Bleacher Report - Articles by Andy P

Letter to Heisman Voters: Heisman Should Go to Nebraska's Ndamukong Suh

Andy P — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 12:40:14 -0500

Never have I been more convinced than after watching the Big 12 Title game last night of who the "Most Outstanding Player" in the country is. That three word phrase, "Most Oustanding Player" is the key.

Why?

Because on Monday, all electronic balloting for the Heisman Trophy will be done, and in the letter to all voters describing how to vote, it simply states vote for the "Most Outstanding Player" in 2009.

It says nothing of giving special consideration to those players who throw, run, or catch the ball.

No where does it say that the Heisman recipient must be the offensive "Most Valuable Player" from a team competing for a national championship.

It also says nothing of making it a career award. It specifically says 2009, a singular year.

So, who is the Most Outstanding Player in college football in 2009?

Without doubt, that man is University of Nebraska defensive tackle No. 93 Ndamukong Suh.

Suh's performance last night was something so extraordinary. The Texas offensive line was supposed to be one of the best in the country, yet he treated each and every member of that offensive line like a high schooler.

Suh beat them in every way imaginable. He beat them with pure strength, with speed, with quickness, by using his hands to shed blockers, and almost always while being double teamed! Suh easily split these double teams, ran around them, or pushed them back, collapsing the pocket around Texas quarterback Colt McCoy

After the game, Brent Musberger said it best, stating, "I have never ever seen a defensive player dominate a game in such a manner!"

Neither have I Brent.

At the postgame press conference, Texas Head Coach Mack Brown said, without mincing words, that he is glad Suh is going to the NFL next year. Brown asked rhetorically, "Suh isn't a junior is he?"

During the post game press conference Texas quarterback Colt McCoy was asked about Suh specifically. With a wry smile McCoy, replied, "I am glad I am sitting here at this table and not on the field, I got hit a lot."

Understatement of the year.

Another reporter asked what McCoy thought of Suh and he sarcastically replied, "We're best friends."

You could see the relief in Browns face and feel the the rest of the Big 12 breathe a sigh of relief when he was reassured that yes, in fact, Suh will not be playing for the Cornhuskers in 2010.

Suh's stat line from last night is absurd for a defensive tackle that is 6'4" 300" lbs and has to regularly fight off two and three guys his size or bigger:

12 total tackles, 7 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks and numerous quarterback hurries.

To this point in 2009, Suh has amassed 81 tackles, 23 tackles for loss, 12 sacks, 22 quarterback hurries, 10 pass break ups, 3 blocked field goals and an interception.

For the second straight year, Suh is leading the Cornhusker defense in tackles, quarterback sacks, quarterback hurries, tackles for loss, blocked field goals, and is second on the team with 10 pass break ups as a defensive tackle!

All this is more amazing considering the fact that every one, every offensive coordinator, every head coach knew about Suh coming into 2009 off the heels of his 2008 performance.

They game planned and schemed to control Suh, yet more often than not, Suh controlled the offensive lines. They tried to keep him from destroying their offensive plans, yet he had an even better year than in 2008!

That means something.

In a year when no offensive player has put up typical Heisman numbers of the latest quarterbacks or running backs to win the award, it is time for the voters to open their eyes and their minds to the fact that the best player in the country in fact plays on the defensive side of the ball.

You say Tim Tebow? No way. Tebow was merely more than a field general/game manager in 2009 and when faced with a good defense last night, he didn't get it done. Not even close.

Typical passing numbers for a Heisman winning quarterback of late seem to be in the neighborhood of 3500 passing yards, 35 passing td's and less than 10 interceptions. Tebow isn't close.

And the same can be said for Colt McCoy. Suh and Nebraska destroyed and embarrassed McCoy's Heisman Trophy hopes. You say career award for McCoy? Nope, that isn't what the Heisman is about. On the heels of his performance last night, it would be a sham if McCoy wins it.

Suh nearly single-handedly destroyed McCoy's Heisman hopes and should get the votes that McCoy would have got.

You say Alabama's Mark Ingram? I say check the stats of other Heisman backs of late and Ingram falls a bit short.

In the end, if Suh doesn't at minimum get an invite to New York City for the Heisman award ceremony, then the Heisman has become a complete farce!

Yes, I may be a Nebraska fan or homer, but I know outstanding and special talent when I see it, and he just happens to where the uniform of my home state favorite team.

The "Most Outstanding Player" in college football in 2009 is Ndamukong Suh.

My ballot would be: No.1 Ndamukong Suh

No. 2 C. J. Spiller

No. 3 Toby Gerhardt

Big 12 Office and Referees Nudge Texas Longhorns Into BCS Title Game

Andy P — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 05:36:37 -0500

Right now, I can't say that I am hardly surprised with the way the outcome of the Big 12 Title game transpired.

As I said earlier in the week, the Longhorn offensive line would be allowed to strangle, wrangle, and go WWE on the Nebraska defensive line. Well, that certainly turned out to be the case.

Funny though, that even being allowed the absolute immunity from holding calls that the Longhorns offensive line still got dominated by the Nebraska front four. To the tune of nine sacks, at least 10 tackles for losses ,and numerous hurries of quarterback Colt McCoy.

Oh, but they did get called twice for illegal and dirty chop blocks to the knees of star defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh. On one of these plays, the center made no attempt to engage Suh, rather he dove directly at Suh's knees. Classy!

Interesting that with all that pressure and disruption applied by a four man rush that not one flag found its way out of a referees pocket for offensive holding!!

Extensive pressure and an offensive line having difficulty containing that pressure usually leads to holding penalties. Well, apparently not. At least that is when it is the offensive line of the Texas Longhorns.

I remember one play in particular because the offensive guard for Texas nearly tore the shoulder pads and jersey off of Suh. Yet, even with being nearly strangled, Suh still manhandled this guy, pushing him several yards into the backfield and somehow managed to make one of his seven tackles behind the line of scrimmage.

There were at least two other plays that saw Suh cleary being nearly strangled and held and yet he still made the play for minimal to no gain.

Texas was also the beneficiary of two very questionable pass interference calls in the second half that aided them in scoring six points. One, on a third a six play, was particularly important because it extended a drive. When McCoy was under heavy pressure, he threw the ball away out of bounds, about five feet over the head and away from the receiver.

The Nebraska defender was hardly hand-checking the receiver and the ball was in no way catch-able, yet out came the flag to give McCoy and Texas new life.

McCoy's last pass was inconsequential because regardless of the game clock reading 0:00 or 0:01 I am sure the referees would have given the Longhorns a shot at a winning field goal.

One of these days, karma will find its way back to the Longhorns and when its time to pay up, it won't be pretty.

Three capitol letters are at the root of this... BCS!

Texas Tech Vs Nebraska: Quick Hitters and Things To Watch

Andy P — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 19:14:46 -0400

Outside of the obvious, like watching Ndamukong Suh tomorrow, my eyes will also be on some other interesting match ups that will decide the Texas Tech vs Nebraska game.

The Missouri game highlighted a group of Nebraska defensive backs that played extremely well and made it very difficult on a talented group of Missouri receivers.

This performance was even more admirable considering the elements that they had to over come on every play. I think anyone who watches football understands the old adage that in bad weather games, the wide receivers have a distinct advantage over the defensive backs because they know where the route will take them.

Outside of Prince Amukamara falling down near the end of the first half, a slip that aided Missouri in getting their lone touchdown, the Nebraska defensive backs were amazing in their ability to stay on their feet, and play their man.

The cornerbacks, specifically, of this defense are beginning to play at a stellar level that I haven't seen in the Nebraska defensive backfield for years.

Amukamara, West, Gomes, Dennard, Hagg, and Thorell all seem to very comfortable and confident with their roles on this defense.

These guys are going to be facing a group of wide receivers from Texas Tech that are going to present some unique challenges.

Texas Tech doesn't have a Michael Crabtree type difference maker any longer, but it would be a mistake to underestimate the very talented group of athletes that are working to replace Crabtree's production.

Group, is the keyword here. As Tech doesn't play with the expectation of one guy making all the plays in this offense.

Among the receivers, the Red Raiders have eight players with at least 18 catches through the first half of the season. The top four receivers are Tramain Swindall, Detron Lewis, Alexander Torres, and Lyle Leong, all with a minimum of 24 receptions. Leong leads in touchdown catches with six, followed by Swindall with five touchdown receptions.

Look for the Nebraska corners to play a very aggressive, physical, tight coverage that will challenge and re route the Texas Tech receivers. Doing this could certainly disrupt that all important timing that the Tech offense relies on to make the offense go.

It will no doubt be an entertaining and interesting match up watching how this group of confident, aggressive Nebraska cornerbacks try to match up and slow down the Tech plethora of wide receivers.

Nebraska Offense Needs To Find an Identity

Andy P — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 14:29:16 -0400

Watching the Nebraska vs Missouri game on Thursday night it became obvious that there might be a problem with the direction and philosophy of the Nebraska offense.

Wasn't it forecast to be raining heavily on Thursday in Columbia, Missouri?

Was that just a mirage that we all saw on television or was the rain as bad as it looked? I'll take the later.

Clearly, Shawn Watson and the offensive staff worked very hard on a game plan all week and they implemented that game plan. But, are they so inflexible that they can't adjust if conditions warrant that?

All the rain notwithstanding, Nebraska quarterback Zac Lee was throwing the ball on nearly every down. And not surprisingly, Lee and his receivers had a very difficult time playing pitch and catch.

Isn't discretion some times the better part of valor?

They can talk all they want about being out of sync or not in a good offensive rhythm, but that doesn't explain the offensive game plan when it became clear that they would be playing football in a monsoon.

Offensive Coordinator Shawn Watson has said in the past that he doesn't believe in forming an identity for the offense other than they are going to be "multiple."

But, an offense still needs something that they can hang their hat on. Some aspect of an offensive game plan that they can turn to to get that first down, to sustain drives, to over whelm the defense. Some thing like being able to run the ball at any time and moment.

The last drive of the game, the Nebraska offense comes out in a strong, three and four tight end set and runs the ball down the field for the final touchdown. I thought that the weather would dictate this game plan from the start.

Say what you will about the three touchdown passes in the fourth quarter. Maybe, that will give Lee, his receivers, and the offense in general some spark and help raise their confidence level.

But, I believe that had Watson and the offense started the game the way they finished it with a running game based on strong offensive sets that this game is much different.

There is a reason that during his coaching career, Dr. Tom Osborne, thought that it would be a good idea to have an offense that could run the ball when it wanted and when it needed to.

Those reasons are called wind, rain, snow and ice here in the great Midwest.

