Glorious Morning Frost

There was a very welcomed cool Frost across Cornhusker country this morning.

As former Husker DE Adam Carriker so eloquently tweeted:

Scott Frost, native son and former Husker star quarterback who after some years playing in the National Football League successfully climbed the coaching ladder to find himself winning the AAC Championship as head coach of UCF, was announced this afternoon as head football coach of his, and our, beloved Nebraska Cornhuskers.

The events that led to the hiring of Frost were plentiful, but as the landscape is reviewed, desperately needed. Nebraska has not won a championship of any kind since 1999. While there have some good times (some thought at one point Bo Pelini, who won at least 9 games every season he coached, was going to take there but faltered on reaching the elite), the program has been in a declining state since the legendary Tom Osborne retired.

With Bo Pelini fired, mostly for an adversarial relationship with superiors along with sideline behavior unbecoming someone representing Nebraska, Athletic Director Shawn Eichorst went on his own and hired Mike Riley from Oregon State, a very nice man with a long and varied coaching record who represented the antithesis of Pelini.

Most in Husker Nation were against at the hire; I was not. I thought, given his experience, he would be able to excel with the resources Nebraska would give him, as he had achieved with so much less. I was quite wrong in my assessment of the hiring of Mike Riley.

Riley is a good man, and he represented Nebraska with dignity. Much of his command off the field was quite good, and recruiting, the mother's milk of a successful football program, was steadily ascending. However, the product on the field was poor. The first of Riley's three seasons were littered with mind boggling and painful last second losses, but culminated with perhaps the best game, a victory over UCLA in the Foster Farms Bowl which seemed to give indication of what could be. A 9-4 season in 2016 seemed decent on the surface, but the victories were close wins over weak teams, and other than falling to Wisconsin in a close one, the Big Red was not competitive against other top teams, with big losses to Iowa and Tennessee to close out the season.

One could argue the program was ascending, but in early 2017 the case being made on that point came crashing to reality in a stunning home loss to Northern Illinois. Nobody would state it publicly, but unless Nebraska ran the table, the Mike Riley tenure would end.

Then came news that Chancellor Ronnie Green and Hank Bounds had decided that Nebraska would part company with AD Eichorst. Husker Nation was enthusiastic about this appropriate development. Since Eichorst was fired, and he was the one who hired Riley, it seemed they were somewhat joined at the hip, and with Eichorst gone, Riley would soon follow.

In short order, Green announced Nebraska had hired Bill Moos from Washington State, and formerly of Oregon, as new Athletic Director. Moos signaled that he would evaluate the status of the football program and would not make any changes until the season was over.

Meanwhile, the records were being set with the football program; records of futility. Nebraska was widely embarrassed, again, in a home loss to Ohio State. A come from behind victory at Purdue masked 58 minutes of ineffectiveness. Then, Nebraska was listless at Minnesota and got scorched for over 50 points in defeat (Minnesota was shut out in their next two games).  Penn State clobbered the Huskers and Iowa knocked Nebraska out in a humiliating home loss to close the season, as this group finishes 4-8 and ineligible for a bowl contest. In the last three games, each of Nebraska's opponents scored over 50 points, something that had not happened since the era of World War II.

Unacceptable.

Moos then promptly dismissed Riley and the staff, save Trent Bray. This move shocked absolutely nobody.

As the season was painfully drawing to a close, we learned of many areas of concern within the program. The lack of toughness and want to on the field was obvious, but behind the scenes the most significant of the issues was a lack of leadership, with differing factions between various levels of the program.  Along with the play on the field, this was not an environment which set a foundation for success. Quite the contrary.

A clean slate was required, one which fumigated the acceptance of losing.  Leadership was needed in the form of responsibility, accountability and disciple; the definition of the known goals and objectives and prices that need to be paid to reach the desired levels of achievement.

A return to the way Nebraska used to handle its business.

When Moos arrived, he did not sit behind a desk. He met the people; via social media, sports talk shows, around campus and at the games. He reached out to boosters and fans alike, and this group smothered in frustration gave him an earful.

They told him what to do, but Moos already knew what to do; hire a great football coach who understood what the fabric of Nebraska football was and could restore the order.

As it turned out, the most sought after and successful young football coach in the country was one of our own. It was Scott Frost, who knew exactly the characteristics of Nebraska, the state and the football program.

Moos seems a powerful man quite comfortable in his own skin, but he no doubt realized that although every Husker from Orlando to Spokane wanted him to hire Frost, Frost was indeed the top candidate for any football program in need of new direction. For Nebraska, Frost was the only candidate.

Scott Frost had Tom Osborne down to speak to his Central Florida boosters and team before the season in August. I attended the events, and outside of hearing Osborne speak, had a great time reminiscing about the glory days of Husker football with former linemen Bill Bobbora and Greg Austin. Austin, or Coach G, who is the offensive line coach for Frost at UCF,  is reportedly joining Frost at Nebraska, and this is great news as the offensive line play was among the areas on the field that were most disappointing.

While the events were quite enjoyable, one thing stood out to be sure, and that was how much Tom Osborne meant to Scott Frost.

Walking out to our trucks after an evening event, Frost and I discussed how meaningful it was for him to quarterback Nebraska to the win over Tennessee in the Orange Bowl giving the Huskers the 1997 National Title, which turned out the be the last game Osborne would ever coach.  Frost said it was just such an honor for him to have helped get that victory for his beloved coach.

I am not sure if Osborne and Frost discussed anything about Frost potentially coming home at these events, but given the vibe I observed, I had zero doubt Frost would return to Lincoln if called upon.

Nebraska called, and although it was no doubt a difficult decision, Frost chose to come home.

Make no mistake. Frost genuinely loves his team at Central Florida, and the fine people of this wonderful university. Orlando is not called The City Beautiful for nothing; Frost and his family adore the area.

But, Nebraska is home. That red "N" means so much to Nebraskans, and an opportunity to restore this proud program to its rightful level among the nations elite that those in Husker Nation can be proud of once again is a task Frost could not turn away from, and did not.

I have no doubt Frost will accomplish his goals. Spend five minutes with this man, and you will know that he is a principled and caring individual, a humble but intoxicating presence that while demanding the best from those around him, understands that hard work and integrity that take individuals, and teammates, a long way.

Oh, and Frost likes to have a lot of fun along the way.

The announcement of Scott Frost as head coach of the Cornhuskers, with Tom Osborne standing by along with over 100 former players who showed up, to not only congratulate Frost, but to offer assistance, brought allergic reactions to the eyes of hundred of thousands (105,000 on Huskers.com to view presser) Husker faithful across the nation, myself gleefully included.

It was a glorious morning of Frost on the ground in Lincoln today.

Welcome home Coach Frost!  We are thrilled beyond words to have you back home with us.

Good Luck and Go Big Red!

Almost

There was quite a bit of turmoil as the Nebraska Cornhuskers headed west to San Diego to face the rising Southern California Trojans in The National University Holiday Bowl.  The Huskers had melted down the stretch, getting torched by Wisconsin, losing at home on senior day to Minnesota before rallying from a deficit at Iowa to win in overtime.

These events, all too common over the tenure of Bo Pelini as Husker head coach, led to his dismissal at the end of the regular season. Many notable players were quite hurt by the firing of Pelini, and this no doubt created a high level of turmoil within the program. While Mike Riley was promptly hired as head coach, it was offensive line coach Barney Cotton, a former Husker player with three sons having played for the Big Red, who would coach the bowl game.

How would the Huskers respond?  Nebraska, a touchdown underdog, played better than most expected and could have won the game, falling 45-42 in a wild game which saw several big plays.

