Nebraska Football: What Carl Pelini to FAU Means for the Huskers

Last week, multiple reports came out saying Carl Pelini was to be the new head coach of Florida Atlantic.  Those reports were validated Monday when Carl Pelini was announced to be the next head coach of FAU.

His departure has multiple effects on Husker nation.  Many people know of his defensive prowess and recruiting ability, but now there are some questions regarding his vacant position at Nebraska. 

What exactly does Carl's leaving mean to Nebraska and the Husker faithful?

Recruiting

Perhaps the biggest impact of Carl leaving Nebraska is his recruiting abilities.  Not to take anything away from the other coaches, but Carl is a hell of a recruiter.

He brought some big name talent to Nebraska, ranging from All-American linebacker Lavonte David, to quarterback Taylor Martinez, to receivers Quincy Enuwa and Brandon Kinnie, among others.

No doubt he will be able to get some talent in Boca Raton, where good recruits are everywhere.

One must wonder just how big of an impact his departure will have on the Huskers' recruiting efforts.

New Defensive Coordinator

With Carl Pelini accepting the head coach position at Florida Atlantic, Nebraska finds itself without a defensive coordinator. 

There's a variety of things Bo could do to solve this problem.  One is to promote from within the program.  If that happened, the most likely candidate would be John Papuchis. 

Bo could also hire someone from the outside.  Many names have been brought up ranging from recently fired Illinois coach Ron Zook to former Arizona coach Mike Stoops. 

Bo likes to hire people he's had experience with.  It just so happens that Bo has experience with both of those coaches.  Zook was on the Ohio State staff when Pelini played there.  And then there's Stoops. 

Most people know of the relationship with the Pelini and Stoops brothers.  They grew up in Youngstown, Ohio and remain friends. Stoops would be a great hire that many Husker fans would be excited about. 

Regardless, Bo must decide carefully.  One wrong choice and the defense could be in for a down slide, though not likely because Pelini likes to play a role in the defensive schemes.

2014 Matchup

As soon as Carl was announced as head coach at FAU, people realized that the Owls just so happen to be coming to Lincoln in 2014.  This could be a big matchup (storyline-wise, the Owls shouldn't even challenge the Huskers). 

Remember last year when Turner Gill led his Kansas team into Lincoln?  It would be like that.  There wouldn't be a hatred of the other team, but more respect. 

Of course, all this is assuming Carl is still at FAU in 2014 and hasn't moved on to greener pastures.