Nebraska is 3-0 on the 2011 football season. Things are not perfect, blocks are missed, the defender doesn't finish a tackle, or bites on a play-action pass. Then on a gray September Saturday a light shines on the Huskers and all is right with the world.
Let me explain. Option football is complex and simple at the same time. Offenses are looking for mismatches, getting an extra blocker on one side to spring a play, spreading the defense out and then going inside the vacated middle. Nebraska has the tools to be a good offense and it showed in Saturday's 51-38 win over Washington.
Tim Beck appeared to find an offensive rhythm calling plays. An option look play-action pass on the first play of the game looked beautiful to Husker fans. Visions of Turner Gill faking to Mark Schellen sliding a step or two with Mike Rozier available for a pitch and then a deep post pattern to an open Irving Fryar flashed through my mind. The Big Red hit a fullback trap for 36 yards. Overall 309 yards rushing with effective passing too. Only one turnover and fewer penalties than the opponent for the third straight week. These are good signs.
The defense has struggled with points and yards the last two weeks. A young secondary is growing up. Freshman Josh Mitchell is learning. Andrew Green is being tested, with some solid play and a few mistakes along the way.These youngsters are gaining experience. Leadership is needed from players like Jared Crick on the field and Alfonzo Dennard on the sideline to get through the rough patches.
A bobble on a punt and yet several good returns. Ameer Abdullah shines when he has the ball. Brett Maher has looked solid. So far Nebraska looks like a squad with talent on special teams. Potential is moving to results on the field.
Now the Huskers go on the road. Wyoming awaits. Somewhere Bob Devaney is smiling when the program he took from mediocrity to the heights of college football for most of 50 years is ready to meet opponents he knew so well like the Cowboys of Wyoming as well as Michigan and Michigan State.
No, things are not perfect, but for now, I like what I see from the 2011 Nebraska Cornhusker football team.
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Nebraska-Washington Preview and Prediction
The closest thing to a conference game on the schedule this year is today when Nebraska takes on Washington at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln. The Huskers will have seen the Huskies three times in one calendar year by the time this game is finished. Television coverage is on ABC with kickoff set for 2:37 p.m. (CDT).
Fans will remember the two games last season when Nebraska rolled the Huskies in the regular season, but Washington returned the favor with a shocking loss for the Big Red in the postseason. Today both teams are 2-0 and neither team has had an impressive win so far. Washington has slipped by with narrow wins over Eastern Washington and Hawaii. The Huskers defeated Chattanooga and Fresno State to open the 2011 season.
Washington is coached by Steve Sarkisian, who is 14-13 in his third year as a head coach. He is known as a solid offensive mind that has teams that will put up some points. The team is led by quarterback Keith Price (6-foot-1, 195 pounds, Sophomore). Price has been slowed by some knee issues that have limited his running ability in the first two games, although he has been known for his skills outside of the pocket. So far this season Price has completed 70 percent (35 of 50) of his passes with seven touchdowns and only one interception. He has averaged 208.5 yards passing per game. He is an accurate thrower that may give the Blackshirts some problems.
The receivers have big-play ability for the Huskies. Three players stand out for Washington. Jermaine Kearse (6-2, 208, Sr.) is a physical player that is a favorite target of Price. He leads the team with two touchdown receptions. Devin Aguilar (6-0, 195, Sr.) is the deep threat averaging over 23 yards per catch this season. Austin Seferian-Jenkins (6-6, 254, Fr.) has been a pleasant surprise for Husky fans at the tight end spot. He has four catches for 101 yards and a score on the year. His size may give the Husker defensive backs some issues if he gets in the open field.
The Huskies have a great running back in Chris Polk (5-11, 222, Jr.) Polk was instrumental in leading Washington to the 19-7 win over Nebraska at the end of last season. In 2011 Polk has averaged 116 yards per game with one touchdown rushing. He has a fine backup in sophomore Jesse Callier (5-10, 200). As a team Washington has averaged 149.5 yards per game on the ground this season.
Size is plentiful for Washington on the offensive line. The Huskies average over 6-4 and 303 pounds per man from tackle to tackle. The leader on the line is Senio Kelemente (6-4, 301, Sr.). Kelemente, a team captain is the only upperclassman starting for Washington. This group will need to play well if the Huskies are to pull off the upset.
