Nebraska is known for a great defense. All-Americans dot the depth chart on each level. In the secondary, it all starts with Alfonzo Dennard (5-foot-10, 205 pounds, Senior). Dennard is a pure lock-down corner. His athleticism and strength make him the premiere defensive back in the Big 10 Conference. While Dennard is dealing with a lingering leg muscle pull, that is allowing more depth to develop in early-season practices. The leadership that Dennard can pass on to the other members of the secondary will only help the development of the defense.
Ciante Evans (5-11, 185, So.) has experience from 2010 that puts him in front of the chase for the other starting cornerback spot. Andrew Green (6-0, 190, So.) has also moved into the competition for playing time since Dennard's injury. Antonio Bell (6-2, 200, Jr.) has also performed well from practice reports. Senior Lance Thorell (6-1, 200) and sophomore Dijon Washington (6-0, 190) will also add depth.
The safeties are in a strong competition for playing time. Austin Cassidy (6-1, 210, Sr.) provides solid leadership, although there are questions about his speed in the secondary. P. J. Smith (6-2, 210, Jr.) and Courtney Osborne (6-3, 200, Jr.) both have a great deal of game experience that will put them at the front of the list to be on the field for the Blackshirts. Two other players deserve a mention. Junior Justin Blatchford (6-1, 200, Jr.) has been solid to add depth at safety, while freshman Corey Cooper (6-1, 210) was known for great play last year as a redshirt on the scout team.
The secondary has been known for physical play. New coach Corey Raymond is focusing on technique to change the style of play for the defensive backs in the Big 10. That attention to detail will help a good group shine when conference play begins. Overall, the secondary will be a bright spot for the Nebraska football team in 2011. Talent and depth will keep the secondary as one of the top units in the Big 10 Conference this season. Thanks for reading, the next post will be my overall season prediction for Nebraska in 2011. Email me with your thoughts at jimdolezal@mail.com.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Monday, August 22, 2011
Three Experienced Linebackers Make it Easier for Coach Els
Ross Els is the new linebackers coach at Nebraska. He is a Lincoln native, whose father coached at Northeast High School before Ross started on his own career in coaching. Els may be new to the staff at Nebraska, but he has a veteran group of linebackers that will be ready to step up and lead the defense in 2011.
The star of the group is Lavonte David (6-foot-1, 225 pounds, Senior). David is all over the football field. His speed and explosiveness led him to set the single season record for tackles at Nebraska in 2010. He is one of the elite linebackers in the entire country. David has the physical tools to be a star, not only in the college game, but even in the professional ranks in 2012. David is a small linebacker that will use his athleticism to prove he can play at any level.
Partnering with David is Will Compton (6-2, 230, Jr.). Compton has seen a solid amount of action in his Husker career. Compton is a physical player that is more comfortable stopping the running game rather than in pass coverage. Will needs to be a strong presence for the defense to play at the level of excellence that the coaching staff expects going into Big 10 Conference play. The linebacker on the other side will be Sean Fisher (6-6, 235, Jr.). Fisher is a solid athlete as well. His speed allows Fisher to cover backs out of the backfield. Coming off a broken leg that sidelined him for all of 2010, Fisher is chomping at the bit to get back on the field in 2011.
Alonzo Whaley (6-1, 235, Jr.) was a role player in 2010 that will likely see more action against the physical offenses of the Big 10 this season. Freshman David Santos (6-0, 205) is a player that the coaches have been excited about that may surprise some people and find some game action.
This is a solid group. The linebackers will be on the field more than in the last couple of seasons of Big 12 play. Teams like Missouri and Oklahoma spread defenses out, while new opponents like Wisconsin and Iowa will try and play more smash-mouth football than the Huskers have faced recently. The starters have ability but depth is a question. If these players gain confidence, the sky is the limit. There will be a few ups and downs, but overall the linebackers will rise to the occasion in 2011.
The star of the group is Lavonte David (6-foot-1, 225 pounds, Senior). David is all over the football field. His speed and explosiveness led him to set the single season record for tackles at Nebraska in 2010. He is one of the elite linebackers in the entire country. David has the physical tools to be a star, not only in the college game, but even in the professional ranks in 2012. David is a small linebacker that will use his athleticism to prove he can play at any level.