It was much like Husker fans have witnessed all season.  On occasion, the Big Red looked like a team that would struggle to win games, unable to stop the opposition when it counted.  On the other hand, the Huskers looked like a team, that when clicking, could defeat anyone who showed up.

On this night, the Trojans, who are emerging from the shackles of NCAA probation, looked much like the young talent loaded who will be a sure fire top ten team to start 2015, using their excellent skill position players to score points.  RB Buck Allen ran strong, and talented QB Cody Kessler led the offensive unit. The SC OL did a good job, WR Nelson Agholor was as advertised and freshman sensation WR Adoree Jackson looks quite special.

Nebraska was strong early, and led a lead slip away just before the half. But the Big Red continued to battle, even after falling behind by 17 points.  Ameer Abdullah had a 20 yard touchdown run, but was held under 100 yards rushing, and the Huskers only generated about 3.5 yards per carry.

Nebraska RB Ameer Abdullah
Photo/Omaha World Herald

Tommy Armstrong
Photo/Huskers.com

However, on this night, with All America DE Leonard Williams owning the line of scrimmage, the Big Red would have to win the game through the air. While he has his usual ups and downs, Nebraska quarterback Tommy Armstrong has his best game as a Husker.  Considered by many to have his position as the starting signal caller in question with the new staff coming in, Armstrong put in quite the performance, going 32/51 for 381 yards and three touchdowns.

Armstrong had some very poor throws, one pick and a few others that could have been picked, but overall, he was exactly the type of field general you want out there ballin for your team.  Runs and throws were mixed well, and Armstrong utilized his full compliment of weapons.

Kenny Bell had a strong game, as did Jordan Westerkamp, but the star on the field was DeMornay Pierson-El, who is a threat to go the distance with every touch. Abdullah, held in check for the most part on the ground, was mixed in well as a receiver as having the ballin his hands was a clear cut objective.

Nebraska had some good plays on defense against the strong Trojan offense, noting an interception by Josh Mitchell, but USC seemed in control of the line of scrimmage, balanced and effective on offense.

The effort was strong all night, and for the seniors, I am glad they let it all hang out.  However, the game seemed a microcosm of the Pelini era; a loss with a handful of sound excuses that pulled a defeat from the hands of victory.  The 'Huskers almost won, but did not.

The Cornhuskers finish 9-4, the seventh straight year with four losses.  The Mike Riley era cannot start soon enough.

Head 'Husker

Last Thursday, The University of Nebraska named Mike Riley as head football coach.  The move to hire Riley, head coach at Oregon State, as head 'Husker came completely out of left field, almost literally. While some may claim to have had insight to this hire, they would be lying, as nobody saw this coming.

Nebraska football coach Mike Riley/Photo LJS

Riley grew up in Corvallis, home of the Beavers where he had spent the last decade, so it seemed like he would remain there to conclude his career.  However, when the opportunity presented itself, the 61 year old Riley could not resist.  While Riley and his family no doubt have deep affinity for the Oregon State community, for a football coach looking for expansive resources to teach his craft backed by an unrivaled fan base, there is no place like Nebraska.

In the aftermath of firing Bo Pelini, Nebraska AD Shawn Eichorst had to get this hire right.  Many doubted Eichorst could pull it off, including me, but he operated in secret and got a very good football coach.  Most in the national media, inclusive of ESPN's Kirk Herbstreit, gave the Huskers high marks for the hire.

For the average fan in Husker Nation, this hire was met with bewilderment.  However, for those who follow the game intently, or have moderate knowledge of the game through having played or coached, the hire of Riley invokes a high level of optimism.

While there is no question Bo Pelini is a very good football coach and left the Nebraska program in better shape than he found it in, Riley has a proven track record of excelling in avenues many feel were below average under Pelini.  Examples of these areas would include growth and progression at the quarterback position, the development of players and mental toughness, of which attention to detail would be part.

I have followed Riley for many years and have been most impressed with what he has accomplished at Oregon State, who in 2013 lost a 36-35 squeaker to high powered cross state rival Oregon.  Riley can flat coach, and I am very excited at what he may be able to accomplish given the resources available at Nebraska.

The more those who question the hire get a chance to become engaged with Riley and his abilities, I think they will become more and more pleased with the hire.  Nobody has a crystal ball, but I do subscribe that Riley has all the qualities and attributes the Husker fan base is seeking in leading the Big Red back to national prominence.

That national prominence, with apologies to national pundits such as Dan Patrick who think Nebraska needs to know their place in the college football landscape, includes challenging for the national title.  That has been the history of Nebraska, and it will be such in the future.  After all, there is no place like Nebraska.  GBR!

Bo Will Go

This morning, Nebraska athletic director Shawn Eichorst terminated the tenure of Bo Pelini as head coach at the University of Nebraska. Bo Pelini helped restore the order after the disastrous Bill Callahan regime, running the football program adhering to Nebraska principles and no doubt a very good football coach.  A measurement of that can be seen by the reactions of the players who play for him, who are without question hurt deeply by this decision.

Bo Pelini
Photo/Aaron Babcock

While player admiration is an outstanding attribute, the overriding factor at the end of the day is winning football games; not only football games, but key football games of significance versus conference rivals and non-conference top tier teams where glimpses of ascending status can be seen.  Legitimately competing for championships is also important, and for those who coaches who are decent at the former but failing in the latter, tenure is short.

With that stated, Bo Pelini is out at Nebraska. 'Husker AD Shawn Eichorst said Bo Pelini "didn't win the games that mattered the most".  Agreed.

I thought the hire of Pelini was outstanding, and had hoped things would have turned out differently. However, sadly, this was the right decision. Pelini is a good man and good football coach, but Nebraska continued to lose relevancy and should demand more out of the traditionally proud football program than the gridiron company currently being kept.

Many in Husker Nation think the fan base expects too much, viewing Pelini having won nine games in each of his seasons as above average and a new normal of what Husker fan expectations should be.  I find that defeatist.  Although times, and quite frankly, the game, have changed, there is no reason to think the University of Nebraska cannot achieve and maintain greatness; competing for and winning championships.

Under Pelini, the team is stable leaning toward regressing.  Rather than keep Pelini and remain stagnant, the time is now to seek new leadership to take the program higher from the very solid base Pelini built in the aftermath of Callahan.  I for one appreciate very much the job Pelini did in restoring the order.

While the players are venting heavily on social media, and I recognize they are young men, many away from home on a relationship built with Bo who are hurt, Husker fans across the nation have been hurt as well. Getting waxed by Wisconsin on national television repeatedly, losing to Minnesota, failing to score a big win over a top ten team and needing individual player heroics to beat pedestrian Iowa, not to mention McNeese State, is not where this once proud program should be standing.

It is not, and it needs to change.  It will change.

Firing Pelini was the easy decision.  Now comes the hard part, hiring the next coach.

There are many names being thrown about, but it I got a vibe from the Eichorst presser that he has his guy. Lists are popping up everywhere with potential candidates to succeed Pelini, and I do not have a favorite.  I would like a coach that employs a run based open offense and an attacking defensive scheme.

It does not seem you can turn over a program of national historical prominence such as Nebraska to a favorite son former quarterback who is currently in his second season as the offensive coordinator at Oregon. After all, Scott Frost has said that Duck signal caller Marcus Mariota is the best player he has ever seen, and with that the Ducks might be 7-3 without him, which takes some shine off the coaching efforts. Perhaps a better option would be Craig Bohl, a former Nebraska assistant who after directing 1-AA North Dakota State to three consecutive national titles is in his first season at Wyoming. Or, maybe, Jim McElwain at Colorado State.  A seemingly unrealistic candidate who is mentioned that I like is Georgia coach and Nebraska native Mark Richt.  Minnesota coach Jerry Kill is intriguing, with the job he has done for the Gophers eye opening.

