Nebraska travels to Madison to take on Wisconsin Saturday night in a match up of top ten teams. The game is set to kickoff at 7:12 p.m. and will be televised nationally by ABC. Both teams are 4-0 in a game that introduces the Huskers to Big 10 Conference play.
The Badgers are coached by Bret Bielema, who is 53-16 in his sixth season as coach of Wisconsin. Nebraska leads the all-time series 3-2, with Nebraska winning 20-16 in 1973 and dropping a 21-20 contest in 1974. This will be a game that has all the buzz from around the country with national television coverage and ESPN hosting College Gameday Saturday from Camp Randall Stadium in Madison.
Wisconsin simply has a great offense. The catalyst is quarterback Russell Wilson (5-foot-11, 210 pounds, Senior). Wilson absolutely has no flaws to his game. He is a transfer from North Carolina State that has years of experience as an offensive leader. Wilson averages 27 yards a game rushing and can definitely hurt the Blackshirts with his running ability. As a former minor league baseball player he has tremendous athleticism. So far is 2011, Wilson averages 284 yards passing per game with 11 touchdowns and only one interception. He completes 75.8 percent of his passes (69 of 91). If Wilson plays well, Nebraska is in trouble.
The Badgers also run the ball extremely well. As a team the Badgers average 245.5 yards per game rushing. Two backs star for Wisconsin. Montee Ball (5-11, 210, Jr.) has nine touchdowns this season and averages 90 yards rushing per game. Sophomore James White (5-10, 195) adds 75 yards per game with three scores. Wisconsin will really attempt to run the ball to set up their passing game.
Wisconsin can also hurt the Huskers through the air. Receiver Nick Toon (6-3, 220, Sr.) has the physical tools to be a star. He has 21 catches this season for 88.2 yards per game and five scores on the year. Tight end Jacob Pedersen (6-4, 240, So.) has four touchdown catches as a favorite target for Wilson. Sophomore Jacob Abbrederis (6-2, 180) is also a solid complementary receiver for the Badgers. The receivers give Wisconsin a better balanced offense than the Badgers have had in many years.
The offensive line is a traditional strength for Wisconsin. From tackle to tackle, the Badgers average over 6-5 and 322 pounds. That is unbelievable size, yet they may be slow against a Nebraska defensive line with speed and depth.The offensive line is led by center Peter Konz, (6-5, 315, Jr.). Konz is a player that pro scouts are looking at for the future. Right tackle Josh Oglesby (6-7, 330, Sr.) may be big enough to block out the sun. If the line wins the battle at the point of attack it will be along night for the Big Red.
Wisconsin's defense has been less than impressive against lackluster opponents. The overall statistics are good with only 246.5 yards of total offense and 8.5 points given up per game, but UNLV, Oregon State, Northern Illinois and South Dakota will not put fear into any major college football team. The Badgers are led by linebacker Chris Borland (5-11, 245, So.). Borland paces the team with 35 total tackles. Mike Taylor (6-2, 230, Jr.) is another linebacker with 30 tackles this season. The defense truly has not been tested by the soft schedule.
Special teams have been average for Wisconsin. Abbrederis and White are good return men, but kicking has only been passable. Freshman Kyle French (6-1, 190) is only 2 of 4 on field goals with a long kick of 29 yards. Punter Brad Nortman (6-3, 210, Sr.) averages over 43 yards per punt. Nebraska does appear to be more consistent on special teams than the Badgers in 2011.
Nebraska will be pushed to the limit by Wisconsin. A solid offense with few weaknesses will make it tough for the Huskers to win away from home. By far, this is the best team Nebraska will see in the regular season. For the Big Red to win, they need to play an error-free game. That is a difficult task at the madhouse that is Camp Randall Stadium. As much as I would love to pick a Husker victory, I think the Badgers will win at home. Look for Wisconsin to defeat Nebraska 38-24. Thanks for reading Going Deep With Doze and check my post-game analysis in my next post.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Nebraska Keeps it Simple to Defeat the Cowboys
The Nebraska Cornhuskers utilized a stellar running game to improve to 4-0 on the season with a 38-14 win Saturday night over the Wyoming Cowboys in Laramie.
Several things were impressive for the Big Red. First it was nice to see so much red in the stands at a Husker road game. The Nebraska offense lined up and physically pounded Wyoming in the fourth quarter behind a series of toss plays. Offensive Coordinator Tim Beck found a play that was working and ran it until his team scored in the fourth quarter to put the game away. The Huskers amassed over 300 yards rushing. Rex Burkhead was dominant behind an improving offensive line. Ameer Abdullah, Braylon Heard, Aaron Green, and Austin Jones all ran with power and speed. Brion Carnes got the final series at quarterback for Nebraska and ran an option play that would have made Tommie Frazier proud.