Partnering with David is Will Compton (6-2, 230, Jr.). Compton has seen a solid amount of action in his Husker career. Compton is a physical player that is more comfortable stopping the running game rather than in pass coverage. Will needs to be a strong presence for the defense to play at the level of excellence that the coaching staff expects going into Big 10 Conference play. The linebacker on the other side will be Sean Fisher (6-6, 235, Jr.). Fisher is a solid athlete as well. His speed allows Fisher to cover backs out of the backfield. Coming off a broken leg that sidelined him for all of 2010, Fisher is chomping at the bit to get back on the field in 2011.
Alonzo Whaley (6-1, 235, Jr.) was a role player in 2010 that will likely see more action against the physical offenses of the Big 10 this season. Freshman David Santos (6-0, 205) is a player that the coaches have been excited about that may surprise some people and find some game action.
This is a solid group. The linebackers will be on the field more than in the last couple of seasons of Big 12 play. Teams like Missouri and Oklahoma spread defenses out, while new opponents like Wisconsin and Iowa will try and play more smash-mouth football than the Huskers have faced recently. The starters have ability but depth is a question. If these players gain confidence, the sky is the limit. There will be a few ups and downs, but overall the linebackers will rise to the occasion in 2011.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
This Husker defense never rests
The Blackshirts. That is all one has to say to a Nebraska football fan and they think defense. Like the Masters golf tournament, this is a tradition unlike any other. The pride that Husker players, coaches, and fans take in the defense is legendary. In 2011 the defense starts the season somewhat ahead of the offense. The talent is there on every level, the coaching expertise is unquestionable. Now it is time to play. Let's start the defensive preview series by breaking down the defensive line.
Up front the Blackshirts have a star in defensive tackle Jared Crick (6-feet-6, 285 pounds, Senior). Crick is a powerhouse and a warrior. His combination of strength with speed creates havoc for opposing offenses. Crick came on the scene as a sophomore and has been an impact player since he received his first playing time. Jared has the talent to also move outside at times to play on the defensive end which can create problems for the opponents offensive line. He played in high school for the Cozad Haymakers and may get a haymaker or two in on an offensive lineman in a game.
Next to Crick is Baker Steinkuhler (6-6, 290, Jr.). Baker has been in the trenches before and now appears ready to step up and take his game to another level. His continued solid play has allowed Nebraska to develop depth in players like Terrence Moore (6-3, 290, Sr.) and Thaddeus Randle (6-1, 300, So.). A pair of redshirt freshmen also will be in the mix up front. Look for Chase Rome (6-3, 295) and Jay Guy (6-1, 295) to compete for playing time and to add depth at defensive tackle.
The defensive end spots are more wide open at this time. One side is led by Cameron Meredith (6-4, 260, Jr.). Barring something unexpected, Meredith will start the opener at one defensive end position. He has shown flexibility to pass rush off the end and yet keep containment on plays that go outside on the flanks of the defense. Meredith can be a star player in 2011. On the other side several players are battling to start and contribute. Jason Ankrah (6-4, 265, So.) showed flashes last season and will have an opportunity to be on the field in 2011. Eric Martin (6-2, 260, Jr.) is becoming a pass rushing specialist after moving last season from the linebacker position. Martin will also continue to play a key role on special teams covering kickoffs and punts. Josh Williams (6-4, 260, Jr.) is in the hunt to play a great deal at defensive end as is Joseph Carter (6-5, 250, Jr.) and Kevin Thomsen (6-2, 245, Sr.) who played a key role in late season action for the Big Red in 2010.
The cupboard is not bare along the defensive front. Nebraska has star talent on the line. Depth has been developed where the Huskers should have a key advantage against almost any team in the country. This will be a fun group to watch on game days that will lead the Big Red to a lot of victories in 2011. As always thanks for reading, and let me know what your thoughts are. Next time I will take a deep look at the Husker linebacker corps.
Up front the Blackshirts have a star in defensive tackle Jared Crick (6-feet-6, 285 pounds, Senior). Crick is a powerhouse and a warrior. His combination of strength with speed creates havoc for opposing offenses. Crick came on the scene as a sophomore and has been an impact player since he received his first playing time. Jared has the talent to also move outside at times to play on the defensive end which can create problems for the opponents offensive line. He played in high school for the Cozad Haymakers and may get a haymaker or two in on an offensive lineman in a game.