Interesting options include Willie Fritz of Georgia Southern and Justin Fuente of Memphis.

Among the candidates I would not support are Greg Schiano, Jim Tressell, Paul Chryst, Al Golden, Pat Narduzzi, Dave Doren and Tom Herman.

Eichorst is on the clock, and this decision had better be a good one. GBR!

The Color & Pageantry Top 25

College Football

Top 25

1.     Florida State, 11-0, 1
2.     Alabama, 10-1, 2
3.     Oregon, 10-1, 3
4.     Mississippi State, 10-1, 4
5.     Baylor, 9-1, 5
6.     Texas Christian, 9-1, 6
7.     Ohio State, 10-1, 7
8.     Georgia, 9-2, 9
9.     UCLA, 9-2, 10
10.   Michigan State, 9-2, 12
11.   Kansas State, 8-2, 11
12.   Arizona, 9-2, 14
13.   Wisconsin, 9-2, 13
14.   Auburn, 8-3, 15
15.   Georgia Tech, 9-2, 16
16.   Arizona State, 9-2, 17
17.   Missouri, 9-2, 21
18.   Louisville, 8-3, 20
19.   Oklahoma, 8-3,19
20.   Arkansas, 6-5, NR
21.   Ole Miss, 8-3, 8
22.   Minnesota, 8-3, 25
23.   Clemson, 8-3, NR
24.   Colorado State, 10-1, NR
25.   Marshall, 11-0, NR

OUT:  Nebraska (18), Utah (22), USC (23) and Duke (24).

VOTES:  Utah, LSU, Iowa, Nebraska, USC, Boise State, Texas A&M, Duke, West Virginia, Tennessee, Notre Dame, Washington, Stanford, Boston College, Virginia, North Carolina and Miami.

NATIONAL ANALYSIS

Duke needed to beat North Carolina at home on Thursday to get the ACC Coastal, but the Tar Heel team many of us expected to see in 2015 showed up in Durham and blasted the Blue Devils, handing the Coastal to Georgia Tech and making the Heels bowl eligible....K State defeated West Virginia in a cold night in Morgantown....Florida dismantled Eastern Kentucky to give Coach Will Muschamp a final home victory before he coaches his last game as head Gator at FSU on Saturday.....Georgia and South Carolina bombed overmatched opponents....Northwestern has come together in recent weeks and whipped an improved but injured Purdue team....Sparty rolled, and after some early issues, so did Ohio State, who dumped Indiana....UCF bombed winless SMU, who should be inking Mack Brown as their new head coach....Arizona State faced some legit offense by Washington State, but overpowered the Cougars in the end....Illinois upset Penn State....Incredibly, Wake Forest and Virginia Tech played a scoreless game, which ended when the Deacons prevailed 6-3 in double overtime.  It is puzzling what has happened to Frank Beamer's Hokies, who soundly defeated Ohio State in Columbus only to become the doormat of the ACC; Wow!......The rushing record Wisconsin's Melvin Gordon set last week running roughshod over Nebraska incredibly lasted only one week, as Oklahoma freshman running back Samaje Preine, unheard of until this day, ran for 427 yards against Kansas, who had been playing better in recent weeks...Utah had been having a good year, but it is seemingly unraveling as Arizona came to town and dominated the second half en route to a convincing win, and the Cats are playing quite well under Rich Rod....In the last several weeks, Arkansas has risen the level of their game, shutting out LSU last week. This week, Ole Miss came to town and the Hogs jumped on the Rebels early and continued the assault late in blanking eighth ranked Ole Miss 30-0, shutting out a ranked opponent two weeks in row, which has not happened in decades of moons if at all post WWII.  Nobody wants any part of the Hogs right now, unless starting quarterback Brandon Allen's injury is more serious than first thought...Melvin Gordon helped Wisconsin hold on to win at Iowa...Maryland won at Michigan, and the Wolverines, having had to kick off the  team their best defender, is a dumpster fire who at some point will begin a coaching search as soon as they shore up their sports administration.....Louisville won at Notre Dame while Clemson beat up on lowly Georgia State...Stanford shut down high powered Cal in The Big Game....BAMA staked their claim as the top ranked team bombing Western Carolina.... Oregon routed an improved Colorado team in Eugene with Marcus Mariota running wild...Mizzou won at Rocky Top, and has chance to win the SEC East....Miss. State routed Vandy and Baylor outlasted Okie State....UCLA flexed muscle and won the at home against Southern Cal, with three in a row now for the battle of Los Angeles....Washington got a sound victory over Oregon State.

NEBRASKA ANALYSIS

After the demoralizing debacle last week at Wisconsin, seemingly with jobs on the line, the Cornhuskers had an opportunity to show the home crowd, as they say goodbye to a senior class inclusive of record players Kenny Bell and Ameer Abdullah, that that game was not representative of their level and that the program is in a state of ascension.  A decent Minnesota team was in town, but this is a game that the Cornhuskers should win, particularly at home.  For once, the Big Red got decent play out of quarterback Tommy Armstrong, but they failed to win the game anyhow.  Offensively, the O-line was average at best, and while a injury riddled Abdullah performed admirably, he was not in position to carry the team on his back.  Sadly, Mark Pelini was lost for the game on the first play, although Ryne Reeves, the better player, filled in without hiccup.  Kenny Bell hauled in a huge gain off a broken play, but got knocked silly as his head hit the field turf, and sadly Bell was lost in his final home game due to concussion.  Demornay Pierson-El , Alonzo Moore and Jordan Westercamp tried to pick up the slack, but they could not produce enough. A healthy Cethan Carter at tight end was rarely targeted, if ever.  On defense, the line was ok, but did not seize and opportunity to dominate.  They defense adequately slowed David Cobb, the Gophers talented running back, but failed miserably to account for quarterback Mitch Leidner, who ran basic backside scrambles for over 100 yards total on the day.  That the staff could not adjust to stop that play all day is indicative of the lack of coaching acumen on the sideline.  Linebackers and the secondary again failed to make extra ordinary plays, displaying another dismal tackling effort.  Randy Gregory, who should come back as his play, although stellar in flashes, is not dominant, blocked a field goal attempt which Nate Gerry returned for a score giving the Big Red a 21-7 lead.  Nebraska was not playing a high powered offensive outfit, but still was unable to protect the lead; at home.  Sadly, this has become a pattern for Nebraska.  The Big Red are mentally weak, with penalties, a lack of execution and turnovers regular occurrences.  Horrible play calling offensively gives credence that an identity is lacking.  Defensively, the calling card of the staff, tackling is very poor, and the failure to make plays on the back end allows opponents to extend drives.  I wanted Bo Pelini to succeed, and the first post of this blog was complimenting his hire.  But, it is now reality that Nebraska is no longer in the company of championship teams, having not taken out a top ranked opponent in many a moon.  By any reasonable assessment, the program is slightly above average. If the fan base is comfortable with that, then we have lost our identity as Nebraskans.  I think Pelini is a good man, and he forgot more about football last week than I know, but from my perspective as a Cornhusker is that we should demand more out of our traditionally proud football program than the company we are currently keeping, such as toss up games with Minnesota and Iowa.  I refuse to accept the new normal. Nebraska used to be a toss up against Florida State. It is time to take the necessary steps to get back to that level.