The passing game was effective with a deep play action pass to Kyler Reed and Kenny Bell was wide open on a scoring pass from Taylor Martinez. The Huskers limited penalties again and the defense gave up only 14 points on the road.
Again things are not ideal, the secondary gave up some plays in pass coverage and Wyoming dropped a likely touchdown pass early in the second half. Plenty of work to be done as Nebraska gets ready for Wisconsin.
The fans will have plenty to talk about. The best thing is that the Huskers are 4-0 and appear ready for a major test. The offense looks sharp and the defense will be coached up.
It is time for Big Ten Conference football. Let the games begin.
Several things were impressive for the Big Red. First it was nice to see so much red in the stands at a Husker road game. The Nebraska offense lined up and physically pounded Wyoming in the fourth quarter behind a series of toss plays. Offensive Coordinator Tim Beck found a play that was working and ran it until his team scored in the fourth quarter to put the game away. The Huskers amassed over 300 yards rushing. Rex Burkhead was dominant behind an improving offensive line. Ameer Abdullah, Braylon Heard, Aaron Green, and Austin Jones all ran with power and speed. Brion Carnes got the final series at quarterback for Nebraska and ran an option play that would have made Tommie Frazier proud.
The passing game was effective with a deep play action pass to Kyler Reed and Kenny Bell was wide open on a scoring pass from Taylor Martinez. The Huskers limited penalties again and the defense gave up only 14 points on the road.
Again things are not ideal, the secondary gave up some plays in pass coverage and Wyoming dropped a likely touchdown pass early in the second half. Plenty of work to be done as Nebraska gets ready for Wisconsin.
The fans will have plenty to talk about. The best thing is that the Huskers are 4-0 and appear ready for a major test. The offense looks sharp and the defense will be coached up.
It is time for Big Ten Conference football. Let the games begin.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Huskers Roll the Cowboys in Laramie
Nebraska hits the road and takes on Wyoming Saturday night in Laramie. Both teams are 3-0 for a game that kicks off at 6:38 p.m. (CDT) and is set to be televised by Versus. The Cowboys will try to take advantage of playing at 7,300 feet above sea level in the Huskers first game away from Lincoln.
Dave Christensen is the coach for the Cowboys. In his third season, he is 10-15 as the head man for Wyoming. The offense has been balanced in the undefeated start for the Cowboys. Brett Smith (6-foot-3, 195 pounds, Freshman) is the quarterback. Smith averages over 265 yards passing per game with seven touchdowns and three interceptions this season. He completes 61.8 percent (68 of 110) of his passes so far in 2011. Smith is also a good runner. He averages over 51 yards per game with three scores. Smith's youth may hurt him, especially if the Husker defense disguises some of the coverages for the freshman quarterback. If Smith plays well, Nebraska will have to play a full four quarter game. If Smith turns the ball over the game may be over early in the second half.
Wyoming likes to run the ball with three players. Smith is a quality runner, but he is by no means alone. Alvester Alexander (5-11, 204, Jr.) is the starter at running back for Wyoming. Alexander averages 45 yards per game with three touchdowns. Brandon Miller (6-0, 187, So.) averages 56 yards per game rushing while Ghaali Muhammad (6-0, 221, Jr.) leads the way with 66 yards per game. As a team, Wyoming averages over 226 yards per game rushing.
In the passing game, Robert Herron (5-10, 187, So.) paces the Cowboy receivers. He has 17 catches for 176 yards and two scores on the season. Each of those totals tops the Wyoming season statistics. Mazi Ogbonna (6-1, 200, Sr.) is the second option with 14 receptions and junior Chris McNeill (6-1, 180) adds 12 grabs for 139 yards this season. The Cowboys definitely show balance this season between running and throwing the ball. Five receivers average over 38 yards receiving per game this season. No one in this group is a major threat, but the Husker secondary must come ready to play.
Wyoming starts a veteran offensive line. Three seniors and a junior lead the Cowboys up front. On the left side, tackle John Hutchins (6-5, 295, Sr.) and guard Brandon Self (6-3,301, Sr.) are solid players. As a team Wyoming averages over 6-4 and 297 pounds from tackle to tackle. Wyoming will have trouble matching the depth and quickness of the Husker defensive front.