Next to Crick is Baker Steinkuhler (6-6, 290, Jr.). Baker has been in the trenches before and now appears ready to step up and take his game to another level. His continued solid play has allowed Nebraska to develop depth in players like Terrence Moore (6-3, 290, Sr.) and Thaddeus Randle (6-1, 300, So.). A pair of redshirt freshmen also will be in the mix up front. Look for Chase Rome (6-3, 295) and Jay Guy (6-1, 295) to compete for playing time and to add depth at defensive tackle.
The defensive end spots are more wide open at this time. One side is led by Cameron Meredith (6-4, 260, Jr.). Barring something unexpected, Meredith will start the opener at one defensive end position. He has shown flexibility to pass rush off the end and yet keep containment on plays that go outside on the flanks of the defense. Meredith can be a star player in 2011. On the other side several players are battling to start and contribute. Jason Ankrah (6-4, 265, So.) showed flashes last season and will have an opportunity to be on the field in 2011. Eric Martin (6-2, 260, Jr.) is becoming a pass rushing specialist after moving last season from the linebacker position. Martin will also continue to play a key role on special teams covering kickoffs and punts. Josh Williams (6-4, 260, Jr.) is in the hunt to play a great deal at defensive end as is Joseph Carter (6-5, 250, Jr.) and Kevin Thomsen (6-2, 245, Sr.) who played a key role in late season action for the Big Red in 2010.
The cupboard is not bare along the defensive front. Nebraska has star talent on the line. Depth has been developed where the Huskers should have a key advantage against almost any team in the country. This will be a fun group to watch on game days that will lead the Big Red to a lot of victories in 2011. As always thanks for reading, and let me know what your thoughts are. Next time I will take a deep look at the Husker linebacker corps.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Not Running on Empty
Years ago there was a song that Jackson Browne put out titled "Running on Empty." Yes I know I am showing my age, but this is an appropriate description for the Nebraska running backs in 2011. The Huskers have two proven leaders at running back this season and three untested freshman that must compete hard for the Big Red to be at the front of the Big 10 Conference race this season.
Nebraska fans know about Rex Burkhead (5-11, 210, Jr.). The heart and soul of the Husker running game, Burkhead has the ability to do it all. He has solid leadership skills. Burkhead is a tough inside runner that also catches the ball well. While Rex has not shown a great deal of breakaway speed, he gets the key yards and protects the football. Burkhead is a focal point of the offense. Even with his smaller size, he handles contact and can punish defenders. In 2010 he showed his versatility by also giving the Big Red flexibility by being able to shine as a quarterback in the Wildcat formation. "Superman" as he is known in his hometown of Plano, Texas has the intangibles to lead an otherwise young group of I-backs.
Three freshmen will battle for time at the I-back spot with Burkhead. Braylon Heard (5-11, 180) is a home-run hitter on the football field. He possesses the speed and quickness to go the length of the field every time he touches the ball. Aaron Green (5-11, 190) is the most hyped freshman to come to Nebraska for the 2011 season. He will definitely be a factor in the chase for playing time in the backfield. Ameer Abdullah (5-9, 180) may be the smallest of the new backs, but reports are that he performed well this summer and has been impressive in early-season drills. The Alabama product was a great pick up late in the recruiting season. These three young players may also see time in the return game.
A couple of veterans must also be mentioned. Fullback Tyler Legate (5-10, 235, Sr.) is a tough throwback Nebraska fullback that is a fan favorite. Tyler is solid as a lead blocker and can catch the ball out of the backfield. Sophomore C. J. Zimmerer (6-0, 235) will provide depth at the fullback spot. Senior I-back Austin Jones (5-10, 210) has stood out in preseason practices according to Coach Bo Pelini and he may surprise fans who have seen Jones only as a backup the last few seasons.
The Nebraska running game may look different this year than in the past. Fans will have to learn some new names and some new numbers, but the talent remains at a very high level. Leadership from veterans can really help this group make the Huskers a solid offense in 2011. This group will not run out of gas when they hit the accelerator in 2011.
