Blaine Gabbert (Tyler's older brother) was a 5-star NU commit until everything fell apart for the Big Red last year and he, along with many other big name commits jumped ship.
As I was scanning the younger Gabbert's bio on one of the recruiting sites, his listed height of a mere 6-foot temporarily gave me pause. He doesn't fit the quarterback prototype we've been brainwashed to seek. He isn't 6-5. He isn't 230 pounds of muscle (although he is only 15 years old, so he'll likely get quite a bit bigger). After initially bemoaning the fact that a potential future Husker didn't have the ideal measurements, I thought for a second, "Wait. Does it matter?"
I'm here to propose that in college football, while a quarterback's height isn't completely irrelevant, it doesn't mean that much. Consider the Big 12 -- a league completely stocked with talent behind center. Missoui's Chase Daniel had few problems tearing up opposing defenses despite his sub-6-foot frame. Same with 5-11 signal callers Todd Reesing of Kansas and Cody Hawkins at Colorado. And, of course, our own Joe Ganz who is generously listed at 6-1, clearly outplayed the taller Sam Keller when he got his chance at the end of last season. Other college quarterbacks who will never be asked to stand at the back of the team photo and yet are all-conference candidates include: West Virginia's Pat White, South Florida's Matt Grothe and Wake Forest's Riley Skinner.
The idea that tall quarterbacks were always preferable has always come from the thought that their height would better allow them to see over the linemen and scan the field. This is still valid. However as so many college offenses have begun to move to some version of the spread, where the offensive linemen, the receivers and by necessity the defenders are spread throughout the field, it offers better vision for shorter quarterbacks and lessens the importance of height. Also, because generally smaller quarterbacks tend to be quicker in the pocket than their bigger peers( I know there are exceptions), they are able to evade an oncoming rush more effectively, and can limit the aggressiveness of opposing defenses.
So, is the height of a QB important? Yes and no. If I were creating the ideal college quarterback, I would probably give him the skills and measureables of a Vince Young: 6-3 to 6-5, fast, elusive, accurate with a strong arm. However, there aren't that many out there like Vince. That said, here's how I would rate the importance of the attributes of a college quarterback:
1. Accuracy/smarts -- the ability to run an offense and put the ball where it needs to be are musts.
2. (tie) Quickness and arm strength -- A quarterback who is a threat with his arm and his feet can cause sleepless nights for opposing defensive coordinators. While arm strength is important and will wow the pro scouts, it's certainly possible to be a very effective college QB without a cannon.
3. Height -- Again, I'd take a tall, quick, accurate QB over a short, quick, accurate QB, but I would also take a short, quick, accurate QB with average arm strength over a tall, lumbering, accurate QB with a strong arm.
The effectiveness of smaller college QBs who don't fit the prototype seems to support this kind of ranking. And, for schools that aren't traditional gridiron powers (see: Missouri, Kansas, South Florida) recruiting effective smaller quarterbacks who are turned away by the bigger schools looking for Matt Ryan clones, represents a chance to strengthen their programs and play with the big boys.
One last thought: notice that I have been careful to say "college" quarterbacks when making my claims. In NFL offenses, where the quarterbacks tend to stay in the pocket more and the relative skill of defensive backs and pash rushers make getting rid of the ball and putting some serious zip on it hugely important, size still matters. But even in the NFL, there is still a place for a heady, non-traditional QB like a Drew Brees.
What does it all mean? To me, it means we're in good hands with Joe Ganz, and if Tyler Gabbert wants to wear the red some day, it's fine by me. And if his 6-5 brother wants to transfer too...
As I was scanning the younger Gabbert's bio on one of the recruiting sites, his listed height of a mere 6-foot temporarily gave me pause. He doesn't fit the quarterback prototype we've been brainwashed to seek. He isn't 6-5. He isn't 230 pounds of muscle (although he is only 15 years old, so he'll likely get quite a bit bigger). After initially bemoaning the fact that a potential future Husker didn't have the ideal measurements, I thought for a second, "Wait. Does it matter?"
I'm here to propose that in college football, while a quarterback's height isn't completely irrelevant, it doesn't mean that much. Consider the Big 12 -- a league completely stocked with talent behind center. Missoui's Chase Daniel had few problems tearing up opposing defenses despite his sub-6-foot frame. Same with 5-11 signal callers Todd Reesing of Kansas and Cody Hawkins at Colorado. And, of course, our own Joe Ganz who is generously listed at 6-1, clearly outplayed the taller Sam Keller when he got his chance at the end of last season. Other college quarterbacks who will never be asked to stand at the back of the team photo and yet are all-conference candidates include: West Virginia's Pat White, South Florida's Matt Grothe and Wake Forest's Riley Skinner.