FLORIDA STATE ANALYSIS

"We're undefeated. We finish every game. Everybody else in the country has not finished at least one game. We've finished every one of them." -- Jimbo Fisher

Although the Florida State Seminoles jumped out to a quick 7-0 lead over a tough Boston College team, the Seminoles found a way, along with some spirited Eagle play, to find themselves fighting for the win at the games end.  With each team having missed field goals late, Jameis Winston led the Seminoles on a game winning drive, with Roberto Aguayo connecting on a 27 yards field goal with just three seconds left to give the 'Noles the win on a cold, rainy late afternoon.

Before the kickoff, a special event occurred as Burt Reynolds, the famed actor and former Florida State halfback, planted the spear received from Chief Osceola at midfield.  It was great to see Burt, whom I affectionately refer to as The Bandit.  Burt has always been a great ambassador for Florida State.

Burt Reynolds

While there are some outstanding seniors well worth recognizing, as FSU did prior to kickoff on Senior Day, perhaps the most notable was record breaking receiver Rashad Greene.  Greene has been stellar performer on the field since he arrived on campus, and will go down as one of the greatest players at FSU.

FSU Wide Receiver Rashad Greene

Like Miami a week earlier, Boston College brought a great game plan to Tallahassee, using a bruising running game with misdirection to eat clock and physically wear down the Seminoles. Behind their solid offensive line and some stout quarterback play, the Eagles forced the Seminoles to play their game.  The conditions did not help the Seminoles, as the final three quarters were played in a driving rain, with temps in the 50's.  I think I am still wet.  But, the Seminoles defense stepped up when necessary, and Winston and the offense drove the field as time was expiring to win the dadgum ball game.  We all know these types of heroics will eventually doom the Seminoles, but for now, FSU remains the unconquered.  Off a fierce road trip against the Miami Hurricanes and before a visit from the arch rival Florida Gators, FSU was in perfect position to get tripped up by a physical well coached team off a bye week in Boston College.  But FSU found a way, again, to win.  Florida is up and down, but they will be playing hard for fired head coach Will Muschamp, whom the players adore.  The Gator team that walloped Georgia will be the team that shows up at DOAK Saturday, so FSU should have notice served that they will have to be at their best to secure victory.  The last time UF showed up in Tally after firing their coach, the Gators won one for the Zooker. The Seminoles have yet to come close to fully reaching their potential by playing their best game.  Saturday against the Gators seems like the perfect time to break loose.  East bound and down, watch ole Bandit run!

All Bark; No Bite

The Nebraska Cornhuskers had by all accounts a difficult season in 2013.

Injuries took a major toll with losing All Big Ten quarterback Taylor Martinez for the season a few weeks in, along with All America guard Spencer Long halfway through. A young defensive unit failed to jell throughout most of the season, and the fundamental principle of protecting the football remained elusive for the Big Red.  Calls were made for changes of the coaching staff, including head coach Bo Pelini.

After a inexcusable home loss to Iowa to close the season, the Cornhuskers were invited to the TaxSlayer.com Gator Bowl to face the Georgia Bulldogs, themselves injury stricken in 2013, for a rematch of the 2013 Capital One Bowl in Orlando, which the Bulldogs won late 45-31.

The game seemed a downer for both squads given expectations, but Jacksonville, provides a festive atmosphere and a great environment for bowling teams and their fan base, although much closer in proximity for the traveling Junkyard Dawgs.

The weather was suspect, about 55 degrees with intermittent rain showers, and the crowd was very light.  That did not stop us from participating in all the fanfare, inclusive of hanging out with the Husker cheer squad hours before kickoff.

Pre-Game Husker Cheer Pep Rally

Although Georgia was without senior quarterback Aaron Murray, among others, the Bulldogs did have back almost healthy running back Todd Gurley, who has a Sunday career in front of him.  In addition, most felt the Bulldogs had superior talent and should win the game by about 10 points.

But the Cornhuskers seemed in control right from the beginning, with strong running from Ameer Abdullah and sound decision making from freshman quarterback Tommy Armstrong II.  After almost fumbling deep in Big Red territory, which would have been game changing, Armstrong II dropped back and found Qunicy Enunwa on a 99 yard touchdown pass, which was ultimately the game winner.



Nebraska held Georgia late, stopping them on downs in the red zone to preserve the victory as Nebraska defeated Georgia 24-19, a win that saw the Bulldogs manage only one touchdown.  Kicking field goals will get you beat, as Mark Richt and Georgia found out.

It was a strong effort for the Big Red, enhanced by winning the turnover battle, one in which Nebraska usually fails miserably at.  Given the wet field conditions, this was extremely important. 

This was a much needed win for seemingly embattled coach Bo Pelini, and those within the Big Red program.  For a young team, this win offers a cornerstone to build upon entering 2014, where continued improvement can lead to an opportunity to win the conference title and perhaps challenge for national honors.

Although it was wet and cold, it was a great experience to be there to see Nebraska break a string of bowl losses dating back to defeating Clemson on the same field on January, 1, 2009.  Much of football is mental, from the coaches to the players, and this game gave the Big Red a glimpse of what can be possible, playing and defeating a top team from the SEC, perceived to be the best.

Nebraska finishes the season 9-4.  Preparation for the 2014 can begin with an advantage in mentality, a visualization of success that help a young team aim for and reach higher goals.  With a mental advantage, sometimes the bark of your opponent does not match their bite.

Decisions of Risk

Bo Pelini
Photo/ngngsports.com

Nebraska has lost yet another game which is deemed unacceptable.  There is a tradition of winning, competitiveness and sportsmanship around this program, which seems to be sifting from the grasp of the current coaching staff.

I had previously written that Bo Pelini would need to win out after the Minnesota road loss to save his job, and he did not.

The Husker fan base suffers a major divide on whether Pelini should be retained, and the media, most notably some of the Omaha World Herald staff, some Omaha radio personalities who are also playing favorites in this case and former Husker great Tommie Frazier.

Bleacher Report compiled a list of the pros and cons regarding his status.

I must admit I am very conflicted on this. I could do a punt counter punt all day long.

On the positive side of the ledger, the players love Bo and he does many things well. The program is clean, the academics are good and not withstanding the losses, there have been more wins.  In addition, the team is young and the future appears bright.

On the negative side, first of all firing him would be a huge financial blow to UNL in poor economic conditions. The injuries, particularly to Martinez, were significant in 2013. The most fundamental principle of the game, protecting the football, remains elusive under Bo.  As a defensive guru, there are mind boggling glaring issues with respect to formation, physicality and adjustments that are present.

Pelini stated he was comfortable with what his staff has accomplished, but I can assure you I am not only uncomfortable, but embarrassed, by getting whipped by the likes of Minnesota and Iowa, another home loss. 

At the end of the day, I would have him continue as coach at this time, but would need newly established goals to be met moving forward. There is quite a bit of young talent on the squad. An announcement one way or the other should come promptly, for the uncertainty is significantly damaging recruiting.

It did, as AD Shawn Eichorst released a statement which said Pelini would continue as coach.

There is a strong element of the fan base that is horrified at this decision.  Tom Shatel at The Omaha World Herald comments, and Mitch Sheman, at ESPN, formerly with the OWH and not a Pelini fan, did a piece at ESPN.com.

Ohters, think Eichorst was not clear, and that Pelini is still going to be terminated.

After the Eichorst statement, Pelini released a statement of thanks and apology.

The bowl game will present an opportunity for the future for Pelini and his relationship with this university, and 2014 will be a season where measurable gains, from conduct on the field to performance on it, will need to be obtained. 

We will all be watching.