The defensive preview is coming next. I will look at the defensive line, linebackers and secondary in separate posts this week. One week from today will be my season preview blog and then read my weekly look at each Nebraska opponent. You can always e-mail me at jimdolezal@mail.com with your thoughts. Thanks for reading Going Deep with Doze.
Nebraska fans know about Rex Burkhead (5-11, 210, Jr.). The heart and soul of the Husker running game, Burkhead has the ability to do it all. He has solid leadership skills. Burkhead is a tough inside runner that also catches the ball well. While Rex has not shown a great deal of breakaway speed, he gets the key yards and protects the football. Burkhead is a focal point of the offense. Even with his smaller size, he handles contact and can punish defenders. In 2010 he showed his versatility by also giving the Big Red flexibility by being able to shine as a quarterback in the Wildcat formation. "Superman" as he is known in his hometown of Plano, Texas has the intangibles to lead an otherwise young group of I-backs.
Three freshmen will battle for time at the I-back spot with Burkhead. Braylon Heard (5-11, 180) is a home-run hitter on the football field. He possesses the speed and quickness to go the length of the field every time he touches the ball. Aaron Green (5-11, 190) is the most hyped freshman to come to Nebraska for the 2011 season. He will definitely be a factor in the chase for playing time in the backfield. Ameer Abdullah (5-9, 180) may be the smallest of the new backs, but reports are that he performed well this summer and has been impressive in early-season drills. The Alabama product was a great pick up late in the recruiting season. These three young players may also see time in the return game.
A couple of veterans must also be mentioned. Fullback Tyler Legate (5-10, 235, Sr.) is a tough throwback Nebraska fullback that is a fan favorite. Tyler is solid as a lead blocker and can catch the ball out of the backfield. Sophomore C. J. Zimmerer (6-0, 235) will provide depth at the fullback spot. Senior I-back Austin Jones (5-10, 210) has stood out in preseason practices according to Coach Bo Pelini and he may surprise fans who have seen Jones only as a backup the last few seasons.
The Nebraska running game may look different this year than in the past. Fans will have to learn some new names and some new numbers, but the talent remains at a very high level. Leadership from veterans can really help this group make the Huskers a solid offense in 2011. This group will not run out of gas when they hit the accelerator in 2011.
The defensive preview is coming next. I will look at the defensive line, linebackers and secondary in separate posts this week. One week from today will be my season preview blog and then read my weekly look at each Nebraska opponent. You can always e-mail me at jimdolezal@mail.com with your thoughts. Thanks for reading Going Deep with Doze.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
The Magic Man and his Band of Followers
Nebraska fans often have the same question. "Who is going to be the quarterback?"
Well I think that fans of the Huskers have a very good idea of who the starting quarterback is going to be for the Big Red in 2011. Without an injury or suspension, it appears that Taylor Martinez (6-feet-1, 200 pounds, Sophomore) is going to be behind center when Nebraska takes the first offensive snap against Tennessee Chattanooga. Martinez has the quickness to score from anywhere on the field. His burst is like few athletes I have ever seen. Often last season T-Magic was at full speed in only two steps and pulling away from defenders for huge runs. Martinez also showed the ability to throw the ball down the field with big plays in early season wins over Washington and Oklahoma State. The downside was that Martinez did not adjust well after defenses made changes in their attacks to account for his big-play ability. Also his leadership of an otherwise veteran team as a freshman may have damaged the team chemistry in 2010. Combine this with injury woes and it led to a disappointing end to the 2010 season for the Nebraska football team.
The backup quarterbacks for the Big Red have almost no game experience. Freshman Brion Carnes (6-1, 200) redshirted last season. There are a lot of good reports about his play a year ago with the scout team. Jamal Turner (6-1, 180, Fr.) will likely see the field as a receiver or return man rather than at quarterback. Ron Kellogg III (6-1, 215, So.) has shown a good arm in practice, but he is not likely to see much action in games.