The idea that tall quarterbacks were always preferable has always come from the thought that their height would better allow them to see over the linemen and scan the field. This is still valid. However as so many college offenses have begun to move to some version of the spread, where the offensive linemen, the receivers and by necessity the defenders are spread throughout the field, it offers better vision for shorter quarterbacks and lessens the importance of height. Also, because generally smaller quarterbacks tend to be quicker in the pocket than their bigger peers( I know there are exceptions), they are able to evade an oncoming rush more effectively, and can limit the aggressiveness of opposing defenses.
So, is the height of a QB important? Yes and no. If I were creating the ideal college quarterback, I would probably give him the skills and measureables of a Vince Young: 6-3 to 6-5, fast, elusive, accurate with a strong arm. However, there aren't that many out there like Vince. That said, here's how I would rate the importance of the attributes of a college quarterback:
1. Accuracy/smarts -- the ability to run an offense and put the ball where it needs to be are musts.
2. (tie) Quickness and arm strength -- A quarterback who is a threat with his arm and his feet can cause sleepless nights for opposing defensive coordinators. While arm strength is important and will wow the pro scouts, it's certainly possible to be a very effective college QB without a cannon.
3. Height -- Again, I'd take a tall, quick, accurate QB over a short, quick, accurate QB, but I would also take a short, quick, accurate QB with average arm strength over a tall, lumbering, accurate QB with a strong arm.
The effectiveness of smaller college QBs who don't fit the prototype seems to support this kind of ranking. And, for schools that aren't traditional gridiron powers (see: Missouri, Kansas, South Florida) recruiting effective smaller quarterbacks who are turned away by the bigger schools looking for Matt Ryan clones, represents a chance to strengthen their programs and play with the big boys.
One last thought: notice that I have been careful to say "college" quarterbacks when making my claims. In NFL offenses, where the quarterbacks tend to stay in the pocket more and the relative skill of defensive backs and pash rushers make getting rid of the ball and putting some serious zip on it hugely important, size still matters. But even in the NFL, there is still a place for a heady, non-traditional QB like a Drew Brees.
What does it all mean? To me, it means we're in good hands with Joe Ganz, and if Tyler Gabbert wants to wear the red some day, it's fine by me. And if his 6-5 brother wants to transfer too...
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Face of the Team, Last Four Decades
If you visit espn.com, you probably have seen their list of the "Faces of the Program" from each D-1 school. For Nebraska, it was a no-brainer: Tom Osborne was the clear choice. Given that T.O. was too easy of a pick, I've decided to jot down who I think are the Husker Faces of the Program (players only) for the decades of the 70s, 80s, 90s and 2000s. Here we go:
1970s Face of the Cornhuskers: Johnny Rodgers -- This one is pretty easy. Johnny R. Superstar won NU's first Heisman Trophy and was a lethal weapon for Bob Devaney's offense. His incredible punt return against OU in the 1971 Game of the Century will always be one of the iconic moments in college football history. Honorable mention goes to Rich Glover, John Dutton, I.M. Hipp.
1980s Face of the Cornhuskers: Turner Gill -- This was the toughest choice. It isn't easy turning down 1983 Heisman Trophy winner Mike Rozier for this prestigious honor, but whereas Rozier was sickly talented, Gill was the leader of scoring explosion. Gill, the current coach of the Buffalo Bulls, was really the prototype QB for the Huskers' option system, and has continued to represent the program with character and integrity. Honorable mention goes to: Rozier, Dave Rimington, Dean Steinkuhler.
1990s Face of the Cornhuskers: Tommie Frazier -- This was another easy one. Through most of the 90s, the Huskers were overflowing with great talent. Still, Tommie was unquestionably the catalyst and the player most thought of when mentioning that golden era. Surprisingly, of the four decades in question, this is the only one without a Heisman winner. Of course, we all realize this was a joke, as no college football player was more deserving of the award during the 90s than Touchdown Tommie. Honorable mention: Grant Wistrom, Trev Alberts, Scott Frost, Ahman Green.