Defensively Washington employs a 4-3 look with a solid player on each level of the defense. Up front, Alameda Ta'amu (6-3, 333, Sr.) is a major presence that can clog lanes in the running game. The Huskers must account for him if they are to be effective in the trenches. The Huskies have only allowed 43.5 yards rushing per game this season. The linebackers are led by Cort Dennison (6-1, 234, Sr.). His steady play keeps the Husky defense effective. Cornerback Desmond Trufant (6-0, 184, Jr.) leads the team with 15 total tackles and two interceptions this season. The secondary has given up an average of 403.5 yards passing per game against two pass happy teams. It is unlikely that the Huskers will put up those kind of statistics, but they can make it a tough day for the Washington defensive backs.
The Huskies have been solid place-kicking this season. Eric Folk(5-11, 185, Sr.) is perfect on four field goal attempts thus far including a 53-yarder. Punter Kiel Rasp (6-3, 225, Sr.) has averaged only 38.4 yards on eight punts this season. Kevin Smith (6-0, 209, So.) is a fine return man, that also gets some looks at a receiver spot, while Callier shows his quickness in the return game as well.
Nebraska needs to play with more consistency. Washington will score some points and try to establish the running game. If the Huskers take care of the football they will win this game at home. The passing game will make the difference in the Husker offense this week. Look for Nebraska to post a 35-24 win over Washington.
Thanks for reading Going Deep With Doze and look for my post game thoughts in my next posting.
Fans will remember the two games last season when Nebraska rolled the Huskies in the regular season, but Washington returned the favor with a shocking loss for the Big Red in the postseason. Today both teams are 2-0 and neither team has had an impressive win so far. Washington has slipped by with narrow wins over Eastern Washington and Hawaii. The Huskers defeated Chattanooga and Fresno State to open the 2011 season.
Washington is coached by Steve Sarkisian, who is 14-13 in his third year as a head coach. He is known as a solid offensive mind that has teams that will put up some points. The team is led by quarterback Keith Price (6-foot-1, 195 pounds, Sophomore). Price has been slowed by some knee issues that have limited his running ability in the first two games, although he has been known for his skills outside of the pocket. So far this season Price has completed 70 percent (35 of 50) of his passes with seven touchdowns and only one interception. He has averaged 208.5 yards passing per game. He is an accurate thrower that may give the Blackshirts some problems.
The receivers have big-play ability for the Huskies. Three players stand out for Washington. Jermaine Kearse (6-2, 208, Sr.) is a physical player that is a favorite target of Price. He leads the team with two touchdown receptions. Devin Aguilar (6-0, 195, Sr.) is the deep threat averaging over 23 yards per catch this season. Austin Seferian-Jenkins (6-6, 254, Fr.) has been a pleasant surprise for Husky fans at the tight end spot. He has four catches for 101 yards and a score on the year. His size may give the Husker defensive backs some issues if he gets in the open field.
The Huskies have a great running back in Chris Polk (5-11, 222, Jr.) Polk was instrumental in leading Washington to the 19-7 win over Nebraska at the end of last season. In 2011 Polk has averaged 116 yards per game with one touchdown rushing. He has a fine backup in sophomore Jesse Callier (5-10, 200). As a team Washington has averaged 149.5 yards per game on the ground this season.
Size is plentiful for Washington on the offensive line. The Huskies average over 6-4 and 303 pounds per man from tackle to tackle. The leader on the line is Senio Kelemente (6-4, 301, Sr.). Kelemente, a team captain is the only upperclassman starting for Washington. This group will need to play well if the Huskies are to pull off the upset.
Defensively Washington employs a 4-3 look with a solid player on each level of the defense. Up front, Alameda Ta'amu (6-3, 333, Sr.) is a major presence that can clog lanes in the running game. The Huskers must account for him if they are to be effective in the trenches. The Huskies have only allowed 43.5 yards rushing per game this season. The linebackers are led by Cort Dennison (6-1, 234, Sr.). His steady play keeps the Husky defense effective. Cornerback Desmond Trufant (6-0, 184, Jr.) leads the team with 15 total tackles and two interceptions this season. The secondary has given up an average of 403.5 yards passing per game against two pass happy teams. It is unlikely that the Huskers will put up those kind of statistics, but they can make it a tough day for the Washington defensive backs.
The Huskies have been solid place-kicking this season. Eric Folk(5-11, 185, Sr.) is perfect on four field goal attempts thus far including a 53-yarder. Punter Kiel Rasp (6-3, 225, Sr.) has averaged only 38.4 yards on eight punts this season. Kevin Smith (6-0, 209, So.) is a fine return man, that also gets some looks at a receiver spot, while Callier shows his quickness in the return game as well.