The Color & Pageantry Top 25

College Football

Top 25

1.     Stanford,  2-0, 1
2.     Alabama, 2-0, 2
3.     Oregon, 3-0, 3
4.     Clemson, 2-0, 4
5.     Florida State, 2-0, 5
6.     Ohio State, 3-0, 7
7.     Georgia, 1-1, 8
8.     Texas A&M, 2-1, 6
9.     Louisiana State, 3-0, 10
10.   Louisville, 3-0, 9
11.   UCLA, 2-0, 15
12.   South Carolina, 2-1, 11
13.   Oklahoma State, 3-0, 12
14.   Miami, 2-0, 14
15.   Oklahoma, 3-0, 16
16.   Northwestern, 3-0, 18
17.   Florida, 1-1, 19
18.   Washington, 2-0, 20
19.   Mississippi, 3-0, 25
20.   Baylor, 2-0, 22
21.   Michigan, 3-0, 13
22.   Notre Dame, 2-1, 23
23.   Georgia Tech, 3-0, 24
24.   Arizona State, 2-0, NR
25.   Wisconsin, 2-1, 21

OUT: Nebraska (17)

VOTES: Nebraska, Texas Tech, North Carolina, UCF, Fresno State, Virginia Tech, Michigan State, Vanderbilt, Northern Illinois.

NATIONAL ANALYSIS:  Congrats to ESPN's Lee Corso, who called the UCF upset at Penn State, although many saw UCF had a good chance behind talented quarterback Blake Bortles....Although Washington beat Illinois, the Illini played well....Ole Miss throttled a crumbling Texas, where a coaching change appears imminent.  ESPN should be ashamed of themselves for having this game on The Longhorn Network which led to nobody being able to see the game nationally.  Texas caused all this realignment mess, by forming this network, so consider my please they got their ass kicked....Terry Bowden and Akron came within inches of pulling off a earth shattering upset at Michigan... Texas A&M fell at home to Alabama in a barn burner, but it was not the fault of Johnny Football, who threw for almost 500 while running for another 100. It was the highest rated afternoon CBS game in 23 years; deservedly so....Oregon throttled visiting Tennessee, giving the Vols their worst loss since the Wilson administration... Wisconsin was robbed by the officials, in what was a simply horrendous weekend for the Zebras....South Carolina dumped Vanderbilt, but did not see much domination by Jadeveon Clowney....Texas Tech disposed of Texas Christian, and their hire of Cliff Klingsbury was outstanding....Auburn got a big home victory over Mississippi State, who can now officially be designated as descending....Minnesota coach Jerry Kill suffered another seizure on Saturday, but he will be fine.

For those who may be new readers, we offer game analysis of the two teams we have allegiance with; Florida State and Nebraska, in the order their games were played over any given weekend.

NEBRASKA ANALYSIS:

Bo Pelini without answers
/Bruce Thorson-USA TODAY Sports

As Hail Varsity so accurately described it; Passive Without the Aggressive.  Most expected the talented, but very young, Nebraska defense to suffer yardage and points to the potent UCLA offense, but very few thought the Nebraska offense would ground itself down, producing only 21 points in yet another extremely discouraging loss.  ESPN color analyst Chris Spielman made very cogent points regarding both Cornhusker units.  The offense, with all the weapons, seemed content to toss short outside passes with runs sprinkled in.  What was glaring in omission was the running of Taylor Martinez, who although throwing three touchdown passes, was pedestrian.  Martinez posses great speed and agility, and while seeking a balanced attack not relying on Martinez to carry the day, disregarding what he can do with his feet is mind boggling.  T-Magic performed no tricks, finishing with -13 yards rushing.  Recall, he had a 92 yard touchdown run last year versus the Bruins. Perhaps Martinez has a foot injury limiting his abilities, (word has it he was walking with a boot post game) which was kept from public knowledge? Who knows, but even if so, nobody stepped up in his absence.  Ameer Abdullah ran hard, but dropped the ball on the carpet at a critical moment if a comeback was in the cards on this day. Speilman, himself a Hall of Fame linebacker at every level, noted the front four on defense were not providing adequate pressure on the quarterback, placing pressure on the secondary.  At times, the rush was decent, but as time went on they had real trouble fighting off the blocks, which is troublesome.  New flash for DC Papuchis; blitz! Cornnation.com reports DE Randy Gregory said "Somebody's got to step up and be a leader, make plays, whether that's me, a DB, a quarterback, it doesn't matter. Somebody's got to step up and say something." Nobody did.  In fact, the mood was deflated on the sideline, even with Nebraska up 21-3.  You read that right; UCLA scored 38 unanswered points en route to this scorching, which is become all too commonplace. Nebraska Coach Bo Pelini correctly described the Huskers' second-half performance, across the board, as "horrendous."  I agree, and sadly, the folks employed to correct the issue only seem to inform us what we already know.  I am fond of this staff, but what transpired on Saturday is simply not acceptable. I am sadly repeating myself.  Getting beat fighting like dogs in the boneyard is one thing, but lacking focus, passion, discipline and the mentality (mistakes, penalties and ball security) to give it for 60 minutes is characteristic of poor coaching, and quite simply, this is exactly where the blame for this destructive loss lies.  Same 'ol issues, says Steven Sipple of The Lincoln Journal Star.  'Husker great Tommie "Tocuhdown" Frazier has had enough.  This Nebraska football team is not void of talent, particularly offensively, and the B1G Ten Conference championship is still within reach.  In fact, so is every goal if the stars line up.  It will interesting to see how the Big Red responds to this loss.  The coaching staff will have to correct the continual errors of basic football during the remainder of the season.  There is a new AD in charge at UNL, who has no specific ties to Bo, so if this type of thing continues, a change will likely be in the forecast.  ESPN is doing Gameday this weekend at two time defending FCS National Champion North Dakota State, where former 'Husker assistant Craig Bohl is head coach.  Tom Shatel of the Omaha World Herald pretty much sums it up; "There are nine games left — five in a decisive November — for Pelini to change the conversation. But short of winning the Big Ten, what happened Saturday will be a stain that the sixth-year coach can't wash off."

FLORIDA STATE ANALYSIS:

After weeks of fanfare after the brilliant debut of Jameis Winston on ESPN with FSU at Pitt on Labor Day night, the Seminoles opened at home in front of the faithful eager to get a personal eyeful of "Famous Jameis".  Not surprisingly, Florida State came out sleepwalking against a Nevada outfit, although decimated by injuries on the offensive side, that came to win.  Winston overthrew a receiver over the middle for his first career interception, and before long, FSU found itself behind 7-3.  It was time to wake up.  Behind a punishing ground game, Florida State took control of the game, and Winston collected himself and found his grove, tossing a pair of touchdown passes and leading FSU to a safe lead before giving way to the backups, who played well by the way.  For the year, Winston is 40-45, with six aerial scores and two rushing touchdowns, with only one interception.  Florida State has a deceptively strong running game, led on this day by Devonta Freeman and converted safety Karlos Williams, who bolted 65 yards for paydirt on his first carry.  Both Freeman and Williams had over 100 yards.  The defense is still finding itself; however, it is showing glimpses of a unit that may be smothering for opposing offenses.  Among the many young players looking good is cornerback Jalen Ramsey.  FSU will continue to work at consistency with many youngsters gaining valuable experience against Bethune Cookman on Saturday.  The season will hinge on the trip to Clemson in a month with conference games with at Boston College and with Maryland in between.

These Are The True Awards Of Manly Sport

Evil seems to be gaining strength in America, but not in Lincoln, Nebraska on Saturday.