2000s Face of the Cornhuskers: Eric Crouch -- The new millennium obviously hasn't lived up to the previous three decades, but there were some good times closer to Y2K. That's back when Eric Crouch was using his speed and quickness to shred opposing defenses. Though Crouch didn't win a national championship ring like Frazier, Brook Berringer or Scott Frost, he did walk away with the Huskers third Heisman Trophy. Honorable mention: Toniu Fonoti, Zac Taylor, Maurice Purify, Barrett Ruud.
That's all for now. Spread the word about the Cornhusker Blog.
1970s Face of the Cornhuskers: Johnny Rodgers -- This one is pretty easy. Johnny R. Superstar won NU's first Heisman Trophy and was a lethal weapon for Bob Devaney's offense. His incredible punt return against OU in the 1971 Game of the Century will always be one of the iconic moments in college football history. Honorable mention goes to Rich Glover, John Dutton, I.M. Hipp.
1980s Face of the Cornhuskers: Turner Gill -- This was the toughest choice. It isn't easy turning down 1983 Heisman Trophy winner Mike Rozier for this prestigious honor, but whereas Rozier was sickly talented, Gill was the leader of scoring explosion. Gill, the current coach of the Buffalo Bulls, was really the prototype QB for the Huskers' option system, and has continued to represent the program with character and integrity. Honorable mention goes to: Rozier, Dave Rimington, Dean Steinkuhler.
1990s Face of the Cornhuskers: Tommie Frazier -- This was another easy one. Through most of the 90s, the Huskers were overflowing with great talent. Still, Tommie was unquestionably the catalyst and the player most thought of when mentioning that golden era. Surprisingly, of the four decades in question, this is the only one without a Heisman winner. Of course, we all realize this was a joke, as no college football player was more deserving of the award during the 90s than Touchdown Tommie. Honorable mention: Grant Wistrom, Trev Alberts, Scott Frost, Ahman Green.
2000s Face of the Cornhuskers: Eric Crouch -- The new millennium obviously hasn't lived up to the previous three decades, but there were some good times closer to Y2K. That's back when Eric Crouch was using his speed and quickness to shred opposing defenses. Though Crouch didn't win a national championship ring like Frazier, Brook Berringer or Scott Frost, he did walk away with the Huskers third Heisman Trophy. Honorable mention: Toniu Fonoti, Zac Taylor, Maurice Purify, Barrett Ruud.
That's all for now. Spread the word about the Cornhusker Blog.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Info from athletic dept. re: possible pay-per-view
I got a nice message from Marc Boehm at the NU Athletic Department regarding the possibility of pay-per-view broadcasts for the first three Husker games, which otherwise wouldn't be televised. In short, it sounds like plenty needs to be worked out, but the athletic department is pursuing that possibility. Here's Mr. Boehm's message:
Bill-We are currently working with FSN Midwest to get the games on pay-per-view. Obviously these things take a little time, but I see no problem in getting this done. Many thanks for your support. Marc
Sure is nice to get a prompt, friendly response.
Bill-We are currently working with FSN Midwest to get the games on pay-per-view. Obviously these things take a little time, but I see no problem in getting this done. Many thanks for your support. Marc
Sure is nice to get a prompt, friendly response.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Best Old Games to Watch
Hey everyone,
Even though I just kicked off the Cornhusker Blog, I figured it was fairly lame to only have one post, so I thought I'd throw one more post out there before hitting the sack. This time of year, when I'm seriously jonesing for some Husker football, but the season is still months away, I start pulling out tapes from my well-worn Nebraska football video collection. Of those tapes, here are my five favorites...
1) Huskers vs. Hurricanes, 1995 Orange Bowl -- Okay, this is an easy one. Dr. Tom's first national championship. I watched this epic tilt again about a week ago and still got a little emotional when Kareem Moss picked off the Frank Costa pass to end the game. I dropped a few notches in the eyes of my wife and kids that day, but I still enjoyed it. A quick bit of trivia: if you watch that game closely, you can see Dwayne Johnson, aka the Rock, playing as a reserve for the Miami defensive line.
2) NU vs. Florida, 1996 Fiesta Bowl -- Yeah, another easy one. The previous year's national championship was far more dramatic and probably meant more since it was T.O.'s first, but the mauling of the Gators was more fun. There were just so many great plays in this one, from Tommie Frazier's "how many tackles can one man break?" touchdown run, to the tide-turning safety of Danny Wuerrfel, to Michael Booker's interception return for a TD near the end of the first half. Despite what Kirk Herbstreit might think, the 1995 version of the Big Red is the standard for great college football teams. Period.