Nebraska's Ndamukong Suh: At Least Worthy of Heisman Consideration

Andy P — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 17:09:13 -0400

Here we are past the quarter pole of the college football season, and as of yet, no player has yet to establish themselves as the clear cut leader in Heisman Trophy consideration.

The 2009 race for the Heisman Trophy was supposed to be a transcendent year for the award. For the first time in its history, two former winners were expected to duke it out to see who would join Ohio State's Archie Griffin as the only two time winners.

Throw University of Texas quarterback Colt McCoy into the derby and it was really just expected to be a three horse race.

You can bet that the powers that be at the Downtown Athletic Club of New York were excitedly expecting to have the 2008 winner, Oklahoma's Sam Bradford, and the 2007 winner, Florida's Tim Tebow, along with Texas' McCoy front and center come December in New York City.

Well now. Here is where we find ourselves.

Both Bradford and Tebow have suffered injuries.

For Bradford, even if he makes a return, he has missed way to much time to even make a return trip to the Downtown Athletic Club.

Bradford must also consider his NFL future and the poor play of the Oklahoma offensive line to this point. Would it really be a smart move for him to come back and stand in the pocket, likely not for long, behind that offensive line?

For Tebow, I think we all know the seriousness of concussions and the repercussions for him if he plays and takes another hard blow to the head.

Knowing the physical nature that embodies Tim Tebow, how long will it be before that next blow to his head?

Not long.

Colt McCoy has yet to have the kind of performance that makes viewers and Heisman voters take notice and say, "He is the one, McCoy is my Heisman guy!"

So, Heisman voters, I want to take this opportunity to introduce you to Ndamukong Suh, defensive tackle for the University of Nebraska Cornhuskers.

As it stands right now, Suh is playing at a level in college that I haven't seen from a defensive tackle in quite some time.

I know that Heisman voters love stats so here goes.

Suh currently leads the Huskers in tackles, sacks, tackles for loss, and pass breakups. Yes, a defensive tackle leads in pass breakups. He also picked off his first pass of the year last night and should have had another.

If, Suh keeps this pace up, he will easily improve upon his mighty impressive statistics from one year ago.

But, it is more than just statistics with Ndamukong Suh. It's the way that he has become such a force and impacts games from the interior of the defensive line.

Offensive coordinators are now, no doubt defining their game plans in terms so that No. 93 doesn't destroy them all on his own. That means that on every play, they must account for him and usually with two or more players.

At times, as Missouri did last night, teams will try to block Suh straight up or man on man, but that plan is quickly forgotten after seeing the way Suh controls and manhandles single blockers.

Suh possess all the tools that make it truly difficult for opposing offensive lines to keep him from destroying their offensive plans.

He simply can't be blocked one on one and double teams aren't really proving that much more effective. I watched Suh destroy double team blocks last night on run and pass plays.

More often than not, the Missouri interior offensive lineman were pushed back six or seven yards behind the line and left scrambling, just trying to get in Suh's way before he got to Gabbert or disrupted another running play.

Often, they were unable to even do that much.

This sort of performance is really nothing new though for Suh.

In a year without a clear cut offensive favorite it is time that the Heisman voters take a long and serious look at No. 93 Ndamukong Suh.

Nebraska Cornhuskers Must Seize the Opportunity They Have On Thursday Night

Andy P — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 21:05:57 -0400

Come October 8, the Huskers have a monumental opportunity presented to them in Columbia, Missouri. That Thursday night, with a national ESPN TV audience watching, the Huskers have a chance to begin to build a foundation that will begin to reestablish the Huskers as the preeminent program in the Big 12 North.

At the start of this new millennium something curious began to happen in Lincoln. Cracks were beginning to show in the mortar and bricks of a program that had held strong for 40 plus years. During this long reign the Huskers had without doubt established themselves as a team to be reckoned with.

But, from 2001 to 2007, in just seven short years, all that work over the previous four decades was suddenly gone. Long winning streaks would be no more, no more bowl streak, the nine win season streak was gone, all these gone in just a few short years.

Every team in the Big 12 North has had their hand in aiding the fall of the once mighty Husker dynasty. Colorado, Iowa State, Kansas State, Missouri, and Kansas have all had their moments against the Huskers in recent years. Missouri, Kansas State, and Kansas ended long standing win droughts against the Huskers. Missouri and Kansas State have even ended long streaks of futility in the Huskers lair.

The successes of each of these teams over Nebraska in recent year helped to greatly widen the cracks in the already crumbling façade of the once proud dynasty. In 2007, those cracks opened up and down the once mighty Huskers fell, in an improbable and ugly spectacle. In a short span of six or seven years, the 40 plus years of sweat, blood, guts, tears, and hard work were just gone, undone.

Almost no team in the Big 12 North has had as much success as the Missouri Tigers in recent years. Three straight trips to Columbia have resulted in losses for the Huskers, with all three seeing the Tigers score 41 points on the Blackshirts. Not to mention the ugly blowout in Lincoln last year that saw Missouri end 30 years of futility in Lincoln.

Something needs to change and it needs to begin to change in 2009. Missouri has become way too comfortable and confident in recent years when playing the Cornhuskers. If this trend doesn’t begin to change and change now, I see huge problems for Nebraska in the Big 12 North in 2009 and in upcoming years.

What are the Cornhusker players and coaches going to do to make the Tigers feel a lot less comfortable and confident this year?

First off, it starts with Nebraska getting back to what they used to be and why they were so successful for so many years. In and of itself, that means being the most physical, toughest, nastiest football team on the field each and every game. That means being able to run the ball when they want and when they need to and playing very strong physical defense.

The Huskers need to look at this opportunity before them and grab it by the throat. Go in to Missouri and get a win and people in other parts of the Big 12 North will take notice. This game could be a landmark, watershed game for the Cornhuskers. Bigger even than the game in Blacksburg, VA.

The Cornhuskers' performance in Blacksburg should bolster their confidence going to Columbia. They went to Blacksburg and were clearly the better team for 57 minutes. They went into a truly hostile environment and quieted a hostile crowd.

Win in Columbia over a team that has owned the Huskers since 2003 and a win in Lawrence, KS looks like a real possibility. Win in Columbia and maybe, just maybe, things are starting to turn in favor of the Cornhuskers in the Big 12 North.

A win in Columbia and this group of Cornhusker players begin to rebuild a bit of what has been lost in the previous seven or eight years. Win in Columbia and they send a shock wave through the rest of the Big 12 North that maybe the Cornhuskers are truly on the rebound.

This is a game for the present and for the future. This is a game that Nebraska needs to win unlike any I can recall in recent memory.

Nebraska vs. VT: The Aftermath One Week Later

Andy P — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 12:44:53 -0400

Here I find myself sitting down at the computer about to do something that I have been telling myself and others that I was done with for quite some time.

That is, write an article for Bleacher Report.

Curiously though, it has nothing to do with Bleacher Report.

In the aftermath of the last ninety seconds of the Nebraska vs. Virginia Tech game, this is where I am at.

One week later, and the emotions are no different. The angst, the shock, the dismay, the incredible disappointment. It's all there and all very real. Still very raw.

To be quite honest, this is all very new to me. I am not one that usually hangs on to such emotions over such mundane, mostly nonsensical stuff like the outcome of a football game.

I know there are more important things in life.

Not even the embarrassing losses that Nebraska has suffered over the last 8-9 years stick with me very long. Mostly, I have just been able to take the good with the bad and move on.

Even before Nebraska football fell on the sword of hard times, something struck me long long ago, even during the incredible success that Nebraska experienced during the 90's.

That it wouldn't last forever and that there would likely be difficulties ahead, maybe serious difficulties.

Tom Osborne would retire, coaches would leave the program, and the program would feel some hiccups that fans of my generation have never experienced. So, the fact that the Huskers have struggled in the new millennium hasn't been surprising at all.

I knew that some day the tide would turn and the Huskers might have to accept some of the bad medicine that they dished out for so many years.

And that is okay with me. I am a big boy and can take the bad medicine with all the good that I have experienced.

Why is that?

Because for much of my generation I was witness to a dominant Nebraska football team putting a beat down on a lot of teams.

Even the embarrassing blowout losses that Nebraska has found themselves on the wrong side of aren't that big a deal to me.

My thoughts on it have always been this.

Through the majority of my life as a Nebraska fan, I have witnessed the Huskers dish out the bad medicine. Lately though, the tables have turned a bit and Nebraska has ended up on the other side of the bad losses more than once or twice of late.

Oh well. I am a big boy and can take the bad medicine and move one. It's not that big a deal in the whole scheme of anything.

Invariably, this means that Cornhusker fans would also have to accept some of that bad medicine as well.

It is my hope that most true Husker fans have done so with the class, the dignity, and respect that makes Nebraska fans the best in the country.

But, this one point loss to Virginia Tech has really got me and that is just the way it is and is going to be.

Go Big Red!

Memo to Nebraskas' Blackshirt defense: It's time

Andy P — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 15:54:49 -0400

Time to start playing like the Blackshirts of old. Time to start reminding yourselves, everyone outside this program, and this state what the Blackshirt tradition is all about.

It's time to begin to wipe clean the images and memories of embarrassing performances forged by a former lame duck Big 10 defensive coordinator.

When the Blackshirts were at their best, every player played the game with a sense of passion, of reckless abandon, always willing to put their body on the line for themselves, the team, and the guy next to them.

They played with a sense of purpose, of knowing that each and every game, they would go on the football field and be the most physical, nasty, tough, dominant group of defenders the opposition had faced.

Even when at their best and most dominant they didn't win every battle or game. But, what they did do is enforce their will on opposing offenses in such a way, that whether or not the other team walked, limped, or had to be carried off the field they knew without doubt, that they had just come across the toughest, most physical team they had ever faced.

Unfortunately, I haven't seen this same type of attitude, passion, or relentless pursuit of being that type of defensive team in a long long time.

Not since 1999, and guys like Kyle Vanden Bosch, Steve Warren, Julius Jackson, Mike Brown, and Ralph Brown have I witnessed a defense that played the game so fast and hard that it made one think that their hair must be on fire.

That group just hit and hit and hit and then hit the opposition some more.

Someone, any player on this defense needs to take an active and vocal leadership role.

If that means getting in a teammates grill, or grabbing a face mask to get someones attention than by all means. Do it.

Who is it going to be guys?

Who is going to step up to be remembered as a member of a defense that started to reinvigorate the proud Nebraska Blackshirt tradition of hard nosed, tough, relentless defenders?

There is no better time than the present guys.

That time is now.

Husker QB Zac Lee: Nebraska Vs VT Player Profile

Andy P — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 11:34:34 -0400

Coming into the 2009 season, the Nebraska Cornhuskers assumed that it would take a few games or a good portion of the season for the offense and quarterback Zac Lee to find their comfort zone.

Well, apparently not.

