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.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
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.
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