Many Nebraska fans wanted to see what Bubba Starling could do as an athlete at quarterback for the Huskers. Now that he has signed with the Kansas City Royals baseball team we will likely never know. The key to good quarterback play for the Big Red this season is to keep Martinez healthy, increase his confidence and provide Carnes and Turner with some game action so they can be ready if called upon. I believe Martinez will become a leader on the team in 2011 and the quarterbacks as a group will help Nebraska to a solid season.
Thanks for reading Going Deep with Doze. Email me any questions or thoughts you have at jimdolezal@mail.com.
Well I think that fans of the Huskers have a very good idea of who the starting quarterback is going to be for the Big Red in 2011. Without an injury or suspension, it appears that Taylor Martinez (6-feet-1, 200 pounds, Sophomore) is going to be behind center when Nebraska takes the first offensive snap against Tennessee Chattanooga. Martinez has the quickness to score from anywhere on the field. His burst is like few athletes I have ever seen. Often last season T-Magic was at full speed in only two steps and pulling away from defenders for huge runs. Martinez also showed the ability to throw the ball down the field with big plays in early season wins over Washington and Oklahoma State. The downside was that Martinez did not adjust well after defenses made changes in their attacks to account for his big-play ability. Also his leadership of an otherwise veteran team as a freshman may have damaged the team chemistry in 2010. Combine this with injury woes and it led to a disappointing end to the 2010 season for the Nebraska football team.
The backup quarterbacks for the Big Red have almost no game experience. Freshman Brion Carnes (6-1, 200) redshirted last season. There are a lot of good reports about his play a year ago with the scout team. Jamal Turner (6-1, 180, Fr.) will likely see the field as a receiver or return man rather than at quarterback. Ron Kellogg III (6-1, 215, So.) has shown a good arm in practice, but he is not likely to see much action in games.
Many Nebraska fans wanted to see what Bubba Starling could do as an athlete at quarterback for the Huskers. Now that he has signed with the Kansas City Royals baseball team we will likely never know. The key to good quarterback play for the Big Red this season is to keep Martinez healthy, increase his confidence and provide Carnes and Turner with some game action so they can be ready if called upon. I believe Martinez will become a leader on the team in 2011 and the quarterbacks as a group will help Nebraska to a solid season.
Thanks for reading Going Deep with Doze. Email me any questions or thoughts you have at jimdolezal@mail.com.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Who catches on for the Big Red?
I hope you like the new look for Going Deep With Doze. It is time to take a look at who will be a factor when Nebraska tries to stretch the defense with the passing game. With a strong running game that the Huskers appear to have in 2011, the play-action passing attack could really open up some opportunities for the offense.
Nebraska has a pair of proven commodities at the receiver spots. First is wide receiver Brandon Kinnie (6-feet-3, 225 pounds, Senior). Kinnie really developed as the season moved on in 2010. He is a strong receiver that can go across the middle, take the ball away from a defensive back in traffic and crush a corner to spring a long run for the I-back. Brandon also shows good leadership qualities to a group of receivers that otherwise are fairly inexperienced.
The other top talent in the passing game is tight end Kyler Reed (6-3, 230, Jr.). Reed is a difficult matchup for a safety and a total mismatch for a linebacker in down field pass coverage. He really gets open down the seam of the defense that often leads to big plays. Reed reminds me of Matt Herian, the former Husker that was a favorite big-play target for Jammal Lord in 2002. Ben Cotton (6-6, 255, Jr.) can be a devastating blocker on the end of sweeps and catches the ball well for a man with good size. Jake Long (6-4, 240, So.) may also contribute at tight end.
The rest of the wide receivers will fight it out for playing time. Veterans like Tim Marlowe (5-10, 175, Jr.) and Khiry Cooper (6-2, 195, Jr.) will battle with players like Quincy Enunwa (6-2, 210, So.), Stanley Jean-Baptiste (6-3, 220, So.) and explosive freshman Jamal Turner (6-1, 180) for precious playing time. These players and a couple more on the depth chart must learn Tim Beck's new offensive system quickly if Nebraska is to be a more balanced and effective offensive team in 2011.
The receivers must be aggressive blockers and yet be speed demons running through the secondary of the opponents. The dual threat of good size with quickness always makes a defense nervous. This group of largely untested Huskers will have to be ready for battles by the time Big 10 Conference play comes along. I think this group will come along slowly, but can make a difference to the team late in the year. Let me know what your thoughts are in the comments section of the blog. Thanks as always for reading.