3) Huskers vs. Mizzou, 1997 -- It's hard to come up with a more exciting finish to a game than this gem. Tigers signal caller Corby Jones played lights out and stymied a tough Blackshirt D all day, but in the end (of regulation, anyway) Scott Frost, Matt Davison and Shevin Wiggins' Addidas saved the day and made it possible for Tom Osborne to win a share of the national title in his final season as coach. It was also a fitting end to the game when Missouri natives Grant Wistrom and Mike Rucker converged on Jones to seal the Husker victory.
4) Huskers vs. Sooners, 2001 -- Of all the epic NU/OU games over the years, this is the best one...I have on tape. Seriously, you could argue this was Nebraska's last great win (a fairly depressing statement). It wasn't a pretty, highlight-filled game, but it had plenty of drama and the reverse pass to Eric Crouch certainly goes down as one of the most memorable plays of the last 40 years of Husker football. The Blackshirts really played tough in this one, making it so mind-bloggling when they played so badly against Colorado three games later.
5) NU vs. CU, 1994 -- With Tommie Frazier out with a blood clot in his leg, Brook Berringer filled in marvelously as the Huskers upset a tough Colorado team. While Berringer was understandably got most of the headlines afterward, it was the tough as nails Husker D that set the tone in this one. Future NFL'er Kordell Stewart was hit hard and hit often as the men in red rolled to a decisive 24-7 win.
Honorable mention: 2000 Alamo Bowl win over Northwestern (good, old-fashioned running up the score), 1997 victory over Oklahoma (Dr. Tom's 250th win, OU was horrid, Bobby Newcombe made some nice plays), 1986 season opener against Florida State (Steve Taylor was impressive, Bobby Bowden was still old back then).
Even though I just kicked off the Cornhusker Blog, I figured it was fairly lame to only have one post, so I thought I'd throw one more post out there before hitting the sack. This time of year, when I'm seriously jonesing for some Husker football, but the season is still months away, I start pulling out tapes from my well-worn Nebraska football video collection. Of those tapes, here are my five favorites...
1) Huskers vs. Hurricanes, 1995 Orange Bowl -- Okay, this is an easy one. Dr. Tom's first national championship. I watched this epic tilt again about a week ago and still got a little emotional when Kareem Moss picked off the Frank Costa pass to end the game. I dropped a few notches in the eyes of my wife and kids that day, but I still enjoyed it. A quick bit of trivia: if you watch that game closely, you can see Dwayne Johnson, aka the Rock, playing as a reserve for the Miami defensive line.
2) NU vs. Florida, 1996 Fiesta Bowl -- Yeah, another easy one. The previous year's national championship was far more dramatic and probably meant more since it was T.O.'s first, but the mauling of the Gators was more fun. There were just so many great plays in this one, from Tommie Frazier's "how many tackles can one man break?" touchdown run, to the tide-turning safety of Danny Wuerrfel, to Michael Booker's interception return for a TD near the end of the first half. Despite what Kirk Herbstreit might think, the 1995 version of the Big Red is the standard for great college football teams. Period.
3) Huskers vs. Mizzou, 1997 -- It's hard to come up with a more exciting finish to a game than this gem. Tigers signal caller Corby Jones played lights out and stymied a tough Blackshirt D all day, but in the end (of regulation, anyway) Scott Frost, Matt Davison and Shevin Wiggins' Addidas saved the day and made it possible for Tom Osborne to win a share of the national title in his final season as coach. It was also a fitting end to the game when Missouri natives Grant Wistrom and Mike Rucker converged on Jones to seal the Husker victory.
4) Huskers vs. Sooners, 2001 -- Of all the epic NU/OU games over the years, this is the best one...I have on tape. Seriously, you could argue this was Nebraska's last great win (a fairly depressing statement). It wasn't a pretty, highlight-filled game, but it had plenty of drama and the reverse pass to Eric Crouch certainly goes down as one of the most memorable plays of the last 40 years of Husker football. The Blackshirts really played tough in this one, making it so mind-bloggling when they played so badly against Colorado three games later.