In the season's first two games, Lee is 42 of 57 for six touchdowns and one interception.

Yeah, Yeah, I know. Florida Atlantic and Arkansas State aren't major players from a BCS conference, but Lee didn't complete those passes against air.

Coming into yesterday's game against Arkansas State, Nebraska Offensive Line coach Barney Cotton, said of the Red Wolves, "They have a Big 12 quality defensive line."

There is little doubt about that with defensive end Alex Carrington and his line mates. Carrington will be playing on Sundays and is likely a first-day pick in the 2010 draft, if not a very high pick.

Arkansas State blitzed, the Nebraska offensive line adjusted, and Lee found 13 different receivers and tight ends to get the ball out to.

That's not a typo. Yes, Lee hit 13 different players with passes.

Lee possesses the ability to make all of the throws. He has a legitimate 70-yard arm and displays great touch on deep balls. His throws from the opposite hash mark on 15-yard out routes are darts that have no arch in the throw, giving the defensive back very little, if any, time to react.

I know that many assumed that the Nebraska defense would have to carry a bigger load early in the season, but honestly, the offense has looked better than the defense, in my opinion.

Coming into the Virginia Tech game I expect that the Hokies will get their yards on the ground and Tyrod Taylor will be able to make some plays with his feet and a few in the air.

But, Nebraska may have an X factor in Zac Lee.

Could Lee's passing and the fact that Virginia Tech will be unable to shut down the Nebraska passing game by taking away one or two favorite receivers be enough for the Huskers to get a surprising victory in Blacksburg?

Could there be enough of a disparity in passing ability of Nebraska's Lee to the Hokie's Taylor that the Huskers could just surprise on Sept. 19?

Cornhusker fans are hoping that that turns out to be just the case.

Nebraska-Arkansas St: Player to Watch Wolves QB Corey Leonard

Andy P — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 15:37:11 -0400

Tomorrow, the Red Wolves of Arkansas State will be paying a visit to Lincolns' Memorial Stadium to take on the Nebraska Cornhuskers.

This team will not be easily intimidated by the atmosphere in Lincoln.

In 2007, the Red Wolves went into Austin and played the Longhorns very tough in losing 21-13.

Last year, in their matchup with Alabama, they were down only 14 points in the second half before losing 35-0.

Their very first game in 2008, the Red Wolves made the trip to Kyle Field in College Station, Texas and walked away with a 4 point victory over the Aggies of A & M.

Yes, I know, A & M is down a bit, but the Red Wolves still beat a team with Big 12 players in their own house.

The Red Wolves offense is led by senior quarterback Corey Leonard. Leonard is a very physical, dual-threat presence with the ability to beat teams with his running and throwing.

In 2008, Leonard broke his own school record for total offense with 2,863 yards and tied his own school record with 16 touchdown passes and a career high of 2,347 yards.

As the Red Wolves offense gets inside the twenty-yard line of the defense, they will often lean heavily on the running ability of Leonard to put the ball in the end zone. At over 6' and 210 lbs he has the physical presence, strength, and size to get it done running the football.

An interesting anecdote to the running of Leonard is that as he goes running the ball his passing numbers seem to follow. The more success he has on the ground, the more success he seems to have in getting the ball to his wide receivers.

At times though, through the last few years, the Red Wolves offensive line has had the propensity for giving up sacks. This could be something to really watch tomorrow, as this unit is fairly young and inexperienced and will be going against a very strong, athletic, disruptive group of defensive linemen for the Cornhuskers.

Quick Hitters: Husker's D Line Vs Ark. St. O Line

Andy P — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 14:23:58 -0400

Like many Husker fans, I was pleased with the win over FAU, but to a large degree, I was left with some lingering questions about the 2009 Blackshirt defense.

Most pressing to me is, "Where was the pressure on the quarterback during the Florida Atlantic game?"

No quarterback sacks, no hurries and frankly it looked very much to me as if the Florida Atlantic offensive line was physically superior to the Nebraska defensive line.

I expected the Husker defensive line to re-establish the line of scrimmage two yards in the FAU backfield. That didn't happen and often it looked like our guys were stymied completely at the point of attack.

Sure, individually a few of the guys made some plays, but as a whole, this group failed as a unit to cause the disruption and create the havoc that great defensive line groups do.

On Sept. 12, they will be facing an Arkansas State team that will be playing without four players in the offensive line who saw regular playing time in 2008.

Much of the offensive line playing time available in 2009 is going to be filled by red shirt freshmen and players that are just getting their first taste of regular playing time.

Knowing that, there is no reason the Nebraska defensive line shouldn't be able to dominate this group.

The Red Wolves do run some elements of the spread passing game, so getting sacks will probably be difficult.

I will be looking to see a defensive line that is dominant against the run, that stuffs plays for no gain and makes plays behind the line in the running game.

The Red Wolves will try to use the Nebraska line's aggressive nature against them by calling screens and draw plays. Will the Nebraska defensive line diagnose and stop these screens and draws before the running back gets down field?

I expect to see the defensive line force the quarterback into quick decisions that disrupt the natural flow of the offense. Do this, and they will disrupt the timing routes that make the spread offense very dangerous.

These are just a few of the things I will be watching for during the game on Saturday.

Quick Hitters and Don't Miss This: Ark. St. Vs. Nebraska

Andy P — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 13:00:34 -0400

Something to watch this Saturday as the Huskers take on Arkansas State will be the play of the Red Wolves defense, especially the defensive line.

In 2008, the Red Wolves had the best defense in the Sun Belt Conference.

Up front, they will be led by defensive end Alex Carrington who was the conference defensive player of the year in 2008.

In addition to Carrington this defensive line returns three of its top four players. An issue though, is that the players after this initial group are true freshmen or red-shirt freshmen with no game experience.

Hopefully, Nebraska will be at full strength with the return of guard Keith Williams.

Will Nebraska be able to out muscle this group and establish dominance early or might we see a team getting caught looking ahead to the game with Virginia Tech on Sept. 19?

Just like the Husker players can't get caught looking ahead, the same goes for fans.

This Arkansas State team can be dangerous. They run a spread offense and have some players that can make plays and a defense that may make things difficult at times for the Huskers.

Quick Hitters and Don't Miss This: Huskers Have a Big Back

Andy P — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 18:14:52 -0400

In the aftermath of the dismissal of former Nebraska running back Quentin Castille, fans and pundits are both left to wonder, "Who will take Castille's place in short yardage and possible goal line situations?"

Castille was the hammer and the perfect complement to the slash and dash style of Nebraska running back Roy Helu Jr.

Just ask the Clemson defense.

Castille had the size to pound defenses but also possess a burst of speed uncommon for a man of his size.

It's always nice to have that big 225 lb plus hammer to run up into the middle of defenses to pick up short yardage. But, as the coaches have said this week, it doesn't matter if the back runs over, around or through the defense.

Quite often, and any Nebraska fan has seen this happen, in short yardage, if the running back can make the first defender miss, it can often turn into a very large gain or a long touchdown run.

With Castille gone now, does Nebraska have a very large running back on its roster right now that may be utilized in short yardage situations?

Yes.

His name is Ndamukong Suh.

Remember, Suh did line up at the fullback spot on a few occasions last year. He even caught a touchdown pass as a fullback.

Does anyone think that it would be too much of a stretch that Shawn Watson may give #93 a shot at carrying the pigskin a time or two?

I don't. And I wouldn't be surprised if they haven't already given "Big Suh" a couple hand offs in practice to see if he can hang on to the ball.

If he demonstrates in practice that he can take a handoff cleanly and not fumble, I say give him a shot.

Imagine this formation on a third and short.

Nebraska goes to a heavy set of three tight ends, lines up a fullback and Suh at running back.

Clearly, Suh isn't going to break a defender down at the line of scrimmage and scamper for a long touchdown. What he will do is run it up in there behind an offensive line that appears very strong in the middle with center Jacob Hickman, and Keith Williams, Ricky Henry and Andy Christensen sharing time at the guard spots.

I don't know of any defense that would like to see that train wreck coming at them.

I know that Helu Jr, Burkhead and others will likely get shots at the short yardage situations and goal-line, but it is just a thought.

This is something to keep an eye on this year when Nebraska needs a big conversion or touchdown in short yardage.

Quick Hitters and Don't Miss This: FAU Vs Nebraska

Andy P — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 13:38:18 -0400

Here we are, a little more than a week before the start of the 2009 season for the Nebraska Cornhuskers football team.

With that, Bo Pelini, his coaching staff, and the Husker players have wrapped up fall camp and officially begin game week preparations.

In the same respect, it is time that I start my game week preparations.

Each week, look for a series of articles from me leading to the game entitled, "Quick Hitters and Don't Miss This."

I will pick out a player or players, an area of interest or concern, a team unit, from either team, that might have a serious implication on outcome of the game.

Just something to watch very closely during the game.

Often, I will try to stay away from the outright obvious, but sometimes the obvious just can't be ignored.

This week, it is the performance of the Nebraska secondary.

The Nebraska secondary will be tested by Florida Atlantic and Rusty Smith.

Don't take Smith lightly, as there is a reason he considered to be one of the top 10 or top 15 quarterbacks that will be available in the 2010 NFL draft.

Smith has all the measurables that NFL teams want in quarterbacks. He is 6'5", 235-lbs. has a great arm, and is mobile enough that he can make plays out of the pocket.

Larry Asante, Ricky Thenarse, and Matt O'Hanlon all return at the two safety positions. Their position coach, Marvin Sanders has said that these three guys are interchangeable at either of the safety positions.

Asante started every game last year and O'Hanlon and Thenarse split starts at the free safety position in 2008.

At corner Prince Amukamara returns at one side, while Eric Hagg and Lance Thorell have both played extensively in the nickel and dime packages.

Hagg seems to be a star in waiting and ready for an impressive season.

This is an experienced group, nearly seven of the top eight players are returning from 2008. The only player lost from 2008 with experience was corner Armando Murillo

So, experience isn't a problem, but execution and performance has been at times for this group.

Are we going to continue to see the mental lapses, coverage breakdowns and lack of communication that resulted in too many big pass plays last year?

Will these guys start to play with more confidence? Will they start to attack and fight for the ball when it is coming their way?

By playing with confidence, I mean playing within the responsibilities of the defense yet, going after the ball when the chance comes?

This unit of the Nebraska defense needs to start stripping balls from receivers, picking off passes, causing some fumbles, and create turnovers on a regular basis.

Too often in 2008, they seemed content and comfortable to just be in the chase position, never in position to attack the receiver and the ball.

That must change for this Nebraska defense and the team as a whole to truly improve in 2009.

After another year of coaching under this staff, I think it is expected that these players should start to produce and make big plays.