For those of us who treat the color and pageantry of college football as a religion, there are three seasons; National Signing Day, spring practice culminating with annual spring games and the excitement of the regular season.

Although the south is rampant with this enthusiasm, many across the fruited plain are as well.  Nowhere is the support for the home team any stronger than in Lincoln, Nebraska, home of the five time national champion Nebraska Cornhuskers, who hold the record for the longest home sellout streak in the nation, continuing at over 300 even with a dismal economy.

After wicked weather postponed last seasons spring game, a day of sunshine was expected at Memorial Stadium on Saturday for the Red-White game.  For those who could be among the 60,000 who were able to attend, the game was broadcast live on The Big Ten Network.

Many fans, eager to get a glimpse of the progress of some of the young Huskers who are expected to contribute to a young team next fall, it was a youngster who stole our, and the nations, heart on this day.

Jack and Rex Burkhead

Rex Burkhead, a standout running back from Plano, Texas who exhausted his Nebraska career last year in an injury riddled senior season, had befriended a pediatric cancer patient in young Jack Hoffman.  Throughout last season, Hoffman and Burkhead forged a friendship Burkhead visiting Hoffman after treatments and with Hoffman having an opportunity to visit many practices of the Big Red.  Hoffman meant a lot to the entire team, and led the 'Huskers on to the field in a home game versus Wisconsin last fall.

But on Saturday, as the spring game was nearing conclusion, a magical event took place as Jack Hoffman got the opportunity of a lifetime.  Please see the following video:


All Big Ten quarterback Taylor Martinez re-entered the game along with Jack to run the pitch sweep to the right, and Jack Hoffman got loose.  Hoffman gave glimpse of former 'Husker greats Mike Rozier or Ahman Green breaking into the next level. 

There truly is no place like Nebraska, as BTN analyst and former 'Husker running back Damon Benning said on the broadcast, as Hoffman hit pay dirt.

I had tears in my eyes watching this live from my living room.  At the Orange Bowl in 1971, someone asked me what the "N" on my hat meant.  An Alabama fan sitting next to me replied, "Nice People."  That was very well put.

There have been many moments over the years, but I cannot recall being more proud to be a Cornhusker than I was on Saturday.

As the story has appropriately gone viral over social media and the cable news networks, many have described this touching event in outstanding fashion.  BTN, the Omaha World Herald, the Lincoln Journal Star, ESPN, The Huffington Post, The Washington Post and FOX News.

Jeffrey Koterba, cartoonist for the Omaha World Herald, gave us an overview of those in the Scarlet and Cream.

 

For those instrumental for putting this action together, inclusive of Burkhead, and via ESPN, former Husker Jeff Jamrog and current fullback CJ Zimmer, may I extend the heartfelt thanks from 'Huskers everywhere. “Obviously, Jack is a young man who has touched the hearts of a lot of people,” Husker coach Bo Pelini said. “People have got behind him and he’s become a big part of the team. … I thought it was a pretty special thing” reported the LJS.

 

The academic excellence of the football team is second to none, and while Nebraska is not quite the team they used to be under legendary coach Dr. Tom Osborne, the program is on solid footing both on, and off the field under Bo Pelini.  I saw that on Saturday.

 

But like most of America, particularly those of us fortunate enough to be fathers, the spirit of the action touched our hearts. As Lincoln Journal Star columnist Steve Sipple quipped, "The day belonged to Jack!"

 

The team coming together for Jack Hoffman on Saturday was a testament to the words engraved on the northwest corner of Memorial Stadium, Courage; Generosity; Fairness; Honor; In these are the true awards of manly sport.  

 

Engraved at the southwest corner reads "Not the victory but the action; Not the goal but the game; In the deed the glory."

 

Jack, and all those fighting these terrible diseases, exhibit courage we all can be proud of.  We all pray for their victory. The action on the field Saturday when Hoffman took the field on Saturday was a most moving gesture indeed, capturing the hearts of the nation.

 

With any luck, the extended awareness this act of kindness brought to the country on Saturday will help expedite the finding of cures for those who fight these diseases on a daily basis .  #TEAMJACK

 

There truly is no place like Nebraska.  Well done Big Red! Very well done. N #GBR

Runzaway Victory

The Nebraska Cornhuskers, reeling from getting nothing short of embarrassed in the Big Ten Championship game by Wisconsin, were selected to make a return trip to beautiful downtown Orlando to face the highly ranked Georgia Bulldogs in the Capital One Bowl.

Would Nebraska limp down and absorb another beating at the hands of Georgia, who was four yards away from facing Notre Dame in the BCS Championship?

In watching the practices, the Big Red seemed to embrace the challenge.  Kenny Bell and Taylor Martinez, although enjoying the trip, were very focused come practice time.

All the fanfare associated with the game was well attended by the fans, including a pep rally.



After a shaky start, which included a blocked punt for a safety and a touchdown pass leading Nebraska to fall behind 9-0, the Big Red seemed to be ready to win the game.  The 'Huskers led 24-23 at the half as Taylor Martinez and Rex Burkhead kept the Junkyard Dawgs off balance.



Taylor Martinez on the scramble

Nebraska stormed out of the half to build upon the lead 31-23 and were poised for more when Ameer Abdullah fumbled the ball away after securing a short yardage first down at the Georgia 39.  From the vantage point of the stands and the Husker sideline, it appeared Abdullah was down, and if he was not, Nebraska recovered the ball. The play was not reviewed, and Georgia got the ball.

From that point on, Georgia and quarterback Aaron Murray, from nearby Tampa Plant, made plays when it counted coming from behind to beat Nebraska 45-31.

There was some kind of officiating going on out there by the crew from the Big XII (really?), absent consistency and collectively perhaps the worst I have seen.  From seeing highlights of other games on the day, the Capital One Bowl was not alone in poor officiating.

 

Unlike last year, with Nebraska ahead as quarter four began, the Big Red could have won the game.  Georgia is every bit as good as advertised, and in the end, took control with their superior talent stepping up and making plays.

 

Nebraska, as usual, had plenty of offense to win the game.  The Big Red is hard to defend with a strong running attack, a fleet footed quarterback who is much better than most everyone give him credit for and a group of receivers who are quite good.  Even the much maligned offensive line performed well.

 

It is on the stop side where the problems for Nebraska begin and end.  This is the strong suit of NU Head Coach Bo Pelini; therefore, the lack of execution by this unit cannot be further tolerated.  In the 2012 losses, the highly touted Blackshirts gave up zip codes of yardage and pinball machine points.  In fact, in each of the losses, Nebraska put up over 30 points, and when you do that, you fully expect to win.

 

I happen to like the defensive staff, and maybe it is a lack of talent that is the main issue.  The secondary has been strong most of the year, but they looked awful against Aaron Murray, no RGII to be sure.  With players playing out of position, the defensive line played better than I anticipated.

 

As the Omaha World Herald points out, there is some sunshine peeking out of the clouds, and 4 loss seasons getting punked in bowl games against I don't care who are dark clouds.  The 2013 offense could be special behind Martinez and the schedule is very forgiving.  If Pelini can get a handle on the defense, and his history says he can, Nebraska may have a Rosey season.

 

If not, with Tom Osborne having retired, some real hard questions will demand answers, not time.  I am hopeful those questions will not need to be asked.

Boo Pelini

The Nebraska Cornhuskers made their first trip to Orlando for the Capital One Bowl since losing to national champion Georgia Tech 45-21 in 1990. Steve Spurrier and South Carolina from the SEC was the opponent.

Nebraska Dave and I were knee deep in pregame fanfare.