5) NU vs. CU, 1994 -- With Tommie Frazier out with a blood clot in his leg, Brook Berringer filled in marvelously as the Huskers upset a tough Colorado team. While Berringer was understandably got most of the headlines afterward, it was the tough as nails Husker D that set the tone in this one. Future NFL'er Kordell Stewart was hit hard and hit often as the men in red rolled to a decisive 24-7 win.
Honorable mention: 2000 Alamo Bowl win over Northwestern (good, old-fashioned running up the score), 1997 victory over Oklahoma (Dr. Tom's 250th win, OU was horrid, Bobby Newcombe made some nice plays), 1986 season opener against Florida State (Steve Taylor was impressive, Bobby Bowden was still old back then).
Five Questions for the Upcoming Season
Hey Husker Fans! Welcome to the inaugural post of The Cornhusker Blog.
If you're like me, you are starting to get a little impatient for the start of the 2008 Nebraska football season. It has already been a loooooonnnnng, strange off-season, and we've still got about a month-and-a-half until Fall Camp starts. Passing the time isn't easy. I've begun pulling out old VHS tapes from the glory years, reading all the national publications and scanning the Web for any serviceable Husker scoop.
It's just not enough.
Therefore, I figured I'd post five intriguing questions for the upcoming season and what I consider to be the answers. Here it goes...
1) How will the Huskers be different under Bo Pelini and the (mostly) new coaching staff?
Changing mindsets isn't a piece of cake, but from what I've seen out of Bo Pelini during his previous stint as the Husker DC as well as his stops at Oklahoma and LSU, he is a coach who inspires his minions to play with uncommon intensity. That intensity was sorely lacking during the debacle of 2007 -- especially on defense where the Blackshirts typically looked slow, confused and uninterested. Bo's pedigree encourages me that even if we don't yet have the overall talent to be a top-flight defense, we should expect to see far more turnovers, improved quickness and a nastier attitude. As for the other coaching hires, I love the return of Marvin Sanders as the DB coach, and am jazzed to see if the linebacking corps can possibly play with as much energy as is displayed by new backer coach Mike Ekeler.
2) Other than the obvious (Lucky, Ganz, Swift), who on offense will stand out?
I'll start with a few of the big dudes from what I think can be a stellar offensive line. During the spring we heard and saw reasons to believe Lydon Murtha might start realizing his incredible potential as a prototype NFL left tackle. I was also very impressed and expect a bright future from Murtha's young counterpart on the right side, Jaivorio Burkes. At the tight end spot, I'd really like to see Mike McNeill step up and give the Big Red a Matt Herian-like receiving threat. Look for Quentin Castille and Roy Helu to step up as nice change-of-pace options at the running back spot as well. I'll go on the record as saying Quentin Castille can be the best big back NU has ever had, if he can just hang on to the ball.
3) Same question for the defensive side of the ball.
While the overall talent level isn't where it needs to be to turn this group into a vintage Blackshirt D, there are some bright spots that I think will get even brighter under Bo's watch. Rickey Thenarse and Ndamukong Suh immediately come to mind as guys who have All-America upside and will benefit from a fresh start under the new regime. Of the many positives that came from spring practice, I was most pleased to hear the news that Phillip Dillard had slimmed down considerably. With a new emphasis on speed at linebacker, I expect Dillard to have a big year. Throwing out one unexpected name, I'll say a similarly trimmed-down Pierre Allen will emerge as a player who can come off the bench and pressure opposing QBs.
4) Other than the most obvious (Oklahoma), which game frightens you the most this year?
Well, the last time the Huskers played in Lubbock it was uglier than the Beano Cook/Pamela Anderson honeymoon video, so I'll go with the Red Raiders. (As a side note, right around when Beau Davis threw his 12th interception during that game, I broke one of the ceiling fans in my house...seriously pissing off my wife. Please share if you have any embarrassing "breaking stuff during a game" stories. Although if they have anything to do with harming people or animals, you should probably keep them to yourself.) The Missouri game will also be tough, as the Tigers return most of their starting squad and will begin the season solidly in the top ten.
6) What happened to the fifth question?!?
Oops. Sorry.
5) What qualifies you to voice your opinions on college football?
While this is the age of anarchic social media and people don't actually have to know anything in order to post their thoughts on a topic, I at least have some basic qualifications to be a Big Red Blogger. In addition to being a UNL grad (Class of '93), and a genuine Cornhusker football fanatic since I watched Ric Berns rumble through Barry Switzer's Oklahoma defense in 1978 (Dr. Tom's first victory over the Sooners), I have also previously written regular columns for collegefootballnews.com and Huskerpedia.com. I also played on some awesome intramural flag football teams during my college days. Remember the Swinging Beef defense of 1991? Anyone?