I will be looking for at minimum two turnovers caused by this group whether that is a ball stripped out, an interception, or a fumble caused by a jarring tackle.

Feel free to tell me what you will be watching, what your thoughts are.

Nebraska Cornhuskers Season Preview: Week 11 Vs Kansas St.

Andy P — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 15:21:52 -0400

On November 21, 2009 Bo Pelini and Kansas State new/old head coach Bill Snyder will have a chance to renew acquaintances back in Lincoln.

Pelini and Snyder both say that the 2003 coup d'etat is water under the bridge and I believe that it probably is.

But, we will see.

Unfortunately, for Snyder he will not be bringing a KSU team to Lincoln with anything close to the talent level of his 2003 unit.

No El Roberson, long gone is Darren Sproles.

The second Bill Snyder era at Kansas State is first left to find a replacement for record setting quarterback Josh Freeman.

The likely replacement is Carson Coffman, brother of Missouri's All-American tight end Chase Coffman, and son of Paul, a former NFL player of 11 years.

Coffman did have a great deal of success in high school, guiding his team to two state championships.

The diminutive Brandon Banks returns to give Coffman an explosive down the field threat at the wide receiver position. Banks not only is a real threat at the wide receiver position, he also uses his stature and speed on kickoff returns to help get the KSU offense in good field position.

Another notable player that returns to help Coffman and Kansas State move the football is tight end Jeron Mastrud, with 38 receptions in 2008 for 435 yards.

Running back Keithen Valentine, a player that was in Princes' dog house for whatever reason, is looking forward at a chance to rejuvenate his career with Snyder.

In the offensive line, their are a few question marks, but the leader of this group is likely to be senior left tackle Nick Stringer.

Honestly, though, as many questions as there are about the Kansas State offense, I think there are many more questions and problems on the Kansas State defense.

At times, under Prince, the Wildcat defenders seemed like they were just going through the motions. They didn't seem to have an identity on defense to hang their hat on.

They weren't great at any one facet of playing defense and really they were pretty bad.

I have to assume that, under Snyder, these guys will maximize their ability and their effort on every play or Snyder will not have them on his team. Hard nosed, tough defenses were a trademark of Snyder teams at KSU during his first tenure and I expect no different in 2009.

A couple players to watch are defensive tackle Jeffrey Fitzgerald, a transfer from Virginia, and defensive end Brandon Harold. Harold played very well last year when he did get playing time as a freshman.

Kansas State does return a couple starting linebackers in Ulla Pomele and Alex Hrebec.

In the secondary they return Joshua Moore who led the Big 12 in pass break ups last year.

Kansas State does have some players with talent on defense, it just appears to me that they just were not motivated last year or coached very well.

I see this game going one of two ways, a 25 + point win by Nebraska which sees Nebraska start fast and take early control or a very hard fought physical game that may come down to the fourth quarter.

I think this Kansas State team will respond to Snyder's coaching, especially on the defensive side of the ball and they will play very well.

In the end though, I think Nebraska just has quite a bit more depth, a few more talented athletes and the Nebraska running game and defense take control in the fourth quarter.

My pick. Nebraska 28

Kansas St 17

Nebraska Cornhuskers Season Preview: Week 10 vs Kansas

Andy P — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 18:13:53 -0400

After the tilt with Oklahoma in Lincoln on November 7, the Cornhuskers make the journey down to Lawrence, Kansas to face the Jayhawks.

The game with Kansas will mark the end of a very tough three-game stretch that starts with a trip down to Waco, TX to face a dangerous group of Baylor Bears with Robert Griffin, Joe Pawelek, and Jordan Lake and has the Sooners visiting Lincoln in between.

Ouch!

Without question the Jayhawks are led by their quarterback, Todd Reesing. Reesing will likely end his career holding most, if not all, of KU records for the quarterback position.

Reesing and Kansas will benefit considerably from the return of a very talented tandem of wide receivers in Dezmon Briscoe and Kerry Meier.

Briscoe is a big play threat in the passing game that late last year provided a huge boost to the KU return game when he averaged nearly 28 yards per return. Meier is a great route runner with exceptional hands, a great safety valve for Reesing if you will.

The Kansas passing game also returns Jonathan Wilson who caught 43 passes in 2008.

Considering the amount of experience returning at quarterback and wide receiver, Kansas will be able to play pitch and catch.

Early in 2008, Kansas was struggling to find a running game, until Jake Sharp emerged and accounted for 860 yards and 12 touchdowns. Jake Sharp is back in 2009 and this offense should be the best offense in the Big 12 North.

On defense Kansas is looking to replace three outstanding linebackers that were the heart and soul of the defense for several years.

On the defensive front, Kansas will be looking to guys like tackle Caleb Blakesley and end Jake Laptad.

I think considering the number of very talented and experienced athletes that Kansas has coming back on offense, that the Blackshirts will have a difficult task ahead of them trying to corral Reesing and his offensive mates.

There are four or five toss up games on Nebraska's 2009 schedule and this is one of them.

I think the loss of Quentin Castille is going to cost Nebraska a game or two this year and could conceivably keep them from representing the North in the Big 12 title game.

It can't be understated or ignored how much losing a big, elusive, and fast athlete like Castille will hurt the Nebraska team. Athletes at 235 lbs with his speed pose serious problems for any defense.

Regardless of how Burkhead or anyone else steps up to replace that, they don't bring what "Q" did to the offense. That is a physical, powerful, and fast presence.

He will be missed.

I think on offense Nebraska will try to expose the underbelly of KU's defense, the trio of new linebackers, with the short to medium range passing game.

I am sure they will be tested against the run too. But, with the tight end athletes that will be getting playing time I think they will show up big against KU.

Ultimately, though, I think this is a game that Nebraska loses due to a home crowd for Kansas and the Kansas athletes returning on offense with experience.

My pick: Kansas 28-Nebraska 27

Nebraska Running Back Quentin Castille Dismissed From The Team

Andy P — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 14:59:45 -0400

In an unbelievable turn of events in Lincoln, Bo Pelini has dismissed running back Quentin Castille from the team for a violation of team rules.

Pelini wouldn't elaborate on the infraction, but stated it was, "a clear violation of team rules."

This is truly a big blow to the Cornhuskers' running game and can't be understated.

Castille was coming off an outstanding performance in the Gator Bowl and was reportedly in even better shape this spring and fall.

Now, Nebraska must look to find a backup for starter Roy Helu.

Freshman running back Rex Burkhead from Texas appears to be the front runner for the job behind Helu, as he has been impressive in fall camp.

This should send a clear message to anyone, any athlete, that wants to play for Nebraska and Pelini.

No matter the star power, team rules apply to everyone and must be followed.

Nebraska Cornhuskers' Season Preview: Week 9 Vs Oklahoma

Andy P — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 16:40:28 -0400

Nov. 7 is a red letter day on the Nebraska schedule, a day that Cornhusker fans and players alike have marked on their calendars

What is this red letter day, and why does it have the attention of so many?

The Oklahoma Sooners and the Sooner Schooner are paying a visit to Lincoln to face the Nebraska Cornhuskers.

For us old-schoolers, this game won't remind us of any classic Nebraska Vs Oklahoma games.

No, we won't see Barry Switzer roaming the sidelines, laughing it up and schmoozing with his players. Long gone is the wishbone offense, made so dangerous and effective by J.C. Watts, Billy Simms, and Jamelle Holiway.

The quiet confidence of Tom Osborne and the power I option attack with Gill, Frazier, Rozier, I.M. Hipp, Phillips, Frost, Green, and Co. That is gone too.

As I reminisce for a spell about the old Nebraska fullbacks, I miss the days of Schlessinger, Rathman, and the Mackovicka brothers with the busted face masks, the gnarly scratched up, gouged helmets and the bloody noses, both their own and ones given.

I miss watching those guys burst through the open gap on a search and destroy mission for the nearest linebacker.

Then boom!

The fullback finds his target and a great Nebraska running back is slashing and dashing his way into the second and third levels of the defense.

Oh well, those days are gone now and we are now left with Big 12 offenses, even Nebraska, spreading offensive players out all over the field trying to get favorable one-on-one matchups against the defense.

On to the game at hand.

Nebraska defense Vs the Oklahoma offense

In 2008 Oklahoma's offense was nearly unstoppable, at least that is, in the Big 12. From that squad the Sooners have to replace four of five starters in the offensive line, plus two of Bradford's favorite targets, Juaquin Iglesias and Manuel Johnson.

So, what do they have on offense?

DeMarco Murray and Chris Brown give Oklahoma an explosive two-headed monster at the running back position.

The biggest X-factor outside of Bradford returning, is the return of tight end Jermaine Gresham.

Gresham will be a matchup nightmare for defensive coordinators at the next level, let alone in the Big 12.

Gresham torched Nebraska last year, and unfortunately for the Huskers, nearly the same group of linebackers and safeties that he ran away from in 2008 are back in 2009.

Bad news!!

You can be sure that Oklahoma's offensive coordinator will get Gresham 10-12 opportunities against this Nebraska defense.

Nebraska might have a wild card though.

Although young, Sean Fisher, a highly sought after 6'6", 235-pound redshirt freshman strong side linebacker out of Omaha's Millard North High School with a 4.5 or better 40-yard dash. Oklahoma defensive coordinator Brent Venables offered him a scholarship but he chose to follow in his dad's footsteps and play at Nebraska.

Fisher may have the size and speed to run with Gresham, but unfortunately, and I am sure Oklahoma's offensive coordinator will know this going in, Fisher will likely leave the field in obvious passing situations or in four wide receiver sets.

Starting the season, the Oklahoma offensive line might be a bit green, but eight weeks later when they play Nebraska, I have to assume they will be playing at a high level.

Oklahoma's offensive line will be facing what is very likely the strongest, deepest, and most athletic unit on the Cornhuskers' team.

The Nebraska defensive line is led by Suh, Allan, Turner, and Co.

Will this group be able to make a difference in the outcome for Nebraska? Could these guys get enough pressure and wreak enough havoc to create turnovers and missed opportunities for the Sooners' offense?

Well, even if Suh, Allan, Turner, and Co. could overwhelm the Sooners' offensive line, I think there will be some other outside factors and influences that don't allow this to happen.

Reference my article of three weeks ago, "Big 12 Office: Offensive linemen holding is ignored by Big 12 referees!"

Sam Bradford and Colt McCoy are the proverbial "Golden Boys" of the Big 12. They are the "golden eggs" of the conference, the " bell cow" if you will.

Bradford and McCoy "bring home the bacon" for the Big 12.

However you want to put it, they butter the bread of the Big 12 and they will be protected.

What does this mean?

I think you know.

You can be sure that the Big 12 powers that be will make sure to protect these two and make sure they are in the Heisman or "Hypeman" race. They will both be protected.