Nebraska needs to play with more consistency. Washington will score some points and try to establish the running game. If the Huskers take care of the football they will win this game at home. The passing game will make the difference in the Husker offense this week. Look for Nebraska to post a 35-24 win over Washington.
Thanks for reading Going Deep With Doze and look for my post game thoughts in my next posting.
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Glass Half Full or Half Empty? Looks a Little Low to Me
Nebraska won 42-29 on Saturday night against Fresno State. Some things are clear to see and some are as clear as the Los Angeles skyline in a smog alert. On the good side, the Huskers won the football game. They put up 438 yards of offense and showed big plays with lots of speed on offense. Through two games, the Big Red have really limited the penalties. The coaching staff appeared to make adjustments where the defense looked better at times and the offense could not be stopped, especially after halftime.
On the other side, Nebraska looked slow in the secondary again. The defensive backs were off of receivers, especially in nickel and dime coverages . Corey Cooper, P. J. Smith, and Courtney Osborne appear to be in the doghouse because these players hardly see the field. Their athleticism is needed to cover receivers in the open field. Perhaps players like Dijon Washington and Antonio Bell can also assert themselves to be factors in the secondary. Alfonzo Dennard healthy and on the field would be a major plus too.
The Huskers did not win the battle on either side of the line in impressive fashion Saturday night. Special teams had a major error on the first touchdown. These problems need to be handled or it may not be the kind of season a team with a top ten ranking is projected to have. Allowing any running back 169 yards against the defense is not acceptable. Robbie Rouse is not the best back the Blackshirts will see this season. Wisconsin and Michigan will show that to the Huskers as we go deeper into the season.
Quickness abounds in players like Kenny Bell, Jamal Turner , and Ameer Abdullah. Abdullah appears to be a solid runner that comes straight up the field. He is looking like the kind of player Husker fans will grow to love. So there is plenty of hope on the horizon, but the time to step up is in the next few weeks. Washington is a better team than what the Huskers have faced so far. Wyoming may pose a threat when the Big Red goes on the road. Wisconsin looks like an impressive team as well. The tests will be tough every week.
Nebraska can improve if players get after it in practice and compete for time on the field. Leaders need to come to the front and hold the squad to a high standard. The goals are still within reach, yet the effort now has to be shown for the 2011 Huskers to be a quality football team.
On the other side, Nebraska looked slow in the secondary again. The defensive backs were off of receivers, especially in nickel and dime coverages . Corey Cooper, P. J. Smith, and Courtney Osborne appear to be in the doghouse because these players hardly see the field. Their athleticism is needed to cover receivers in the open field. Perhaps players like Dijon Washington and Antonio Bell can also assert themselves to be factors in the secondary. Alfonzo Dennard healthy and on the field would be a major plus too.
The Huskers did not win the battle on either side of the line in impressive fashion Saturday night. Special teams had a major error on the first touchdown. These problems need to be handled or it may not be the kind of season a team with a top ten ranking is projected to have. Allowing any running back 169 yards against the defense is not acceptable. Robbie Rouse is not the best back the Blackshirts will see this season. Wisconsin and Michigan will show that to the Huskers as we go deeper into the season.
Quickness abounds in players like Kenny Bell, Jamal Turner , and Ameer Abdullah. Abdullah appears to be a solid runner that comes straight up the field. He is looking like the kind of player Husker fans will grow to love. So there is plenty of hope on the horizon, but the time to step up is in the next few weeks. Washington is a better team than what the Huskers have faced so far. Wyoming may pose a threat when the Big Red goes on the road. Wisconsin looks like an impressive team as well. The tests will be tough every week.
Nebraska can improve if players get after it in practice and compete for time on the field. Leaders need to come to the front and hold the squad to a high standard. The goals are still within reach, yet the effort now has to be shown for the 2011 Huskers to be a quality football team.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Nebraska takes on Fresno State
Tonight Nebraska hosts the Fresno State Bulldogs in game number two of the 2011 college football season. The 1-0 Huskers meet the 0-1 Bulldogs at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln for a 6:05 p.m. (CDT) kickoff. The game is set to be telecast on the Big 10 Network.
Fresno State lost their opener last week by a score of 36-21 against the Golden Bears of California. The Bulldogs are coached by Pat Hill, with a record of 108-72 in 15 seasons as the head coach of Fresno State. The Bulldogs are aptly named because of their scrappy style of play. They will take on any team anywhere and show up ready to play. Coach Hill instills a never give up attitude in his teams. Often they may not be the biggest dog in the fight, but they will battle any opponent until the final whistle.