Nebraska has a pair of proven commodities at the receiver spots. First is wide receiver Brandon Kinnie (6-feet-3, 225 pounds, Senior). Kinnie really developed as the season moved on in 2010. He is a strong receiver that can go across the middle, take the ball away from a defensive back in traffic and crush a corner to spring a long run for the I-back. Brandon also shows good leadership qualities to a group of receivers that otherwise are fairly inexperienced.
The other top talent in the passing game is tight end Kyler Reed (6-3, 230, Jr.). Reed is a difficult matchup for a safety and a total mismatch for a linebacker in down field pass coverage. He really gets open down the seam of the defense that often leads to big plays. Reed reminds me of Matt Herian, the former Husker that was a favorite big-play target for Jammal Lord in 2002. Ben Cotton (6-6, 255, Jr.) can be a devastating blocker on the end of sweeps and catches the ball well for a man with good size. Jake Long (6-4, 240, So.) may also contribute at tight end.
The rest of the wide receivers will fight it out for playing time. Veterans like Tim Marlowe (5-10, 175, Jr.) and Khiry Cooper (6-2, 195, Jr.) will battle with players like Quincy Enunwa (6-2, 210, So.), Stanley Jean-Baptiste (6-3, 220, So.) and explosive freshman Jamal Turner (6-1, 180) for precious playing time. These players and a couple more on the depth chart must learn Tim Beck's new offensive system quickly if Nebraska is to be a more balanced and effective offensive team in 2011.
The receivers must be aggressive blockers and yet be speed demons running through the secondary of the opponents. The dual threat of good size with quickness always makes a defense nervous. This group of largely untested Huskers will have to be ready for battles by the time Big 10 Conference play comes along. I think this group will come along slowly, but can make a difference to the team late in the year. Let me know what your thoughts are in the comments section of the blog. Thanks as always for reading.
Monday, August 15, 2011
Winning for Nebraska starts up front
The Nebraska Cornhuskers will be as good as their line play in the 2011 season. In my mind the biggest question mark for the Big Red is the play of the offensive line. If the line has good chemistry and depth, then 2011 can close the season with games in Indianapolis and Pasadena. On the other hand, if the offensive line has the injury and cohesiveness issues of the last few seasons then the 2011 season will likely end with a game against Iowa and a low-tier bowl game.
The Nebraska offensive line will be led by center Mike Caputo (6-feet-1, 275 pounds, Senior). Caputo is a little undersized, but with 14 career starts, his leadership will be critical to the Huskers. Cole Pensick (6-2, 275, So.) and Ryne Reeves (6-3, 300, Fr.) provide depth behind Caputo.
The tackle spot has some good experience in returning starter Jeremiah Sirles (6-6, 320, So.) and Marcel Jones (6-7, 320, Sr.). Yoshi Hardrick (6-7, 320, Sr.) has dropped 30 pounds in the off season which may mean that he can contribute more consistently than he did in 2010. Sophomore Brent Qvale (6-7, 320) and freshman Tyler Moore (6-6, 290) also add depth at the tackle spots.
The mix at the guard positions is more of a question mark. Sophomore Andrew Rodriguez (6-6, 325) needs to step up for a pipeline to develop like during the 1990's in Lincoln. The Aurora product has the physical skills to become a star. Brandon Thompson (6-6, 300, Jr.) will also be a factor at guard. Freshman Jake Cotton (6-6, 295) is also getting a very strong look at the position. Ryan Klachko (6-4, 285, Fr.) may be a contributor that fans are not aware of yet.
When the offensive line comes together the 2011 Nebraska football team can be strong. Even with all the injuries up front in 2010, the Huskers were only 84 yards rushing from having three backs over 1,000 yards on the season. Confidence will need to develop quickly. If that occurs, the possibilities are boundless for the Big Red.
The Nebraska offensive line will be led by center Mike Caputo (6-feet-1, 275 pounds, Senior). Caputo is a little undersized, but with 14 career starts, his leadership will be critical to the Huskers. Cole Pensick (6-2, 275, So.) and Ryne Reeves (6-3, 300, Fr.) provide depth behind Caputo.
