OFFENSE
At the close of 2007, behind quarterback Joe Ganz, Nebraska was lighting up the scoreboard. In three starts, Ganz threw for 1399 yards and 15 touchdowns leaving many to wonder how he had not won this job in the fall. Outside of the loss of a pair of leading receivers and an offensive lineman, the Cornhuskers return plenty of firepower on offense. Four lineman with a combined 67 starts are back led by tackle Lyndon Murtha and guard Matt Slauson. Jaivorio Burkes is a very talented sophomore who could emerge as an honors candidate. Versatile back Marlon Lucky, the leading rusher and receiver of 2007, returns and could really have a great season. Lucky will be pushed for playing time as Roy Helu, who has turned many a head on the staff and Quentin Castille, who has the tools to really become an explosive factor, showcase their talents. There is some work to do on the four deep at wide receiver but steady players Todd Peterson and Nate Swift return. Among those looking to step up are Niles Paul and Menelik Holt.DEFENSE
After an abysmal 2007, this unit can get no worse. This is Pelini’s strong suit and I do expect marked improvement on this side of the ball. Up front, ’07 was a disaster with no a hint of a pass rush. Zach Potter and Barry Turner can play, and expect Pelini to turn both of them loose. DT Ndamakong Suh completely disappeared a year ago, but he has new life under this staff and could realize his potential. Ty Steinkuhler and the surprising emergence of Jared Crick could help this unit. The backers are bare, but RB Cody Glenn was moved there in the spring and I think it is just what the doctor ordered. He is a smart player with good speed and should challenge for conference honors. Phillip Dillard returns and the coaches are pleased with his work ethic in getting better. The secondary, led by cornerback Armando Murillo is decent with three returning starters. Again, Pelini has something to work with at this spot. Keep an eye on Latravis Washington, who is a player I think could shine under Pelini's scheme.
INTAGIBLES
Pelini has hired in a new strength coach and he is trimming the fat. A multitude of players have dropped several pounds and giving the ‘Huskers more speed and quickness. The defense was too big and slow a year ago, and it showed in person and on my couch down in the Sunshine State. Pelini will also return Nebraska to an attacking defense unlike the read as they go by mindset we saw a year ago, where Nebraska was second worst in getting turnovers. This will change under Pelini’s defensive style.
HONORS CANDIDATES
RB Marlon Lucky could be All America if he gets enough touches. Ganz is much better than most think but the Big XII is loaded with standout signal callers. Slauson and Murtha should be all conference while either Potter or Turner could as well.NEW ARRIVALS
OT-DT Baker Steinkuhler was the top ranked incoming freshman but it does not appear he has made enough waves in fall camp to be a major factor. LB Will Compton is expected to get time while Alfonzo Dennard has impressed in the defensive backfield. John Levorson has come out of nowhere to contend for some playing time, certainly on special teams if nothing else. He seems salty.
FINAL ANALYSIS
There is talent on this squad and it will take Bo Pelini some time to get Nebraska back to the glory times. Since Pelini kept Shawn Watson on board to run the offense, a good move, the ‘Huskers will be quite potent. As the defense comes alive, the offense will be expected to carry the load, and it will. The schedule is in Nebraska’s favor and I could see 10 games in the win column. Even if Nebraska can rise up to take Missouri, they will likely drop one somewhere else. Games at Texas Tech and Oklahoma seem extremely difficult, while Missouri, Kansas, Virginia Tech and rising Colorado provide some stiff home dates. K-Sate will be on fire after getting torched for 73 by NU a year ago. It looks like 9-3 to me with road losses at TT and OU and one home to either Mizzou or Va. Tech. Go Big Red!
GAMEDAY GALLERY
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