Nebraska began the game strong, scoring on the opening possession and held a 13-9 lead in the fist quarter. Although South Carolina was tough, particularly on the defensive front, the game was there for the taking.

Then came the all too familiar implosion. After fumbling at the Gamecock five heading in for a touchdown, South Carolina uncorked a bomb which resulted in a score. Then prior to the half, a Hail Mary catch made by All America receiver Alshon Jeffrey resulted in a touchdown and BOOM, the 'Huskers were down 16-13.

Nebraska moved the ball deep into Gamecock territory on each of their first four second half possessions but came away with 0 points. If you want to learn how to lose a football game, pull out this game film. Penalties, miscues, missed field goals and turnovers.

Meanwhile, with Pelini wearing out yet another poor officiating crew, South Carolina was executing their game plan. Appropriately, the Nebraska papers had some extensive commentary on this subject. So did Nebraska Dave; Boo Pelini.

The Big Red gave South Carolina every opportunity to seize control of the game, and the Gamecocks were all too happy to oblige. While the Internet was quick to throw Taylor Martinez under the bus for this loss, this is not his fault. Nebraska more than matched South Carolina in speed and there were a handful of painful drops of well placed passes, but the Cornhusker offensive line faltered down the stretch against a very strong SC defensive front which limited the offensive options. This has been an area of concern for a few years now.

The 'Huskers did not appear to be well coached for this game on either side of the ball. With the O-line getting whipped, rolling out Martinez would have been nice, as would a screen pass or three. The Blackshirts rarely applied significant pressure on an average signal caller, allowing him to hit his fleet footed receivers.

Word on the street was that Pelini was less than corrigible at the team hotel to some of those who made the trip in this horrendous economy. Combine that with performances like we saw in the Capital One Bowl, he may not be long for Lincoln.

The offense should be good in 2012, but the defense, not a bright spot in 2011, suffers heavy losses including Lavonte David, who will be impossible to replace. It is hard to imagine the 2012 Conrhuskers in the Rose Bowl, much less the national title picture.

Maybe the staff should focus on the little things, like solving on the field discipline issues, including mental collapses and penalties.

What's left in our wallet? Nothing.

The Right Decision

Many young men are coming face to face with the decision of a lifetime, one which will no doubt play a very significant role in their future. Although I don't usually like the decision, more often than not, the young men are making the right call.

Although I am a casual Major League Baseball fan, college football is my sport, a sport losing several potential All America type players to the hardball. In fact, it seems my teams, Florida State and Nebraska, were sent on a MLB caused coordinated slide.

It appears it all began when Nebraska signed a player from Houston Jefferson Davis to a national letter of intent, who was a first round MLB selection. Carl Crawford is now among the top players in Major League Baseball, moving this past year from the Tampa Bay Rays over to the Boston Red Sox. Heisman Trophy winner Chris Weinke, signed by Florida State out of Cretin-Derham Hall High School in St. Paul, MN, spent six years with the Toronto Blue Jays before returning to Florida State and winning the national championship and playing half a decade in the NFL. The Seminoles were stung again when three sport superstar Joe Mauer, remarkably out the same high school as Weinke, never enrolled at FSU, rather becoming the top player on the MLB diamond as a catcher with the hometown Minnesota Twins. While Weinke was never close to achieving the success of Crawford or Mauer on the diamond or in terms of financial compensation, he earned a nice financial foundation playing minor league ball, and post FSU in the NFL.

This year, another decision had to be made. Enter Bubba Starling, a top rated signal caller, who signed with Nebraska although he was certain to be a top draft pick in baseball. Starling was highlighted in a piece by Sports Illustrated earlier this spring. Take a look:



Like Mauer, Starling was selected by his hometown team, the Kansas City Royals, as the fifth pick in the draft. Football at the University of Nebraska or a big paycheck and a chance to play for years with the Royals, significantly lessening the chance of a career ending injury.

As you may suspect, although I think Starling really wanted to play pigskin with the Big Red, he signed on with the Kansas City Royals, reportedly signing a deal worth a guaranteed $7.5 million. Starling made the right decision no doubt. Most 'Huskers are also Royals fans, myself included, and the Royals future is bright as they have a fine young team that will no doubt be enhanced by the skills Starling possess. Starling will be joining Alex Gordon, the NCAA National Player of the Year as a senior baseballer at Nebraska in the Royals outfield.

I join Nebraska Coach Bo Pelini and Cornhuskers nationwide in wishing Bubba Starling all the best. Say Hi to George and Go Big Red!

Top 25

College Football

Top 25

1. Oregon, 10-0, 1
2. Auburn, 11-0, 2
3. Boise State, 10-0, 3
4. Texas Christian, 11-0, 4
5. Wisconsin, 10-1, 5
6. Stanford, 10-1, 8
7. LSU, 10-1, 6
8. Ohio State, 10-1, 9
9. Oklahoma State, 10-1, 9
10. Alabama, 9-2, 12
11. Michigan State, 10-1, 11
12. Arkansas, 9-2, 12
13. Virginia Tech, 9-2, 14
14. Oklahoma, 9-2, 16
15. Nebraska, 9-2, 7
16. Missouri, 9-2, 15
17. South Carolina, 8-3, 17
18. Texas A&M, 8-3, 19
19. Nevada, 9-1, 18
20. Arizona, 7-3, 23
21. North Carolina State, 8-3, NR
22. Florida State, 8-3, 25
23. Mississippi State, 7-4, 24
24. Iowa, 7-4, 21
25. Florida, 7-4, NR

OUT: Northwestern (20) & Southern Cal (22)

VOTES: Miami, West Virginia, UCF, Northwestern, Southern Miss, Southern Cal, Northern Illinois, Baylor & Hawaii.

North Carolina State got a huge victory at North Carolina behind the legs of All-ACC QB Russell Wilson.....Iowa lost at home to Ohio State, failing to meet lofty expectations for 2010 while Wisconsin continues to use a powerful running game to mash opponents....Michigan State almost lost to Purdue, but survived...Oklahoma stampeded a decent Baylor squad which got my attention...Stanford blasted Cal-Berkley and served notice....Virginia Tech dumped Miami, giving the Hokies 9 wins in a row and giving the Hurricanes another disappointing setback....Meanwhile, Boise State continues to roll along toward the BCS title game.

It has not been a good year for the officiating crews across the country. Beyond missing calls, the new helmet hit rule is out of control and is having a negative effect on the game. Unfortunately, this weekend hit a new low as my teams were on the short end the blind zebras.

First, Florida State cornerback Greg Reid, dripping wet a buck 75, blasted a Maryland wideout, deflecting the ball which was intercepted and returned for a pick six by Mike Harris. Reid was ruled with hitting a defenseless player, the touchdown (which would have put Maryland in a big hole at 17-3) was erased and Maryland was given a first down 15 yards down the field to continue a drive the Terps later scored on. Looks like a clean pop in the right chest to me. Take a look:



Later in the evening, Nebraska fell to Texas A&M at Kyle Field, home of the 12th Man. Who knew the 12th Man was the officials? First off, although the Blackshirts are among the nations best, Nebraska is not a good offensive team without a healthy Taylor Martinez. T-Magic was not healthy Saturday night, and it showed.

On this evening, however, the Big Red would nee to do more than beat Texas A&M; it would have to out fox the zebras as well. Texas A&M is among the most penalized teams in the Big XII, but finished the night with two penalties for 10 yards. Nebraska was flagged 16 times for 165 yards. Big XII officials targeting Pelini and the Big Red?