The tackle spot has some good experience in returning starter Jeremiah Sirles (6-6, 320, So.) and Marcel Jones (6-7, 320, Sr.). Yoshi Hardrick (6-7, 320, Sr.) has dropped 30 pounds in the off season which may mean that he can contribute more consistently than he did in 2010. Sophomore Brent Qvale (6-7, 320) and freshman Tyler Moore (6-6, 290) also add depth at the tackle spots.
The mix at the guard positions is more of a question mark. Sophomore Andrew Rodriguez (6-6, 325) needs to step up for a pipeline to develop like during the 1990's in Lincoln. The Aurora product has the physical skills to become a star. Brandon Thompson (6-6, 300, Jr.) will also be a factor at guard. Freshman Jake Cotton (6-6, 295) is also getting a very strong look at the position. Ryan Klachko (6-4, 285, Fr.) may be a contributor that fans are not aware of yet.
When the offensive line comes together the 2011 Nebraska football team can be strong. Even with all the injuries up front in 2010, the Huskers were only 84 yards rushing from having three backs over 1,000 yards on the season. Confidence will need to develop quickly. If that occurs, the possibilities are boundless for the Big Red.
Friday, August 12, 2011
Husker Stumper for August 12, 2011
Cory Schlesinger scored the winning touchdown in the 1995 Orange Bowl for Nebraska over Miami.
Tonight's Husker Stumper is: What sport did Ndamukong Suh excel in as a child? Your clue is his father played for the national team of Cameroon in this sport as well.
Post your answers in the comments. This weekend look for more position analysis of the 2011 Nebraska football team. Thanks for Going Deep With Doze.
Tonight's Husker Stumper is: What sport did Ndamukong Suh excel in as a child? Your clue is his father played for the national team of Cameroon in this sport as well.
Post your answers in the comments. This weekend look for more position analysis of the 2011 Nebraska football team. Thanks for Going Deep With Doze.
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Husker Stumper for Wednesday, August 11 2011
Yesterday I wanted to know who holds the Nebraska record for longest touchdown run?
The answer is Eric Crouch with a 95-yard run against Missouri in 2001.
Tonight's question is what Husker scored the winning touchdown to defeat Miami in the 1995 Orange Bowl?
Thanks for checking the blog and post your guesses in the comments. You can always email me, the address is jimdolezal@mail.com.
The answer is Eric Crouch with a 95-yard run against Missouri in 2001.
Tonight's question is what Husker scored the winning touchdown to defeat Miami in the 1995 Orange Bowl?
Thanks for checking the blog and post your guesses in the comments. You can always email me, the address is jimdolezal@mail.com.
2011 Nebraska special teams preview
First up is a look at special teams.The kicking game makes a tremendous difference in football. Field position is often dictated by how strong a team is kicking off, punting, and in the return game.
In 2011 Nebraska will be young on special teams. Brett Maher, (6-feet, 185 pounds, Junior) from Kearney will likely be the punter for the Big Red. He has almost no game experience, except as a holder. Maher was solid in the spring handling kickoff, punting, and placekicking duties.
Freshman Mauro Bondi (6-0, 190) is a possibility to come off his high school field in Florida and may win the job as a field goal and kickoff specialist for the Huskers. Since Bondi is untested, his ability to contribute is an unknown going into the season.
Several players may play a role in the return game. Tim Marlowe (5-10, 175, Jr.) gives good experience to the Big Red as a kickoff return man. Freshmen that will get a look as returners include Jamal Turner (6-1, 180), Ameer Abdullah (5-9, 180), Aaron Green (5-11, 190) and Braylon Heard (5-11, 180).
In the past, starters like Brandon Kinnie (6-3, 225, Sr.), and Rex Burkhead (5-11, 210, Jr.) have been key members on punt and kick returns. It is likely that these game changers will not see many opportunities on special teams to keep them fresh for the offense.
Austin Cassidy (6-1, 210, Sr.) is the favorite to become the holder for field goals and extra points while P. J. Mangieri (6-4, 240, Jr.) will continue as the long snapper in the kicking game.