Derek Carr (6-foot-3, 205 pounds, Sophomore) is the quarterback for Fresno State. His older brother David was a standout for the Bulldogs at quarterback as well. David Carr became the overall top pick in the National Football League draft by the Houston Texans after his collegiate career. Derek has some physical skills, but has very little game experience. Last week, Derek was 21 of 33 with one interception (63.6 percent) against Cal. He threw for 142 yards and one touchdown. He needs to play very well for the Bulldogs to make this a game in the second half.
The Bulldogs have a good running back in junior Robbie Rouse (5-7, 185). He led the team with 86 yards rushing and one touchdown last week. Rouse is a small back that the defense must be ready for. No other backs appear to pose a threat to the Husker Blackshirts.
The receivers are paced by Devon Wylie (5-9, 185, Sr.). He is a slot receiver that has good hands and some quickness. Rashad Evans (5-9, 190, Jr.) is also a favorite target of Derek Carr. The receivers must create space against the Nebraska secondary to make plays. This group was not overly impressive last week in the opener against Cal.
The offensive line is the strength of the Bulldogs. From tackle to tackle, Fresno State averages over 6-4 and 310 pounds. The right side is young, but the left side is anchored by senior tackle Bryce Harris (6-6, 300) with 26 career starts and junior guard Matt Hunt (6-2, 315). Center Leslie Cooper (6-4, 320, Sr.) also provides good leadership up front.
Defensively Fresno State can give up some yards. Cal gained 413 yards against the Bulldogs, including 266 yards through the air. Defensive tackle Logan Harrell (6-2, 275, Sr.) is the key for Fresno State to stop the Husker running game. The linebackers are a solid group for the Bulldogs. Kyle Knox (61, 220, Sr.) has a great deal of experience, while junior Travis Brown (6-2, 235) is a play-maker for the Bulldogs. The secondary played poorly last week and could be exploited if the Huskers open up the passing game. Isaiah Green (5-10, 180, Sr.) is the most consistent man in the Fresno State defensive backfield.
The Bulldogs are very good kicking the football. Kevin Goessling (6-0, 210, Sr.) may be the best kicker the Huskers face all season. Punter Andrew Shapiro (6-0, 190, Jr.) also performed well last week. The return men did not look consistent last week in the loss to Cal.
Nebraska needs to play better on the offensive line than they did last week. The Huskers are playing a team that is a major step up compared to last week's big victory. Fresno State may have some problems putting up points and the Big Red offense should be able to attack the Bulldog defense through the air. Nebraska needs to find a better rhythm offensively to put this game away. I think they will play well. Look for Nebraska to defeat Fresno State by a score of 34-13 Saturday night in Lincoln.
As always, thanks for reading Going Deep With Doze. Check back on Sunday for post game analysis.
Fresno State lost their opener last week by a score of 36-21 against the Golden Bears of California. The Bulldogs are coached by Pat Hill, with a record of 108-72 in 15 seasons as the head coach of Fresno State. The Bulldogs are aptly named because of their scrappy style of play. They will take on any team anywhere and show up ready to play. Coach Hill instills a never give up attitude in his teams. Often they may not be the biggest dog in the fight, but they will battle any opponent until the final whistle.
Derek Carr (6-foot-3, 205 pounds, Sophomore) is the quarterback for Fresno State. His older brother David was a standout for the Bulldogs at quarterback as well. David Carr became the overall top pick in the National Football League draft by the Houston Texans after his collegiate career. Derek has some physical skills, but has very little game experience. Last week, Derek was 21 of 33 with one interception (63.6 percent) against Cal. He threw for 142 yards and one touchdown. He needs to play very well for the Bulldogs to make this a game in the second half.
The Bulldogs have a good running back in junior Robbie Rouse (5-7, 185). He led the team with 86 yards rushing and one touchdown last week. Rouse is a small back that the defense must be ready for. No other backs appear to pose a threat to the Husker Blackshirts.
The receivers are paced by Devon Wylie (5-9, 185, Sr.). He is a slot receiver that has good hands and some quickness. Rashad Evans (5-9, 190, Jr.) is also a favorite target of Derek Carr. The receivers must create space against the Nebraska secondary to make plays. This group was not overly impressive last week in the opener against Cal.