Defensively Wyoming gives up plenty of yards. Opponents average nearly 415 yards per game of total offense, including 287 yards per game through the air. The spark on defense has been end Korey Jones (6-2, 225, Jr.). Jones is undersized, but his speed has led to four sacks and 5.5 tackles for loss so far this season. Sophomore Devin Harris (6-3, 225) leads the team with 23 total tackles from his middle linebacker spot. Freshman Blair Burns (5-10, 170) has a pair of interceptions as a cornerback. The secondary is young and susceptible to the big play. The Cowboy defense will have a great deal of trouble matching up the Husker speed offensively.
On special teams, Wyoming does not really stand out. Kicker Daniel Sullivan (5-10, 185, Fr.) is only 1 of 2 on field goals with his good kick from only 20 yards out. Punter Austin McCoy (6-3, 208, Sr.) averages less than 39 yards per punt. The biggest threat on returns is Dominic Rufran (6-0, 185, Fr.) who averages over 24 yards on kickoff returns.
Wyoming has played powerhouses like Weber State, Texas State and Bowling Green. The Cowboys are making a major step up in competition as the Big Red comes to town. Wyoming is a very youthful football team that likely will have problems matching Nebraska at almost any position. The Huskers will give up a few points and may start slow, but then adjust and shut Wyoming down. Nebraska will dominate Wyoming late in posting a 52-21 win over the Cowboys Saturday night.
Dave Christensen is the coach for the Cowboys. In his third season, he is 10-15 as the head man for Wyoming. The offense has been balanced in the undefeated start for the Cowboys. Brett Smith (6-foot-3, 195 pounds, Freshman) is the quarterback. Smith averages over 265 yards passing per game with seven touchdowns and three interceptions this season. He completes 61.8 percent (68 of 110) of his passes so far in 2011. Smith is also a good runner. He averages over 51 yards per game with three scores. Smith's youth may hurt him, especially if the Husker defense disguises some of the coverages for the freshman quarterback. If Smith plays well, Nebraska will have to play a full four quarter game. If Smith turns the ball over the game may be over early in the second half.
Wyoming likes to run the ball with three players. Smith is a quality runner, but he is by no means alone. Alvester Alexander (5-11, 204, Jr.) is the starter at running back for Wyoming. Alexander averages 45 yards per game with three touchdowns. Brandon Miller (6-0, 187, So.) averages 56 yards per game rushing while Ghaali Muhammad (6-0, 221, Jr.) leads the way with 66 yards per game. As a team, Wyoming averages over 226 yards per game rushing.
In the passing game, Robert Herron (5-10, 187, So.) paces the Cowboy receivers. He has 17 catches for 176 yards and two scores on the season. Each of those totals tops the Wyoming season statistics. Mazi Ogbonna (6-1, 200, Sr.) is the second option with 14 receptions and junior Chris McNeill (6-1, 180) adds 12 grabs for 139 yards this season. The Cowboys definitely show balance this season between running and throwing the ball. Five receivers average over 38 yards receiving per game this season. No one in this group is a major threat, but the Husker secondary must come ready to play.
Wyoming starts a veteran offensive line. Three seniors and a junior lead the Cowboys up front. On the left side, tackle John Hutchins (6-5, 295, Sr.) and guard Brandon Self (6-3,301, Sr.) are solid players. As a team Wyoming averages over 6-4 and 297 pounds from tackle to tackle. Wyoming will have trouble matching the depth and quickness of the Husker defensive front.
Defensively Wyoming gives up plenty of yards. Opponents average nearly 415 yards per game of total offense, including 287 yards per game through the air. The spark on defense has been end Korey Jones (6-2, 225, Jr.). Jones is undersized, but his speed has led to four sacks and 5.5 tackles for loss so far this season. Sophomore Devin Harris (6-3, 225) leads the team with 23 total tackles from his middle linebacker spot. Freshman Blair Burns (5-10, 170) has a pair of interceptions as a cornerback. The secondary is young and susceptible to the big play. The Cowboy defense will have a great deal of trouble matching up the Husker speed offensively.
On special teams, Wyoming does not really stand out. Kicker Daniel Sullivan (5-10, 185, Fr.) is only 1 of 2 on field goals with his good kick from only 20 yards out. Punter Austin McCoy (6-3, 208, Sr.) averages less than 39 yards per punt. The biggest threat on returns is Dominic Rufran (6-0, 185, Fr.) who averages over 24 yards on kickoff returns.
Wyoming has played powerhouses like Weber State, Texas State and Bowling Green. The Cowboys are making a major step up in competition as the Big Red comes to town. Wyoming is a very youthful football team that likely will have problems matching Nebraska at almost any position. The Huskers will give up a few points and may start slow, but then adjust and shut Wyoming down. Nebraska will dominate Wyoming late in posting a 52-21 win over the Cowboys Saturday night.
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Sometimes You Like What You See
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.
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.
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.
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