On this play, Nebraska tight end Ben Cotton was flagged for two personal fouls totalling 30 yards. Check out why Cotton, #81, was torqued and what the officials missed:



With the game tied 6-6, two pass interference calls on 3rd and 10+ kept a late A&M drive alive. Nebraska was off the field once again after a big third down stop, but safety Courtney Osborne was flagged for personal foul roughing the passer, keeping the drive alive in which A&M converted the winning field goal. Check it out:



While Florida State was able to overcome the idiocy of the officials, Nebraska with a sluggish offense was not. While the FSU call appears to have been in error, the wide disparity of calls against Nebraska, including 3 on the game winning field goal drive at Collage Station seem to be much more than a handful of errors.

I was not the greatest player back in the day, but when I got loose to zero in on the quarterback, I never had the luxury of adjusting my contact point a few inches in hopes of not injuring the player I was tackling, which was never intended.

The protection of the players has gone too far, is out of control and is affecting the outcomes of games, unless of course what I thought I saw at A&M is what I thought I saw, which I found most unfortunate. So did Tom Shatel of the Omaha World Herald.

Both the hit by FSU's Reid and Nebraska's Osborne were legal and the kind of game changing plays that win games. If you are a quarterback and don't want to be sacked, take it up with your big uglies, the coaches, get rid of the ball or get off the field. And a note to the officials at A&M: Pelini had every right to verbally assault you and as your performance was embarrassing.

Top 25

College Football

Top 25

1. Alabama 13-0, 3
2. Texas 13-0, 2
3. Texas Christian 12-0, 4
4. Cincinnati 12-0, 5
5. Florida 12-1, 1
6. Boise State 12-0. 6
7. Oregon 10-2, 8
8. Ohio State 10-2, 7
9. Penn State 10-2, 9
10. Virginia Tech 9-3, 10
11. Iowa 10-2, 11
12. Georgia Tech 11-2, 12
13. Brigham Young 10-2, 13
14. Louisiana State 9-3, 17
15. Pittsburgh 9-3, 15
16. Miami 9-3, 16
17. Nebraska 9-4, 19
18. Oregon State 8-4, 14
19. Utah 9-3, 20
20. Oklahoma State 9-3, 23
21. West Virginia 9-3, 24
22. Stanford 8-4, 25
23. Arizona 8-4, NR
24. Wisconsin 9-3, NR
25. Southern Cal 8-4, 18

OUT: Houston (22) & California (21)

VOTES: North Carolina, Houston, East Carolina, Georgia, South Carolina, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas Tech, Northwestern & Tennessee.

If I had a Heisman vote, it would go to Nebraska defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh, the most dominant lineman I have seen in decades. Go Big Suh!

There have been some fantastic finishes this year, but this one really raised the bar:


Nebraska did just about everything they had to do to dump Texas, and for 59:59, they did.

The job the Pelini brothers have done on the defensive side of the football since their return to Lincoln has been nothing short of phenomenal. The Blackshirts operate a disruptive front attacking the line of scrimmage and fly to the football and are sure handed tacklers. They are a pleasure to watch perform. If the 'Huskers had a statistically average offense, they would be no worse than 12-1 at this point. I expect to see a return visit to the Big XII title game next fall.

Cincinnati, after trailing by 21,came back to beat Pitt by executing a point after try, which Pitt failed to do moments earlier, albeit in a snowstorm....Like many, I surprised how Alabama dismantled Florida in such thorough fashion. It was a complete victory for the Crimson Tide.....West Virginia held of the Rutgers in a game impacted by the weather mentioned above. The Mounties are a young team and should be much better in 2010 and....Connecticut capped off a real tough season on and off the field by losing in the last minutes yet again, this time to USF, in the aforementioned snowstorm....The BCS is flawed, but at the end of the day I do think the Longhorns are better than TCU or Cincinnati....Hard to believe USC crumpled down the stretch like they did....Charlie Weis was indeed fired at Notre Dame and the search is already becoming a circus....Will Turner Gill end up at Kansas? I hope not as I would rather not see him in the Big XII north with Nebraska....'Husker DT Ndamukong Suh could, and should, win every defensive award he is eligible for, so clean out the trophy case in Lincoln.

2009 Nebraska Cornhuskers Preview

OFFENSE

Nebraska was fortunate in 2008 as quarterback Joe Ganz returned to lead a very efficient offensive unit while new Coach Bo Pelini could focus on what he does best, and that is defense. Shawn Watson was retained to coordinate the unit, and Nebraska is fortunate to still have him.

Ganz is gone so The 'Huskers will be breaking in a new signal caller. Zac Lee, brother of FOX Business babe Jenna Lee, seems ready and poised for a guy who has so few snaps under his belt. Lee will operate behind a veteran line, which is very deep. A powerful big back little back punch of Quentin Castille and Roy Helu has been dealt a blow as Castille has been sent packing. What a shame! Meanwhile, Helu is very good but is he durable enough to play 60 minutes? The receiving core lacks a big play guy, but there is talent on hand to emerge in Chris Brooks, Niles Paul and Menelik Holt. Nebraska has a handful of weapons in some great pass catching tight ends in Dreu Young and Mike McNeil.

DEFENSE

Pelini did wonders with this unit a year ago, and now, with everyone buying in the opportunity for the top defense in the conference is possible. The Blackshirts are back, and a central reason for this optimism is the return of All America defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh, fresh off his dismantling of Clemson and who is certain to be a top ten draft pick. Suh is extremely disruptive up front, and this allows a green but talented group of linebackers to patrol the field. Sean Fisher and Will Compton will start with Blake Lawrence and Matthew May cleaning up. The secondary lacks a clear all conference candidate, but there are solid performers in Eric Hagg, Anthony Blue, Anthony West, Ricky Thenarse and Larry Asante. Barry Turner returns from injury to join Pierre Allen as the rush ends. This group of defenders gives Pelini quite a bit of options he did not have a year ago, and I think the linebackers will be a strength while Suh dominates the line of scrimmage.

INTANGIBLES

The schedule has some difficult challenges, with a September trip to Blacksburg to meet Virginia Tech. In the conference, a home game with Oklahoma seems too tall an order. There is a Thursday night game at Missouri and a trip to Baylor, who scares me. A pair of late season road trips to Kansas and Colorado will be the deciding factor in whether Nebraska wins the north. Both games are winnable. Nebraska has been on the wrong side of the turnover margin for a few years now, and I look for that to turn around under an emphasis on the running game offensively and the attacking defense Pelini likes to employ.

HONORS CANDIDATES

Ndamukong Suh, barring inury, will be considered for the Outland, Lombardi and Bednarik trophies and win All American honors. RB Roy Helu and C Jacob Hickman could also emerge as all conference candidates and K/P Alex Henery could be among the top placekickers in the country.

NEW ARRIVALS

The one to watch here is quarterback Cody Green, who has shown a high level of maturity since arriving on campus. Should Zac Lee have problems, I doubt Pelini would have trouble turning it over to Green. With Castille gone, Rex Burkhead will get repetitions at IB, and he already has a substantial cult following. LB Chris Williams and DB Dijon Washington cold also emerge. Antonio Bell is a speedy guy at wide receiver who I think will become a real force on the offense.

FINAL ANALYSIS

Nebraska will be a better football team in 2009 than they were in 2008, but the record may not be indicative of that. Opportunities exist! Could the Big Red upset Va. Tech early on the road? Will OU be coming to town complacent? Kansas has a tough schedule so NU could lose to them and still win the north. But, don't worry, Nebraska rolls at 10-2 and plays in the Big XII title game. Next year, could be special.

GAMEDAY GALLERY