That means their offensive lines will be allowed to grapple with, mug, and have their way with opposing defensive lines. Holding flags be damned!

Even with Oklahoma breaking in four new starters in the offensive line and having to replace a couple receivers, which I am sure they can find, I don't like the matchup of OU's offense on the NU defense.

Between Murray and Brown, Bradford being protected by the offensive line that will be allowed to mug and hold all day long, and Gresham, it just doesn't look good on paper for the Nebraska defense.

I have to give a sizeable advantage to the Oklahoma offense over the Nebraska defense.

Nebraska offense vs the Oklahoma defense

Although, in 2008, the Oklahoma defense improved through the year, they weren't nearly as dominant on that side of the ball as in previous years under Bob Stoops.

It all starts up front for the Sooners on defense, with defensive tackle Gerald McCoy and end Auston English. In fact, the Sooners return the entire front seven of their starting defense in 2009.

At the second level of the defense they have record setting linebacker Travis Lewis.

The secondary for Oklahoma had its ups and downs last year and will be hurt by the departure of safety Nic Harris.

Nebraska is going to have to be able to run the ball efficiently and effectively with Helu and Castille to set up the passing game. I look for Shawn Watson and the Nebraska offensive staff to try to control this game by running some old school power football at the Sooner defense.

Watson will have Zac Lee take some shots down field at times, trying to exploit what could be a vulnerable secondary for the Sooners. Look for guys like Niles Paul, Marcus Mendoza, Brandon Kinnie, Tim Marlowe, and others to get some shots at big passes down the field.

But, it all starts up front. If Nebraska struggles to run the ball efficiently it could be a really long day.

Let us not forget the Nebraska tight ends. They are a very good group of athletes that may be able to help the Huskers in both the run game and the passing game. I look for some big catches from McNeil, Young, Cotton, and company.

I expect that the Oklahoma defense will be better than they were last year, but I also expect that Shawn Watson will devise a game plan that gives Nebraska the best shot to make some plays against what are some great Sooner athletes.

In the end though, I have to go with what is likely a very good Sooner defense over the Nebraska offense. Not in a landslide though. I expect the Nebraska offense will make plays, but the Sooners' defense will make a few more to keep the Huskers from scoring any more than, say, about 21 points.

Nebraska special teams Vs Oklahoma special teams

I noticed something last year during the Nebraska Vs Oklahoma game in Norman. The Oklahoma special teams' players, especially on kickoff coverage units, were so very fast at covering kicks and returning kicks.

Nebraska was at a decided speed disadvantage on both units. I hate to say that, but it is what it is.

Specials teams is where speed and depth really show itself because typically special teams players are the reserves, the younger players that aren't playing full time roles on offense or defense. Oklahoma had guys on special teams that were just flying down the field.

Well, hopefully some of Nebraska's 2008 class of redshirts, who are mainly defensive players with speed and athleticism, can start to bridge this speed gap a bit.

Unfortunately, one class of redshirts isn't enough to overcome the speed difference that I saw last year between Oklahoma and Nebraska.

I will give Nebraska an advantage in the kicking game with Adi Kunalic kicking off and Alex Herenry booting field goals, but overall, the special teams advantage has to go to Oklahoma in 2009.

I expect a great atmosphere, a revved up crowd that should inspire the Cornhuskers to play very well, and I think they will. They are just out gunned right now.

I expect a very hard fought game, one of those games that is actually closer than the final score might indicate.

Oklahoma gets a late touchdown to widen the margin in what is a one touchdown game.

Oklahoma 35

Nebraska 21

Nebraska Cornhuskers Season Preview: Week 8 Vs Baylor

Andy P — Sat, 15 Aug 2009 17:45:56 -0400

On October 31, the Cornhuskers head south to the Lone Star state to face the Baylor Bears.

Is it going to be a Halloween nightmare that Husker players and the faithful Big Red followers remember as one filled with angry, aggressive and marauding Bears?

Or, can the Cornhuskers keep their focus on the task at hand and tame the wild beasts from Baylor?

Unlike Baylor teams of the past, this game can't be chalked up as an automatic "W" for the Cornhuskers. I see this as a huge trap game for the Cornhuskers. Why? Because they are going on the road to face a team that returns nine starters on offense and defense the week prior to Oklahoma coming to Lincoln.

There is clearly a transformation going on at Baylor and it starts with Head Coach Art Briles. These Bears are not the Bears of the early days of the Big 12.

They are talented and have some players. What they may not have that some other teams do is established and experienced depth behind those front line players.

No, they aren't likely to dominate anyone. But, given the right circumstance, like being at home and catching an opponent napping they could be a dangerous foe.

Their isn't a returning starter more important to this team than quarterback Robert Griffin. He is the sort of fantastic and talented athlete that gives Defensive Coordinators week long headaches leading up to the game.

How is it best to contain this kid?

He proved last year that he can throw the ball from the pocket very efficiently and with great accuracy. So, as a defensive coordinator do you have your defensive line rush him with ideas of staying in their lanes and keeping him in the pocket?

Or, do you play with fire, let the ends crash in trying to pressure him, and hope that he doesn't break containment? That is a scary thought.

Because Griffin is a world class hurdler who will out run just about any defender to the end zone.

I think it has got to be a defensive package that mixes up lots of different looks for Griffin to look at. Can't let him get comfortable with knowing what he will be facing every down.

Mix up zone and man coverage, rush him from different angles, keep him guessing.

I think Nebraska's linebacker play may be very important this game. Can the young guys who are likely to play fill gaps and run down Griffin when he escapes the rush?

The Bears defense has at least two players that would start at any other Big 12 school. The entire linebacker corp returns and they are led by MLB Joe Pawelek. Behind the linebackers they have a tremendous safety in Jordan Lake.

Both of these guys were All Big 12 conference selections last year and rightly so. They are very physical and active and lead a strong defense for the Bears.

Nebraska defense Vs the Baylor offense

I will be watching the trenches closely in this match up. I know, I know. That is always where games are won and lost. But, Nebraska will be throwing a strong, athletic group of experienced defensive lineman at a Baylor offensive line that is replacing two outstanding offensive tackles, one, Jason Smith that was taken very high in the NFL draft.

If they can get consistent pressure with four guys and keep Griffin from busting containment too often I think they will go along way toward corraling the Bears offense.

If they get this pressure, it should help in stopping or at least corralling both phases of the Bears offense. Although, I do see Griffin being able to make enough plays to at least keep the game close into the late second half maybe even the entire game.

Slight advantage to the Nebraska defense.

Nebraska offense Vs the Baylor defense

This match up could prove to be a very very physical and brutal match of a physical running game and a physical defense.

The Bears are very strong at the point of attack and up the middle with Pawelek and Lake. Look for Watson to give the Bears a healthy dose of Helu and Castille, in addition to opening up the speed packages with multiple wide receiver formations, multiple sets to test the Bears defense on the outside and deep down the field.

Nebraska has some speed at wide receiver now and in a game like this it may be best for them to go over the top of those great players that patrol the middle of the field for the Bears.

Between the power running of Helu and Castille, and Zac Lee running some spread option, and hitting some wide receivers deep on go routes and deep patterns I think they have just enough to beat the Bears.

Slight edge to the Cornhusker offense.

Nebraska special teams Vs Baylor special teams

Nebraska's special teams unit this year will see a huge influx of speed and talent from last year's class of red shirts and younger players.

Add placekicker Alex Henery to the mix and I think they have a decided advantage over the Bears in the special teams department. An advantage that I think will decide the game in the Cornhusker's favor.

Ultimately, though I think this game could come down to which team is deeper and has more play makers on offense and defense.

I see Nebraska winning a close, exciting game on a late Alex Henery field goal.

Nebraska 30

Baylor 28

Nebraska QB Kody Spano Injures Knee Again

Andy P — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 20:06:07 -0400

Well, it was just a few short days ago that I extorted the incredible healing powers of Nebraska quarterback Kody Spano's knee?

My, my, my how fast things have changed.

Today, Nebraska coach Bo Pelini confirmed after Wednesday's practice that Spano did tear the ACL in his left knee again.

This will seriously affect the Nebraska offense in a multitude of ways.

One of which, and most obvious is that it thins an already inexperienced group of quarterbacks.

And two, it may reign in just how many quarterback running plays, i.e. zone read options, straight options, Shawn Watson may call for likely first year starter Zac Lee to run the offense.

It also puts the red shirt of much heralded 5 star quarterback recruit Cody Green in serious jeopardy.

Keep your head up Kody Spano.

Do the work to get back and we look forward to seeing you compete in 2010.

Nebraska Cornhuskers' Season Preview: Week 7 Vs Iowa St

Andy P — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 19:43:29 -0400

On Oct. 24 the Iowa State Cyclones will be blowing their way through Lincoln, NE to face the Nebraska Cornhuskers.

Will the Cyclones leave the Huskers of Nebraska tossed about and tattered in a path of destruction that leads from Lincoln's Memorial Stadium all the way back to Ames?

In 2009?

Doubtful.

If it were to happen, it would likely go down as one of the biggest upsets of the year.

Iowa St has really suffered in the days since the Dan McCarney era ended. And although the McCarney era ended with a couple very tough end of season losses, where wins would have put the Cyclones in the Big 12 title game, he accomplished what so many struggled to do before.

He built ISU into a pretty decent program for a few years.

Smaller budget programs such as Iowa State really need the consistency in coaching that McCarney brought to the program.

Going on three coaches in four years will hurt any program, especially one that doesn't have the financial resources of some of its big brother conference brethren.

In the years since McCarney's firing things have taken a turn for the worse in Ames, and they are now struggling to stay out of the Big 12's cellar.

New Iowa State coach, and Ankeny, Iowa native, Paul Rhoads will likely lean very heavily on returning starting quarterback Austen Arnaud.

Arnaud is a very gifted and talented dual threat quarterback that should pose a challenge to Big 12 defenses. Word is that a spread offense will be installed in Ames.

Seniors Marquis Hamilton and Houston Jones return to lead a trio of second year receivers.

Leonard Johnson, Lonzie Range, Sedrick Johnson, and Jason Carlson are young wide receivers that will be looking to make their first marks on the program.

They also benefit from the return of leading rusher Alexander Robinson.

Rhoads is a defensive coach and has coached some great defenses at Pittsburgh and Auburn most recently.

The Iowa State defense will be lead by linebacker Jesse Smith, a former walk-on who has started 24 straight games.

Rhoads will get these guys to play hard and with passion. Yet the question remains, do they have the horses to stop, or at least slow down, the high flying offenses of the Big 12?

The Nebraska game plan I believe, and this may be the game plan through much of 2009, will rely heavily on an experienced line and two very good running backs to test the Iowa State defensive front.