The offensive line is the strength of the Bulldogs. From tackle to tackle, Fresno State averages over 6-4 and 310 pounds. The right side is young, but the left side is anchored by senior tackle Bryce Harris (6-6, 300) with 26 career starts and junior guard Matt Hunt (6-2, 315). Center Leslie Cooper (6-4, 320, Sr.) also provides good leadership up front.
Defensively Fresno State can give up some yards. Cal gained 413 yards against the Bulldogs, including 266 yards through the air. Defensive tackle Logan Harrell (6-2, 275, Sr.) is the key for Fresno State to stop the Husker running game. The linebackers are a solid group for the Bulldogs. Kyle Knox (61, 220, Sr.) has a great deal of experience, while junior Travis Brown (6-2, 235) is a play-maker for the Bulldogs. The secondary played poorly last week and could be exploited if the Huskers open up the passing game. Isaiah Green (5-10, 180, Sr.) is the most consistent man in the Fresno State defensive backfield.
The Bulldogs are very good kicking the football. Kevin Goessling (6-0, 210, Sr.) may be the best kicker the Huskers face all season. Punter Andrew Shapiro (6-0, 190, Jr.) also performed well last week. The return men did not look consistent last week in the loss to Cal.
Nebraska needs to play better on the offensive line than they did last week. The Huskers are playing a team that is a major step up compared to last week's big victory. Fresno State may have some problems putting up points and the Big Red offense should be able to attack the Bulldog defense through the air. Nebraska needs to find a better rhythm offensively to put this game away. I think they will play well. Look for Nebraska to defeat Fresno State by a score of 34-13 Saturday night in Lincoln.
As always, thanks for reading Going Deep With Doze. Check back on Sunday for post game analysis.
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Working for a Living
The 2011 Nebraska football team opened the season yesterday with a 40-7 win over Chattanooga. After looking at the game, it is clear that the Huskers have plenty of work to do if they are going to meet their goals for the season. Bo Pelini says Nebraska football is about winning championships, but right now questions abound about what we know and do not know for the rest of the season.
First, Nebraska is a very young football team, particularly on offense. Freshmen and sophomores are all over the line and in the backfield. With inexperience, comes mistakes. The learning curve is steep especially with Big 10 Conference play looming less than four weeks away. The speed appears to be better than the recent past, but intricacies like timing on option plays lacked in the opener. Offensive coordinator Tim Beck looked like he was searching for a rhythm offensively that never truly came into focus on Saturday. The line did not appear to block really well at the point of attack. The Mocs stacked eight and nine men in the box, which should have opened up things in the passing game. Quarterback Taylor Martinez needs to be crisper on his passes as his throws were behind a few receivers for what could have been big plays. The team is learning and things will improve later in the season.
The defense was solid. I have concerns about youthful mistakes in the secondary, and a lack of speed at the safety spots, but the talent will come to the top. I question the ability to play straight man to man defense against speed when the Huskers look a little slow at some positions in nickel and dime coverages. The defensive line looks to be as deep as any in the country. Cameron Meredith showed he can be an impact player when healthy. Carl Pelini and John Papuchis have so much depth up front that opponents will wear down against fresh Husker defenders late in games.
The kicking game was impressive. Brett Maher stepped to kick and punt very well. Ameer Abdullah showed flashes that he will grow as a quality return man.
True positives were shown in Nebraska committing only three penalties. The Huskers again had some big plays on offense and defense. The coaching staff will work on consistency. The ability is there. The fans and coaches can see it.The season is full of challenges against better teams than what the Huskers faced yesterday. Now the team has to really go to work.
First, Nebraska is a very young football team, particularly on offense. Freshmen and sophomores are all over the line and in the backfield. With inexperience, comes mistakes. The learning curve is steep especially with Big 10 Conference play looming less than four weeks away. The speed appears to be better than the recent past, but intricacies like timing on option plays lacked in the opener. Offensive coordinator Tim Beck looked like he was searching for a rhythm offensively that never truly came into focus on Saturday. The line did not appear to block really well at the point of attack. The Mocs stacked eight and nine men in the box, which should have opened up things in the passing game. Quarterback Taylor Martinez needs to be crisper on his passes as his throws were behind a few receivers for what could have been big plays. The team is learning and things will improve later in the season.
The defense was solid. I have concerns about youthful mistakes in the secondary, and a lack of speed at the safety spots, but the talent will come to the top. I question the ability to play straight man to man defense against speed when the Huskers look a little slow at some positions in nickel and dime coverages. The defensive line looks to be as deep as any in the country. Cameron Meredith showed he can be an impact player when healthy. Carl Pelini and John Papuchis have so much depth up front that opponents will wear down against fresh Husker defenders late in games.