Overall this is an area that Nebraska will need to develop talent and depth to rival the great season the Huskers had on special teams in 2010. Which players develop into contributors on special teams will make a big difference for the Big Red to be a championship team this season.
In 2011 Nebraska will be young on special teams. Brett Maher, (6-feet, 185 pounds, Junior) from Kearney will likely be the punter for the Big Red. He has almost no game experience, except as a holder. Maher was solid in the spring handling kickoff, punting, and placekicking duties.
Freshman Mauro Bondi (6-0, 190) is a possibility to come off his high school field in Florida and may win the job as a field goal and kickoff specialist for the Huskers. Since Bondi is untested, his ability to contribute is an unknown going into the season.
Several players may play a role in the return game. Tim Marlowe (5-10, 175, Jr.) gives good experience to the Big Red as a kickoff return man. Freshmen that will get a look as returners include Jamal Turner (6-1, 180), Ameer Abdullah (5-9, 180), Aaron Green (5-11, 190) and Braylon Heard (5-11, 180).
In the past, starters like Brandon Kinnie (6-3, 225, Sr.), and Rex Burkhead (5-11, 210, Jr.) have been key members on punt and kick returns. It is likely that these game changers will not see many opportunities on special teams to keep them fresh for the offense.
Austin Cassidy (6-1, 210, Sr.) is the favorite to become the holder for field goals and extra points while P. J. Mangieri (6-4, 240, Jr.) will continue as the long snapper in the kicking game.
Overall this is an area that Nebraska will need to develop talent and depth to rival the great season the Huskers had on special teams in 2010. Which players develop into contributors on special teams will make a big difference for the Big Red to be a championship team this season.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Husker Stumpers
Every day during the football season I will post a trivia question for you to answer. The name Husker Stumpers is in honor of the first Nebraska Football trivia game I ever entered on local radio.
Who holds the record for longest touchdown run in Nebraska history?
Who holds the record for longest touchdown run in Nebraska history?
Welcome to Going Deep With Doze
Hello everyone. I want to welcome you to Going Deep With Doze. I'm Jim Dolezal, a sports fan with a passion for the Nebraska Cornhuskers. My feelings for Nebraska will be shared with you here. During the football season stop here for a breakdown of every Husker football game with a preview with an in-depth look at the opponent. After the game I will give you my perspective on what happened and what it means for the rest of the season.
So why would you read Going Deep With Doze? That is a good question. Here is my background. I was born on the opening day of the 1963 Nebraska football season (Husker fan from birth you know). The joke in my family is I was born at 6:20 a.m. that day so that my parents could get me to Memorial Stadium in time for kickoff at 1:30 p.m. The Huskers defeated South Dakota State that day 58-7. I am a native of Columbus. Currently I live with my wife and son near Lincoln. I spent over twenty years writing sports for The Columbus Telegram and am now moving into the blog world. Additionally I have fifteen years experience in the radio business most of which was on the air and play by play for Three Eagles Communications in Columbus. My experience also includes time on the play by play radio team for Midland University football in Fremont.
Now that you know a little bit about me, I hope you will stay and help this blog grow. Let me know what you want to see in the blog as well. You can email me at jimdolezal@mail.com.
Thanks for stopping by Going Deep With Doze. Tell your friends. Up next here will be a preseason breakdown of each position group for the Huskers.
So why would you read Going Deep With Doze? That is a good question. Here is my background. I was born on the opening day of the 1963 Nebraska football season (Husker fan from birth you know). The joke in my family is I was born at 6:20 a.m. that day so that my parents could get me to Memorial Stadium in time for kickoff at 1:30 p.m. The Huskers defeated South Dakota State that day 58-7. I am a native of Columbus. Currently I live with my wife and son near Lincoln. I spent over twenty years writing sports for The Columbus Telegram and am now moving into the blog world. Additionally I have fifteen years experience in the radio business most of which was on the air and play by play for Three Eagles Communications in Columbus. My experience also includes time on the play by play radio team for Midland University football in Fremont.
Now that you know a little bit about me, I hope you will stay and help this blog grow. Let me know what you want to see in the blog as well. You can email me at jimdolezal@mail.com.
Thanks for stopping by Going Deep With Doze. Tell your friends. Up next here will be a preseason breakdown of each position group for the Huskers.
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