Mix in some of Zac Lee's passing and testing the Iowa State secondary deep and Lee should have a nice day throwing the pigskin. I see Helu and Castille getting their yards and opening up the passing game for Lee and Nebraska's fast corp of receivers.

Defensively, I think Nebraska will have a pretty solid game against Arnuad and his Cyclone offensive teammates, but Iowa State will get in the end zone a time or two.

Expecting shutouts or low scoring games these days in an era of athletes all over the field is just too much.

In the end, Nebraska is just way deeper and more talented on both sides of the ball and wins going away.

Prediction

Nebraska 42

Iowa St 17

Nebraska Cornhuskers Season Preview: Week 6 Vs Texas Tech

Andy P — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 14:04:17 -0400

On October 17, the Texas Tech Red Raiders will be riding into Lincoln hoping to continue their recent trend of success against the Cornhuskers.

Will it continue?

We shall see.

The Red Raiders begin the 2009 season needing to replace one of the more deadly quarterback to wide receiver combinations in college football history.

Sorry, Tech fans, but no more Harrell to Crabtree in 2009.

Taylor Potts, a 6'5" junior looks to be the heir apparent in Lubbock, although Seth Doege could be a factor. Due to two knee injurres Doege hasn't played in a game of football since his sophomore year of high school in 2005.

During Mike Leachs' tenure at Texas Tech it has seemed that even when Tech has had to break in a new quarterback that there hasn't been much or any drop off in production from year to year. Should any be expected this year?

Probably not.

The Red Raiders will have to look to the entire receiving crew to help replace the production of Crabtree. Detron Lewis is an experienced guy that will lead the way for a group that includes Edward Britton, Lyle Leong and 6'3" Tramain Swindall.

Last year the Red Raiders found a very good running back in Baron Batch and he should help to take some of the pressure off of Potts at least early in the season.

The Red Raiders look to be dangerous on offense again in 2009 with Batch, Lewis and a quarterback that should be able to get the ball out to his wide receivers.

On defense in 2008, the Red Raiders did give up some yards and points, but they could create negative plays for the offense at times.

They did post 34 sacks on defense last year and do return their three starting linebackers, but I still think it will be more of the same on defense with tech.

They will give up yards and points.

But, can they make enough plays to create more opportunities for that offense to get back on the field.

Even though, Nebraska did lose to Tech last year they were able to show other teams a solid game plan for beating the Red Raiders.

It's really pretty simple football.

Use your own offense to go on time consuming drives and keep that other offense on the sidelines.

The old adage of, "Sometimes the best defense is a good offense" certainly applies when playing Texas Tech these days.

I expect the same approach from the Cornhuskers this year.

I look for a solid dose of the running game behind Nebraska's solid and experienced line. Roy Helu and Quentin Castille will get plenty of carries and they will get their yards.

Mix in the short passing game and read options for Lee, just to keep the Tech defense honest and I think the Nebraska offense will be very productive.

I expect a measure of revenge for the Cornhuskers against the Red Raiders this year.

It will be tough, but I think the Blackshirts will make just enough plays to stop Tech on a couple of occasions and the Cornhusker offense will grind out a ten point win late.

My pick.

Nebraska 38

Texas Tech 28

Kody Spano: Nebraska's Bionic Man Quarterback

Andy P — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 23:01:02 -0400

Let's turn the calendar back just a few short months.

Out of Lincoln came troubling news that a red shirt freshman quarterback had suffered a "serious knee injury."

Kody Spano, a red shirt from Plainview, TX would be "out indefinitely."

In order to conduct spring practice in the manner that they needed to, Nebraska coaches were forced to find some bodies to play quarterback.

Off the coaches went in their search, where they found former Ohio State quarterback recruit and current Nebraska linebacker LaTravis Washington. For fifteen spring practices, Offensive Coordinator Shawn Watson force fed the offense to Washington.

A few weeks after starting to practice with the offense and learn the playbook, during the spring game of 2009, Washington showed off incredible arm strength, nice accuracy for that kind of velocity, and the ability to run. All in all, Washington shined brilliantly.

They found quite a bit more than just a "body" to fill the depth chart and take practice repetitions.

Maybe, it's something about the number 15 jersey that Washington wears. Or the fact that Washington is from the same Florida town as that "other" number 15.

Fate and karma.

Which brings us back to Spano and his knee. Anyone that hears "serious knee injury" and "out indefinitely" immediately thinks reconstructive surgery and out of action for an entire year.

Not only this, it seriously thinned the quarterback crew at Nebraska, and put heralded five star quarterback recruit Cody Green's presumed redshirt year in very serious jeopardy.

Fast forward to the present time and amazingly Bo Pelini stated this week that Kody Spano has fully recovered from the serious knee injury, and will be 100 percent going into fall practice.

With Washington firmly a quarterback, the Nebraska quarterback depth chart appears safe and barring a series of seriously bad and unlucky circumstances Cody Green is very very unlikely to see action in the 2009 season.

The complete ramifications of Kody Spanos quick healing knee may not be felt totally until, say about 2012, 2013.

Important Questions to Be Answered for Nebraska Football in 2009

Andy P — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 15:02:20 -0400

Well Nebraska fans, it's almost that time...

As another summer winds down, the calendar turns toward fall, with the crisp mornings, the beautiful autumn colors, and the cool breezes. But, something else marks the seasonal changes here in our great state.

It is about time to open another chapter and rekindle that passion, that excitement, and that energy that we all feel, for our states' son's, the University of Nebraska Cornhusker's football team.

Opening that new chapter comes with lots of questions.

Will the team continue to improve under Bo Pelini?

Will some players step up at key positons that lost major contributors?

Those are just a couple of the question marks.

I will pose a few here and then I want to know what you will be watching very closely in 2009.

1. What sort of performance can be expected out of likely first time starting quarterback Zac Lee?

Lee comes into the 2009 season having completed two passes as a Cornhusker quarterback, while not having played a meaningful down of college football since the 2006 season while at San Francisco City College.

Lee does possess a very strong right arm and the ability to make plays with his feet. By all appearances Lee might possess the best set of physical tools to play quarterback at Nebraska since before the Bill Callahan era.

Does he have the physical and mental toughness to withstand being hammered by VT's tough nasty defense? To keep getting up quickly, time after time and smiling at the surprised defender while saying, "Nice tackle." Alas, former Cornhusker quarterback Scott Frost.

Does he have a short memory to forget the bad plays and move on to the next one?

Going all the way back to Dave Humm in 1974 Nebraska does possess a history of first-time, first-year starting quarterbacks playing very well and exceeding everyone's expectations, except probably their own.

Gerry Gdowski in 1989 setting a passing efficiency mark for Cornhusker quarterbacks that still stands to this day with 19 touchdown passes to just two interceptions.

Keithen McCant in 1991 leading the Cornhuskers to a tie for the Big 8 title.

And we can't forget watching Brook Berringer RIP in 1994 coming in for an injured Tommie Frazier and helping lead the Cornhuskers to an undefeated season and Tom Osborne's first of three National Championships before he retired at the end of the 1997 season.

Can we or should we expect the same out of Zac Lee or whomever comes out of fall camp as the No. 1 quarterback?

2. How badly will Peterson and Swift be missed from 2008 and can the current group of receivers step up as a unit and soften the loss of two senior leaders?

There are still some wide receivers on this Husker roster that should be expected to step up and take leadership role's with this team.

Veteran guys like Niles Paul, Menelik Holt, Wes Cammack, and Chris Brooks are juniors and seniors that have filled roles in previous seasons. It's your time now guys. Time to step up and be the players that you know you are and can be.

These guys should provide leadership to a group of young receivers in Antonio Bell, Khiry Cooper, Marcus Mendoza, and Junior College transfer Brandon Kinnie.

Word out of seven-on-seven drills during the summer session is Kinnie has taken a leadership role and is displaying some skills reminiscent of former Husker Maurice Purify, only Kinnie is faster and the same size.

Does this group of talented, yet still unproven receivers have what it takes to mesh with a first time starter at the quarterback position?

3. Can the offensive line and running game continue to progress and take some pressure of a new quarterback and inexperience in the wide receivers corp?

Even with the loss of the right side of the offensive line in guard Matt Slauson and tackle Lydon Murtha this group is still a deep and talented group.

Will guys like Mike Caputo, D.J. Jones, Keith Williams, Ricky Henry, and Derek Meyer step up to complete a strong unit?

Will the offensive line continue to improve under the tutelage of offensive line coach Barney Cotton?

Can these guys be the hammers to lead a talented running back duo of Roy Helu and Quentin Castille?

4. Will this Pelini defensive unit start to produce the turnovers that have been trademarks of past Pelini defenses?

Although, the 2008 defense was a significant improvement over the horrific Cosgrove coached defense of 2007 there is still huge room for improvement.

This defense just wasn't as disruptive as it could have been in 2008 and Pelini knows that.

Coming into 2009, they appear to have a defensive line that should be as disruptive as any in the Big 12, possibly the nation.

Guys like honors candidate Ndamukong Suh, plus two returning starters in Barry Turner and Pierre Allen, at defensive end flanking Suh, should create problems for opposing offensive lines.

Will the influx of athletic, fast, but young and inexperienced guys at the linebacker positions help to create a bit more havoc for opposing offenses?

Will the secondary, under Defensive Back's coach Marvin Sanders show improvement over last year and cut down on the number of break downs in coverage that led to many big plays for opposing teams in 2008?

5. After a year in which no coaches left the Nebraska program for the first time in several years will it show on game day?

For the first time since I believe 2002, Nebraska has retained it's entire coaching staff from the following year.

This fact can't be under stated or ignored. This continuity within a program is so important to it's long term success. A revolving door of coaching changes helps no one.

Gone are the days of the cohesiveness of the Osborne era coaches, but coaches staying in a program for more than a year or two should help its growth from year to year.

Let me know your thoughts, Cornhusker fans.

In your mind, what are the most important factors as we head into the 2009 season?

Go Big Red!

Big 12 Office: Offensive linemen holding is ignored by Big 12 Referees!

Andy P — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 17:56:05 -0400

I am an old Big 8/Big 12 fan and over the last few years, especially as the Big 12 has turned into a fantasy football league of pigskins flying like mallards in duck season, something has struck me.

Big 12 officials largely ignore offensive line holding penalties, even the outright and obvious WWF, clothelines, strangle hold take downs.

Yeah, yeah, I know.

Holding can be called on the offensive line nearly every play. I am astute enough and have watched more than enough football in my day to know and understand that old adage.

But, from what I have seen over many years, it is getting ridiculous! At least that is, in the Big 12.

This isn't a thought that I just recently formulated. No, it has been on my mind for a long long time and in talking and listening to many other fans it appears that I am not the only fan that has noticed.