The kicking game was impressive. Brett Maher stepped to kick and punt very well. Ameer Abdullah showed flashes that he will grow as a quality return man.
True positives were shown in Nebraska committing only three penalties. The Huskers again had some big plays on offense and defense. The coaching staff will work on consistency. The ability is there. The fans and coaches can see it.The season is full of challenges against better teams than what the Huskers faced yesterday. Now the team has to really go to work.
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Nebraska Starts the Season Dominating the Mocs
Nebraska opens play today as a member of the Big 10 Conference at home against Chattanooga. The Mocs are coached by Russ Huesman, who is 12-10 as he enters his third season as head coach. The Mocs are a member of the Football Championship Series or the FCS (formerly Division I-AA). The game is set for a 2:30 p.m. kickoff (CDT) and will be televised by the Big 10 Network (check local listings for your channel).
Chattanooga has a solid quarterback in B. J. Coleman (6-foot-5, 220 pounds, Senior). Coleman is a transfer from Tennessee that throws the ball very well. Last season he averaged over 272 yards passing, completing 56 percent of his passes. In 2010, Coleman had 26 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. He has good size with a solid arm, but is not a real threat outside of the pocket. Coleman must play well for the Mocs to stay competitive.
The receivers are the best unit for the Mocs offensively. Joel Bradford (6-0, 165, Sr.) is the top receiver. He set a school record with 1,284 yards receiving last year. He had 81 catches with eight touchdowns and averaged over 116 yards receiving per game in 2010. He is the go to guy for Coleman. Jeff Veres (5-11, 195, Jr.) is a good receiver that moves back to a flanker spot after being the team's kicker in 2010 because of injuries. The Mocs must make their living offensively through the air
The running game averaged 152 yards per game in 2010. J. J. Jackson (5-9, 200, Jr.) leads the way. A year ago Jackson had 226 yards rushing and three touchdowns. Chris Awuah (5-9, 200, Jr.) will back up Jackson. Thomas Green (6-0, 220, Sr.) is a pure blocker at fullback that will not carry the ball. This running game will not challenge the Blackshirts.
The offensive line is young and small. From tackle to tackle, the Mocs average over 6-3 and 267 pounds. The Husker defensive front will dominate this offensive line. he Mocs are strongest on the right side with Adam Miller (6-4, 275, Jr.) at tackle and Austin Wilson (6-3, 265, Jr.) at guard. Both of these lineman have some starting experience. The matchup here gives Nebraska a major advantage.
Defensively the Mocs gave up over 162 yards per game rushing, over 207 yards passing and 31.2 points per game in 2010. This is not a group the Husker offense needs to fear. Defensive end Joshua Williams (6-2, 235, Jr.) has some quickness, while nose tackle Nick Davison (6-0, 285, Sr.) is a good leader.
The linebackers are young, but senior Ryan Consiglio (6-1, 220) is the best defender. He averaged 10 tackles per game last year on the strong side. In the secondary, safety Jordan Tippit (6-0, 205, Sr.) and Chris Lewis-Harris (5-11, 175, Sr.) at corner need to make plays. Overall this is a small young defense Nebraska can exploit.
Chattanooga struggled on special teams in 2010. Freshman Nick Pollard (6-0, 180) is untested and punter Mike Hammons (5-10, 180, Sr.) averaged only 38.4 yards punting last season. Bradford is solid in the kick return game for the Mocs, but again Nebraska possesses a huge edge in special teams.
Nebraska holds all the cards in the game against Chattanooga. The Mocs will struggle and the Huskers will roll in all parts of the game. The Big Red starts slow, but gains momentum in posting a 52-17 win against Chattanooga. Thanks for reading Going Deep With Doze. Look for my post game analysis in my next post.
Chattanooga has a solid quarterback in B. J. Coleman (6-foot-5, 220 pounds, Senior). Coleman is a transfer from Tennessee that throws the ball very well. Last season he averaged over 272 yards passing, completing 56 percent of his passes. In 2010, Coleman had 26 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. He has good size with a solid arm, but is not a real threat outside of the pocket. Coleman must play well for the Mocs to stay competitive.