That's it for now. Please share your thoughts and tell other Big Red lovers to visit thecorhnuskerblog.blogspot.com.
--Bill
If you're like me, you are starting to get a little impatient for the start of the 2008 Nebraska football season. It has already been a loooooonnnnng, strange off-season, and we've still got about a month-and-a-half until Fall Camp starts. Passing the time isn't easy. I've begun pulling out old VHS tapes from the glory years, reading all the national publications and scanning the Web for any serviceable Husker scoop.
It's just not enough.
Therefore, I figured I'd post five intriguing questions for the upcoming season and what I consider to be the answers. Here it goes...
1) How will the Huskers be different under Bo Pelini and the (mostly) new coaching staff?
Changing mindsets isn't a piece of cake, but from what I've seen out of Bo Pelini during his previous stint as the Husker DC as well as his stops at Oklahoma and LSU, he is a coach who inspires his minions to play with uncommon intensity. That intensity was sorely lacking during the debacle of 2007 -- especially on defense where the Blackshirts typically looked slow, confused and uninterested. Bo's pedigree encourages me that even if we don't yet have the overall talent to be a top-flight defense, we should expect to see far more turnovers, improved quickness and a nastier attitude. As for the other coaching hires, I love the return of Marvin Sanders as the DB coach, and am jazzed to see if the linebacking corps can possibly play with as much energy as is displayed by new backer coach Mike Ekeler.
2) Other than the obvious (Lucky, Ganz, Swift), who on offense will stand out?
I'll start with a few of the big dudes from what I think can be a stellar offensive line. During the spring we heard and saw reasons to believe Lydon Murtha might start realizing his incredible potential as a prototype NFL left tackle. I was also very impressed and expect a bright future from Murtha's young counterpart on the right side, Jaivorio Burkes. At the tight end spot, I'd really like to see Mike McNeill step up and give the Big Red a Matt Herian-like receiving threat. Look for Quentin Castille and Roy Helu to step up as nice change-of-pace options at the running back spot as well. I'll go on the record as saying Quentin Castille can be the best big back NU has ever had, if he can just hang on to the ball.
3) Same question for the defensive side of the ball.
While the overall talent level isn't where it needs to be to turn this group into a vintage Blackshirt D, there are some bright spots that I think will get even brighter under Bo's watch. Rickey Thenarse and Ndamukong Suh immediately come to mind as guys who have All-America upside and will benefit from a fresh start under the new regime. Of the many positives that came from spring practice, I was most pleased to hear the news that Phillip Dillard had slimmed down considerably. With a new emphasis on speed at linebacker, I expect Dillard to have a big year. Throwing out one unexpected name, I'll say a similarly trimmed-down Pierre Allen will emerge as a player who can come off the bench and pressure opposing QBs.
4) Other than the most obvious (Oklahoma), which game frightens you the most this year?
Well, the last time the Huskers played in Lubbock it was uglier than the Beano Cook/Pamela Anderson honeymoon video, so I'll go with the Red Raiders. (As a side note, right around when Beau Davis threw his 12th interception during that game, I broke one of the ceiling fans in my house...seriously pissing off my wife. Please share if you have any embarrassing "breaking stuff during a game" stories. Although if they have anything to do with harming people or animals, you should probably keep them to yourself.) The Missouri game will also be tough, as the Tigers return most of their starting squad and will begin the season solidly in the top ten.
6) What happened to the fifth question?!?
Oops. Sorry.
5) What qualifies you to voice your opinions on college football?
While this is the age of anarchic social media and people don't actually have to know anything in order to post their thoughts on a topic, I at least have some basic qualifications to be a Big Red Blogger. In addition to being a UNL grad (Class of '93), and a genuine Cornhusker football fanatic since I watched Ric Berns rumble through Barry Switzer's Oklahoma defense in 1978 (Dr. Tom's first victory over the Sooners), I have also previously written regular columns for collegefootballnews.com and Huskerpedia.com. I also played on some awesome intramural flag football teams during my college days. Remember the Swinging Beef defense of 1991? Anyone?
That's it for now. Please share your thoughts and tell other Big Red lovers to visit thecorhnuskerblog.blogspot.com.
--Bill
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