I am speaking, not as a Nebraska fan, but as a fan of the Big 12 conference as a whole. There is obviously a problem with the way holding is interpreted by Big 12 referees or they just purposely choose to ignore it.

Are Big 12 referee's just bad or is there something else keeping the yellow flag in their pocket? You tell me. I want to know what the consensus is among other fans of the Big 12.

What could that something else be? Well, we know that college football and its soul is owned by the television networks and the contracts. I think we also know that television and its viewership enjoy high scoring, high flying shootouts.

Draw your own conclusion. I know what mine is.

Who benefits from referees that stick their heads in the sand and let offensive lineman do their dance with the defensive team?

Well, I will try to be as politically correct as I can, but this is what I see.

A few teams that in recent years, have turned to largely passing offenses, that have quarterback's protected by gargantuan offensive lineman. I won't name names, but a few teams south of the Kansas-Oklahoma border come to mind.

Is that clear enough?

I wonder if a headset conversation like the following has ever gone on between an Offensive Coordinator and Head Coach on game day in the Big 12.

OC: Hey Coach?

HC: Yeah, what's up?

OC: (Chuckling under his breath) Do you see what our offensive line is allowed to do to the defense?

HC: (More chuckling under breath) Yeah, I see it.

OC: You know what that means, right?

HC: (Now snickering) Yes, I hear what you're saying. Keep chucking the pigskin!

An incredible little factoid that I have witnessed many times over the years goes like this.

I've seen it time and time again. At times, I find it amusing to a degree. But, other times it is absolutely maddening! It's late in the game, the game has long ago been decided and, low and behold what happens?

Out comes a little yellow hankie, and for what? For holding on the offensive line that has been doing it for 3.5 quarters!

For the defensive team, that has been getting mugged all game long, I say thank you Big 12 referee. But, where was this flag in the first quarter before they put up 350+ yards passing, six touchdown passes and their quarterback hasn't been knocked down the entire game!!??

To me it comes off as nothing more than a "token" penalty on the offensive line that has been holding and mugging the other teams' defensive players the entire game.

Almost as if they throw that flag just so they can't be accused of "ignoring or blatantly refusing to call holding."

This type of officiating does nothing but hurt every team in the Big 12 and the Big 12 as a whole.

Almost annually now, and these teams know who they are, a few high profile Big 12 teams that love to throw the ball, get to bowl season and suddenly they lay an egg offensively.

It happened this past bowl season when two of these three teams lost bowl games and were made to look really bad on offense, and a third squeaked out a win. But, even the Big 12 team that did win it's BCS game wasn't nearly as effective offensively as they were in the Big 12.

That is extrmely interesting to me.

It's not just bad defense in the Big 12. The Big 12 still has good coaches on defense and those coaches recruit good athletes and put them on the defensive side of the ball!

Suddenly, the offensive lines of these teams are held responsible for playing within the rules of the game by officials with no ties to the Big 12.

I say, "Right on!," to these unbiased officials who call it like it should be called and make the offensive lines play on a level playing field.

Defensive ends are suddenly able to get around mammoth tackles, linebacker blitzes get to the quarterback because they can't be impeded by the outstretched arm of an offensive lineman that would clothesline a linebacker in the Big 12.

That is the way the game is supposed to be called.

Nebraska Cornhusker's Season Preview: Week 5 Vs Missouri Tigers

Andy P — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 13:39:05 -0400

Nebraska fans', the Cornhusker's have a shot in week 5 at a little redemption, with an added incentive to establish Nebraska as the leading contender for the Big 12 North crown and a shot at the Big 12 title.

The Cornhuskers travel to Columbia, MO to face the Tigers against the backdrop of their tiger stripe covered, whiskers wearing, tail wagging, morose fandom.

Columbia and its tiger striped inhabitants haven't been kind or generous to the Cornhusker's faithful in recent years.

It has been three straight trips, not since 2001, that the Cornhuskers and their faithful have been able to come away from Columbia and Faurot Field as victors.

Not since the days of Bill Masterson and Bill Glassford in the late 40s and early 50s has Nebraska found Columbia to be so unkind.

Will they buck the trend in 2009 and start to write a new chapter of dominance over the Tigers?

Time will tell.

In a bit of an odd twist of fate Missouri and Nebraska appear to be mirror images of one another. Sort of, at least. How is this you ask?

Offensively, both teams will be looking to replace very productive senior quarterbacks and each teams' leading duo of pass catchers. For Missouri, they will also need to replace an outstanding All American tight end in Chase Coffman. Nebraska does benefit from the return of tight end Mike McNeil, one of the leading pass catchers in 2008.

Nebraska and Missouri both return a starting running back in Roy Helu Jr. and Derrick Washington, respectively.

Missouri also needs to find replacements for defensive stalwarts, defensive ends Ziggy Hood and Stryker Sulak, plus hard hitting safety William Moore.

In all Missouri will be looking to replace 14 starters.

It's also notable that along with the 14 starters and loads of game experience gone, in 2009, Missouri will be replacing both their offensive and defensive coordinators from 2008.

Missouri will likely turn the keys of the offense over to Blaine Gabbert. Although, Missouri did lose some serious talent at wide receiver in Jeremy Maclin, they bring in some very experienced seniors in Jared Perry and Danario Alexander.

I am sure these guys can make plays, but I doubt that they will make the explosive run after the catch plays that made Maclin such a threat.

Barring something completely unforeseen, Nebraska's starting quarterback will be Zac Lee.

Now, although the Huskers did lose to graduation the teams two leading receivers in Swift and Peterson, there are a few guys with experience and some new comers that will be looked to to pick up the slack.

Of the experienced guys I expect Menelik Holt, Niles Paul, and Chris Brooks to provide leadership and to guide the way for the rest of the wide receivers.

Younger guys like Antonio Bell, Khiry Cooper and Junior College transfer Brandon Kinnie should fill in nicely and make some plays.

Word out of seven-on-seven drills this summer, is that Brandon Kinnie is taking a serious leadership role and is a physical clone of ex Husker Maurice Purify, but faster.

My thoughts on the game directly is that it is going to come down to running the ball, playing defense and good special teams play.

One of the bigger factors that I think will decide this game is which inexperienced quarterback makes fewer mistakes. Which opposing defense can force its will on the opposing quarterback?

Nebraska returns some very good players along the defensive line, in honors candidate, Ndamukong Suh, with experienced and athletic defensive ends Barry Turner and Pierre Allen on either side of Suh.

The Huskers are also very deep along the interior with youngsters like Jared Crick, Baker Steinkuhler, Terrance Moore and red shirt freshman defensive ends Cameron Meredith and Josh Williams.

Behind these guys Nebraska returns three of four secondary starters and several other players with lots of game experience.

Nebraska is likely going to look to some very young, but athletic guys at the linebacker positions like Weak-side backer Matthew May, Strong-side backer Sean Fisher and Missouri native Will Compton at the middle backer position. These young guys will be supported by veterans like Colton Koehler, Phillip Dillard and Blake Lawrence.

Missouri lost a bunch of talent and experience along the defensive front as three of four starters from 2008's very experienced group are now gone to graduation. Jaron Baston will be the only returning starter among the front four for Missouri.

Linebacker Sean Witherspoon will lead the Missouri defense. Witherspoon needs 133 tackles to becoome the schools all time leader.

I look for this battle to be a blood and guts, knuckle busting, head knocking, take no prisoners defensive war of attrition. A game that many fans of both teams will remember was the rule in the 70s and 80s.

Which team can make the other offense and their young quarterback blink first?

Nebraska should get a good push from an experinced offensive line going against a young defensive front. I don't look for Helu or Castille to put up huge numbers rushing the ball, but as a tandem should produce enough to help Zac Lee and open up zones for the passing game and the read option.

I am going to go with Nebraska on this one due to the experience returning along the defensive line and in the secondary. Suh, Allen and Co will put heat on Gabbert and force a couple key mistakes.

I see Nebraska winning a close hard fought game on a late Alex Henery field goal.

Nebraska 20

Missouri 17

Nebraska Cornhusker's Season Preview: Week 4 Vs La-Lafayette

Andy P — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 14:07:36 -0400

After a trip down to Blacksburg, Va. for a much anticipated rematch with Virginia Tech, Nebraska comes back to Lincoln to host the Louisanna Lafayette Rajin Cajuns.

Coming off of an emotional and tough game, win or lose, in Blacksburg, I could see this game against the Rajin Cajuns as a bit of a trap game.

Take note though Cornhusker fans, Pelini and the coaching staff proved in 2008 that after difficult games, with unfavorable outcomes, alas Missouri and Oklahoma, that they have the moxie and personalities to get the Cornhuskers to refocus to the current task at hand.

The Rajin Cajuns come into the 2009 season looking to replace a couple of stellar offensive players in quarterback Michael Desormeaux and running back Tyrell Fenroy. Desormeaux was the Sun Belt Conference offensive player of the year, while Fenley was the all time leading rusher in school and conference history.

The Rajin Cajuns will look to Sophomores Chris Masson and Brad Mcquire to lead the way for the offense. Coming out of spring practice neither had a clear edge over the other and it looks like the battle will go to the final days of fall camp.

On a positive note for the Cajun's is that they return a group of experienced offensive lineman led by senior center Chris Fisher, senior guard Brad Bustle and junior tackle Jonathan Decoster.

The other side of the ball for the Rajin Cajuns has lots of question marks coming into the 2009 season. In 2008 the defense gave up an average of 33.6 points per game. But, Coach Bustle said that he saw a much improved defense in spring drills, one that appears much faster and more athletic.

The defense is lead by linebacker Antwyne Zanders, a two time all Sun Belt Conference honoree.

Now, for the game itself.

Just as Nebraska will be coming off real a tough road game the week before, La-Lafayette, will also be coming into this game after visiting an LSU team in Death Valley. Makes me wonder, if playing two very strong out of conference road games, back to back, could have some sort of negative carry over to their visit to Lincoln.

Because of some inexperience at some key offensive positions I look for the Blackshirts to pose an all day problem for the Rajin Cajun's offense and whoever might start at quarterback for them.

I also look for this Cornhusker defense to start producing turnovers, a hallmark of any Pelini defense, that was sorely missed last year. An inexperienced quarterback, on the road, in a hostile environment, at times lends to turnovers.

The Rajun Cajins offensive line will be matched up against one of the premier defensive lines in the Big 12 conference and maybe the country. Can they hold the line and keep Suh and company from disrupting the entire offensive flow?

If they are unable to at least slow the rush down and keep negative offensive plays to a minimum, it might be a really really long day for the Cajuns quarterbacks and running backs.