The receivers are the best unit for the Mocs offensively. Joel Bradford (6-0, 165, Sr.) is the top receiver. He set a school record with 1,284 yards receiving last year. He had 81 catches with eight touchdowns and averaged over 116 yards receiving per game in 2010. He is the go to guy for Coleman. Jeff Veres (5-11, 195, Jr.) is a good receiver that moves back to a flanker spot after being the team's kicker in 2010 because of injuries. The Mocs must make their living offensively through the air
The running game averaged 152 yards per game in 2010. J. J. Jackson (5-9, 200, Jr.) leads the way. A year ago Jackson had 226 yards rushing and three touchdowns. Chris Awuah (5-9, 200, Jr.) will back up Jackson. Thomas Green (6-0, 220, Sr.) is a pure blocker at fullback that will not carry the ball. This running game will not challenge the Blackshirts.
The offensive line is young and small. From tackle to tackle, the Mocs average over 6-3 and 267 pounds. The Husker defensive front will dominate this offensive line. he Mocs are strongest on the right side with Adam Miller (6-4, 275, Jr.) at tackle and Austin Wilson (6-3, 265, Jr.) at guard. Both of these lineman have some starting experience. The matchup here gives Nebraska a major advantage.
Defensively the Mocs gave up over 162 yards per game rushing, over 207 yards passing and 31.2 points per game in 2010. This is not a group the Husker offense needs to fear. Defensive end Joshua Williams (6-2, 235, Jr.) has some quickness, while nose tackle Nick Davison (6-0, 285, Sr.) is a good leader.
The linebackers are young, but senior Ryan Consiglio (6-1, 220) is the best defender. He averaged 10 tackles per game last year on the strong side. In the secondary, safety Jordan Tippit (6-0, 205, Sr.) and Chris Lewis-Harris (5-11, 175, Sr.) at corner need to make plays. Overall this is a small young defense Nebraska can exploit.
Chattanooga struggled on special teams in 2010. Freshman Nick Pollard (6-0, 180) is untested and punter Mike Hammons (5-10, 180, Sr.) averaged only 38.4 yards punting last season. Bradford is solid in the kick return game for the Mocs, but again Nebraska possesses a huge edge in special teams.
Nebraska holds all the cards in the game against Chattanooga. The Mocs will struggle and the Huskers will roll in all parts of the game. The Big Red starts slow, but gains momentum in posting a 52-17 win against Chattanooga. Thanks for reading Going Deep With Doze. Look for my post game analysis in my next post.
Finally Prediction Time
Two quick pieces today before kickoff. First is the overall season prediction. You can have some fun and see how close I am come bowl season.
Nebraska starts with a big win over Chattanooga. The Mocs just do not match up with the Big Red. This will be a game where we find out how talented the young Huskers are (Nebraska 1-0).
Week two will test the Blackshirts when Nebraska hosts Fresno State. A young hotshot quarterback with good bloodlines will keep the Huskers at bay for a while, but the Big Red will open it up in the second half for a nice win (Nebraska 2-0).
Week three sets up the only rematch from 2010 when Washington travels to Lincoln. Coach Bo Pelini will have the team ready for everything as the Huskers will have something to prove after the Huskies topped the Big Red in the last contest. Look for the Big Red to win a game that will be decided in the fourth quarter (Nebraska 3-0).
Week 4 sends the Huskers to Laramie to take on the Wyoming Cowboys. Nebraska passes the road test with flying colors and the Big Red is undefeated in non-conference play (Nebraska 4-0).
The Big 10 Conference opens the Big Red action in week 5 at Wisconsin. The Badgers appear to be the biggest test on the Husker schedule. Wisconsin will be sky high and Camp Randall Stadium will be a hornet's nest. A young Nebraska teams loses at Madison (Nebraska 4-1).
Bo Pelini wants a piece of Ohio State. The Buckeyes will be back at full strength after early season suspensions. No one likes Bo when he is angry, and this Husker team responds well after the first loss of the season. The Big Red shows the Buckeyes Memorial Stadium is a tough place to play in defeating Ohio State by a touchdown (Nebraska 5-1).
Minnesota hosts the Huskers next, and the Golden Gophers wilt against a great defense. Nebraska dominates Minnesota in front of a lot of Husker fans in Minneapolis (Nebraska 6-1).
Michigan State comes to Lincoln with a veteran quarterback and lots of talent. The big difference is the Huskers win the game on both sides of the line. The Spartans fall by 10 points because the Huskers are the better team in the trenches (Nebraska 7-1).
Northwestern is next. A solid quarterback with little running game and no defense is the test here for the Huskers. The Big Red finds an offensive spark and wins a wild game where lots of points are scored by both teams (Nebraska 8-1).
Penn State on the road is a team that almost no Husker fan likes to face. Nebraska turns the ball over too many times and in front of a very hostile crowd, falls by 13 at Happy Valley (Nebraska 8-2).
The Huskers face a huge make or break game at Michigan. Shoelace is a great athlete, but somehow, the Huskers win this game at the end by two points with a defensive stand. Somewhere, Bob Devaney is smiling as the Wolverines fall (Nebraska 9-2).
Iowa wants an upset in Lincoln. NO WAY. In the best performance of the season, the Big Red rolls the Hawkeyes by 20 at Memorial Stadium (Nebraska 10-2).
The Huskers qualify for the Big 10 Championship game. Wisconsin finds out it is tough to beat a good team twice. By this time in the season, the Huskers are balanced offensively and defensively. The Badgers fall 24-19. (Nebraska 11-2).
The Rose Bowl awaits Nebraska fans again. Stanford is the opponent. The best quarterback in the nation is the test. A shootout is the outcome where the Huskers finally play well in the fourth quarter in a 42-38 victory (Nebraska 12-2, rated sixth in the nation).
There you have it. The breakdown of Chattanooga will be here quickly. Thanks for reading Going Deep with Doze.
Nebraska starts with a big win over Chattanooga. The Mocs just do not match up with the Big Red. This will be a game where we find out how talented the young Huskers are (Nebraska 1-0).
Week two will test the Blackshirts when Nebraska hosts Fresno State. A young hotshot quarterback with good bloodlines will keep the Huskers at bay for a while, but the Big Red will open it up in the second half for a nice win (Nebraska 2-0).
Week three sets up the only rematch from 2010 when Washington travels to Lincoln. Coach Bo Pelini will have the team ready for everything as the Huskers will have something to prove after the Huskies topped the Big Red in the last contest. Look for the Big Red to win a game that will be decided in the fourth quarter (Nebraska 3-0).
Week 4 sends the Huskers to Laramie to take on the Wyoming Cowboys. Nebraska passes the road test with flying colors and the Big Red is undefeated in non-conference play (Nebraska 4-0).
The Big 10 Conference opens the Big Red action in week 5 at Wisconsin. The Badgers appear to be the biggest test on the Husker schedule. Wisconsin will be sky high and Camp Randall Stadium will be a hornet's nest. A young Nebraska teams loses at Madison (Nebraska 4-1).
Bo Pelini wants a piece of Ohio State. The Buckeyes will be back at full strength after early season suspensions. No one likes Bo when he is angry, and this Husker team responds well after the first loss of the season. The Big Red shows the Buckeyes Memorial Stadium is a tough place to play in defeating Ohio State by a touchdown (Nebraska 5-1).
Minnesota hosts the Huskers next, and the Golden Gophers wilt against a great defense. Nebraska dominates Minnesota in front of a lot of Husker fans in Minneapolis (Nebraska 6-1).
Michigan State comes to Lincoln with a veteran quarterback and lots of talent. The big difference is the Huskers win the game on both sides of the line. The Spartans fall by 10 points because the Huskers are the better team in the trenches (Nebraska 7-1).
Northwestern is next. A solid quarterback with little running game and no defense is the test here for the Huskers. The Big Red finds an offensive spark and wins a wild game where lots of points are scored by both teams (Nebraska 8-1).
Penn State on the road is a team that almost no Husker fan likes to face. Nebraska turns the ball over too many times and in front of a very hostile crowd, falls by 13 at Happy Valley (Nebraska 8-2).
The Huskers face a huge make or break game at Michigan. Shoelace is a great athlete, but somehow, the Huskers win this game at the end by two points with a defensive stand. Somewhere, Bob Devaney is smiling as the Wolverines fall (Nebraska 9-2).
Iowa wants an upset in Lincoln. NO WAY. In the best performance of the season, the Big Red rolls the Hawkeyes by 20 at Memorial Stadium (Nebraska 10-2).
The Huskers qualify for the Big 10 Championship game. Wisconsin finds out it is tough to beat a good team twice. By this time in the season, the Huskers are balanced offensively and defensively. The Badgers fall 24-19. (Nebraska 11-2).
The Rose Bowl awaits Nebraska fans again. Stanford is the opponent. The best quarterback in the nation is the test. A shootout is the outcome where the Huskers finally play well in the fourth quarter in a 42-38 victory (Nebraska 12-2, rated sixth in the nation).
There you have it. The breakdown of Chattanooga will be here quickly. Thanks for reading Going Deep with Doze.
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