When Nebraska has the ball I look for Lee and company to have very little trouble moving the ball through the air or on the ground. I look for a big day for tight end Mike McNeil who can cause match up problems for any defense. Lee will be able to find guys like Niles Paul, Menelik Holt and Chris Brooks open down the field for big plays through the air.

On the ground Nebraska should produce solid rushing numbers behind a group of experienced linemen who will be leading the way for Roy Helu Jr. and Quentin Castille. I look for both running backs to have good days toting the pigskin with both possibly exceeding the 100 yard mark.

In the end, a hostile environment, at least by Nebraska fan's standards, an inexperienced quarterback and the second tough out of conference road game in a row will prove to be too much for the Rajin Cajuns.

I see Nebraska dominating this game in the second half and leaving the field with a fairly comfortable victory.

My pick Nebraska 45

Rajin Cajuns 21

Nebraska Cornhuskers Season Preview: Week Three Vs. Virginia Tech

Andy P — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 16:51:25 -0400

On Sept. 19, the Cornhuskers will hit the road for the first time during the 2009 season and venture to Blacksburg, VA to play Virginia Tech. To say that this will be a monumental challenge for the Cornhuskers would minimize the actual task they face that day.

This game will mark the first road game for Zac Lee, Nebraska's likely first-year starting quarterback. In recent years, Blacksburg has earned a reputation of being a fairly difficult place to play, made more difficult this year by what appears to be a pretty salty bunch of Hokies. Salty Hokies? What is a Hokie, anyway?

Now, for the real nuts and bolts of this game.

VT Offense vs. the Huskers Defense

The Hokies offense will be led by junior QB Tyrod Taylor, who completed 57 percent of his passes in 2008 and was the team's second leading rusher with 738 yards. Taylor should benefit this year in having a corps of players returning with experience at the wide receiver position and in seeing the ACC's leading rusher, Darren Evans, leading the rushing attack.

An issue I see that could pose problems for the Hokies offense when on the field against the Huskers defense is the fact that they will be replacing a guard and a center. These are the guys that will be facing potential AA and high NFL draft pick Ndamukong Suh.

I know that these guys will be playing Alabama and Terrence Cody on Sept. 5, but Cody isn't the explosive inside force and sideline to sideline player that Suh is. Cody is only a run-stopper due mostly to his size.

Suh is a player that plays the run as well as the pass and puts heat on the quarterback from his NT position. On each side of Suh will be two returning defensive ends, strongside end Pierre Allan and weakside end Barry Turner, both of whom have 10-plus starts during their careers.

Nebraska is likely going to be playing, at least in part, a group of very young but athletic linebackers, led red shirt freshmen Sean Fisher, Will Compton, and Alonzo Whaley. These young guys will be bolstered by the veteran trio of Phillip Dillard, Colton Koehler, and Blake Lawrence.

Taylor and VT beat Nebraska last year because they allowed Taylor to get out of the pocket and extend plays, while watching the Huskers secondary break down time after time. Well, three of the four starters in the defensive backfield return for the Huskers, and I think they should perform more effectively as a cohesive group.

I look for the Nebraska defense to try to make Taylor a pure drop-back, stay-in-the-pocket passer, and they do have the defensive linemen to do that.

VT offense vs. Nebraska defense...I will call a push.

Nebraska Offense vs. the VT Defense

The Nebraska offense comes into this game with what looks to be a very solid and experienced group of offensive linemen with a tandem at running back in Roy Helu Jr. and Quentin Castille. They probably couldn't ask for a better situation to help take the pressure off of a quarterback venturing away from Lincoln for the first time.

Not only are the Cornhuskers inexperienced at quarterback in 2009, they are also looking to part-time wide receivers such as Menelik Holt, Niles Paul, and Chris Brooks to take more of a leadership role and be big playmakers at the wide receiver position.

Young players like Antonio Bell, Khiry Cooper, and JC transfer Brandon Kinnie should be looked upon to make some plays also.

I expect Nebraska and Lee to look for standout tight end Mike McNeil in the red zone and in crucial down and distance situations.

Virginia Tech returns seven starters to a defense that is annually one of the stingiest in the country. They are always well coached and prepared by Bud Foster and will be again this year. They are led on defense by defensive end Jason Worilds, who was a second-team All-ACC performer in 2008.

I have to give an edge to the Hokies defense over the Nebraska offense in 2009 due to the level of inexperience at quarterback and the wide receiver positions.

Nebraska Special Teams vs. VT Special Teams

Nebraska will be getting the 50-plus redshirt freshmen who didn't play in 2008 on the field as special teams contributors in 2009. There was quite a bit of speed and athletic ability that Nebraska redshirted in 2008, and this will be many of these guys' first chance to participate.

The Hokies are needing to replace a kicker, and Nebraska has the ever-reliable Alex Henery, he of the 57-yard field goal to beat Colorado in 2008.

I would give the Huskers an edge here in special teams because they have Henery, who will likely be punting this year, but the Hokies and Beamer always have solid and sometimes "special" teams play. So, I will call this a push.

If you can't tell already, I do expect this game to be close and likely low scoring, as opposed to the 35-30 game in Lincoln last year.

As for a pick.

Well...

Come back after the first two weeks of the season, and I will make my pick at that time.

Nebraska Cornhuskers Season Preview: Week Two Vs. Arkansas St.

Andy P — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 14:29:55 -0400

While looking at Arkansas State, I see a team that has the ability to make some plays, and make things difficult for its opponents on both sides of the ball.

They will be coming to Lincoln with a proven quarterback in senior Corey Leonard, who in 2008 broke his own school record with 2,863 yards of total offense. Leonard also tied his school record with 16 TD passes while amassing a personal best 2,347 yards passing.

Those numbers should increase this year considering that wide receivers Brandon Thompson, Jahbari McLennan, Jarriel Norman, and Taylor Clements are all returning in 2009 to form the core of a very experienced receiving corps for ASU.

Running back Reggie Arnold also returns to add to his already 3,000 career rushing yards.

On defense the Red Wolves are very strong up front with a corps of defensive lineman returning, lead by Sun Belt Conference defensive player of the year Alex Carrington.

Some of the question marks for this team are..

1) Lack of depth at numerous key positions. Numerous second team guys are sophomores or redshirt freshman that have yet to see any extended playing time. A number of redshirt freshmen may get a chance to play in the offensive line, the defensive line, and at linebacker.

2) The offensive line may be the biggest question mark of all since Arkansas State will be looking to replace four lineman who saw regular playing time in 2008.

Regarding the head to head match up of Arkansas St vs. Nebraska:

I see some potential serious matchup problems for ASU because of their weakest link, the offensive line, going against the Husker's possible best unit on the team, the defensive line.

This will impede the running game for the Red Wolves because they will struggle all day keeping Suh, Allen, Turner, Crick, and company out of the backfield, which will then free up the young, but speedy Nebraska linebackers to stop the run game.

When the Red Wolves do drop back to pass, I expect to see a mad rush to the quarterback, one that accounts for four or five sacks, numerous hurries, tipped balls, and probably an interception or two, considering the bodies that will be collapsing the pocket around Leonard.

All in all, I don't see the Red Wolves offense making many plays against a revved up Blackshirt unit, but I will still give them 14 points because there will invariably be some breakdowns in pass coverage.

On offense, I expect the Nebraska offensive line to take control of the game and look for Roy Helu to have a big game running the ball.

Zac Lee will get his opportunities and will be looking downfield to get guys like Menelik Holt, Niles Paul, and Chris Brooks involved in the passing game before the big game down in Blacksburg, Va. the following week.

I expect a Husker victory to the tune of 45-14.

Nebraska Cornhuskers Season Preview: Week 1 NU Vs FAU

Andy P — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 14:27:13 -0400

Starting today and continuing through the summer I will be taking a weekly look at the 12 regular season games on the 2009 schedule for the Nebraska Cornhuskers. At the end of each preview I will make an early season prediction of the outcome and we will see just how close I actually come to the correct prediction.

Up first on the schedule for the Cornhuskers is Florida Atlantic University from the Sun Belt Conference. Florida Atlantic is lead by, the one and only, and former Cornhusker nemesis, Howard Schellenberger.

The Owls finished the 2008 season with a 7-6 record after defeating Central Michigan in the Motor City Bowl. The Owls will be lead by quarterback Rusty Smith, a 6'5" senior who was the MVP of the Motor City Bowl after passing for 2 td's and 306 yards.

To compliment Smith, they have William Ross returning at FB who was able to run for 300+ yards last year and grab 23 receptions out of the backfield.

On defense, they will be lead by defensive lineman Josh Savage.

Nebraska comes into this game with some big questions on offense after losing quarterback Joe Ganz and wide receivers Nate Swift and Todd Peterson to graduation.

In 2008 this qb/wr trio accounted for 3800 passing yards, approximately 1500 yards to Swift and Peterson and 25+ td's between the qb/wr trio.

Zac Lee has performed well in Spring Practice up to this point and appears to have a solid grasp of the offense. Lee also appears to have a stronger arm than Ganz and is more likely to beat a team with his feet than Joe Ganz.

Taking some of the pressure of off Lee will be an offensive line that has a good deal of depth and experience.

And we can't forget the dangerous running back tandem of Roy Helu Jr. and Quentin Castille.

Nebraska's leading returning receiver will be tight end Mike McNeil and look for Lee to utilize McNeil often until guys like Menelik Holt, Niles Paul, Chris Brooks, and others get comfortable at the wide receiver positions.

On defense I expect to see continued improvement as the players begin to get more comfortable in the Pelini brothers' defensive system. I expect to see a defense playing with more confidence and more speed after a full year under their belts.

Clearly, the Nebraska defense is lead by DT Ndamukong Suh, but he will have plenty of help along side him with returning starting defensive lineman Pierre Allan and Barry Turner looking to apply pressure from their edge rush positions.

Nebraska will be a bit inexperienced, but athletic at the linebacker spots with young redshirt frosh like MLB Will Compton, SLB Sean Fisher and WLB Alonzo Whaley challenging for starting spots.

The defensive backfield returns a core of experience with guys like SS Larry Asante, FS Ricky Thenarse, FS Matt O'Hanlon, CB Prince Amukamara, CB Anthony West, and CB/FS Eric Hagg.

I expect the Nebraska offense to come out and grind it out and establish a strong rushing attack against the Owls in the opener on Sept. 5. Once this is established I think Shawn Watson will allow Zac Lee to get his feet wet in making some down the field throws.

I expect that Helu and Castille will both have success running the ball on the Owls and have 200+ yards and 3+ td's between them. Lee will also look good throwing the ball against the Owls and could have 2-3 passing td's himself.

I expect the Nebraska defense to come out flying around and just be way too much for the Owls to handle. I also see a possible defensive or special teams TD that was missing all of last year. In the end I think Nebraska runs away with this game to the tune of 45-17.