Thursday, August 29, 2013
Nebraska to Cruise Past Wyoming Saturday
Nebraska hosts the Wyoming Cowboys Saturday night at Memorial Stadium in a 7:05p.m. kickoff that will be televised on the Big Ten Network.
The Cowboys were 4-8 a year ago and the Huskers lead the all time series 6-0. Wyoming is coached by Dave Christensen, the former offensive coordinator at Missouri. Christensen is 22-28 entering his fifth season as a head coach. His teams are known for wide open offenses and soft defenses. The game will be a coming out party for several Husker newcomers that the fans will be excited to see.
Brett Smith (6-foot-3, 206 Pounds, Junior) is a fine quarterback for Wyoming. He completed 62.7 percent of his passes last year with 27 touchdowns and only eight interceptions. Smith passed for nearly 284 yards per game in 2012. He can run some, averaging 25 yards per game a year ago with six touchdowns. He is definitely the catalyst for the offense. He must be pressured to make the Cowboys a one-dimensional football team.
The receivers are a solid unit for Wyoming. The big-play man is Robert Herron (5-10, 187, Sr.). In 2012 Herron averaged 21.2 yards per catch with eight touchdowns. He is a definite speed threat. Jalen Claiborne (5-9, 175, Jr.) is another undersized target that Smith likes to look for. He had 34 catches a year ago. Receiver Dominic Ruffran (6-0, 188, Jr.) added 39 catches as a possession target.
The running game averaged only 125 yards per game in 2012. Brandon Miller (6-0, 200, Jr.) had 352 yards rushing last season and added 30 catches out of the backfield. Wyoming expects good things from freshman Omar Stover (5-11, 198) one of the best recent recruits for the Cowboys. Wyoming is not a major threat running the football.
The offensive line is highlighted by a pair of big tackles. On the left side is Walker Madden (6-9, 297, Jr.) and opposite Madden is Connor Rains (6-7, 318, Jr.). These two big men may wilt in the heat early Saturday night, giving the Husker defenders a chance to come after Brett Smith.
The defense gave up a lot of points and yards in 2012. The Cowboys allowed 470 yards and over 33 points per game last season. Nebraska will be able to both run at will and pass over the top of the Wyoming defense. The best player up front is Eddie Yarbrough (6-3, 257, So.) with six tackles for loss and four sacks in 2012 at defensive end. Middle linebacker Devyn Harris (6-3, 240, Sr.) needs to play well against the run or it will be a long night for Wyoming. The secondary is paced by Blair Burns (5-10, 186, Jr.) as a cornerback. The defense will be tested and give up plenty of big plays.
On special teams kicker Stuart Williams (5-11, 180, Jr.) was 7 of 12 (58.2 percent) with a long of on 42 yards on field goals. freshman Ethan Woods (6-3, 165) is totally untested as a punter. Claiborne is a threat as a kick returner. Both teams will have to prove their special teams are ready to play in this season opener.
Nebraska is a better football team than Wyoming. The Huskers will dominate offensively. The defense will give up a few plays, but I think young players like David Santos and Randy Gregory will be noticed by the fans. The Huskers will score plenty of points in a 59-20 win Saturday over Wyoming. Thanks for reading Going Deep With Doze.
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
2013 Nebraska Football Preview
The Nebraska Cornhuskers 2013 football season is ready to start. Fans all around the world are awaiting the kickoff of another year of Husker football.
Lets take a look at the Husker roster and the games before the season starts and give you my fearless pick on the results before the year gets underway.
The Husker offense is going to be dynamic if healthy. Quarterback Taylor Martinez (6-feet-1, 210 pounds, Senior) has the ability to score every time he touches the ball. If Martinez is injury-free, then Nebraska likely will have one of the best big-play artists in college football. He must reduce turnovers for 2013 to be a championship season for the Big Red.
Running back Ameer Abdullah (5-9, 190, Jr.) is a tough runner that also catches the ball well. There is depth in the backfield, but it is all young and except for Imani Cross (6-1, 225, So.) not game tested. Adam Taylor (6-2, 200) and Terrell Newby (5-10, 180) are a pair of freshmen the fans want to see on the field.
The receivers have outstanding talent and many players can contribute in the passing game. Kenny Bell (6-1, 185, Jr.) has the ability to play in the National Football League. Quincy Enunwa (6-2, 225, Sr.) is a good possession receiver while Jamal Turner (6-1, 185, Jr.) is dangerous as a slot receiver and in the return game. The tight ends will have to develop as the season moves along.
The Husker offensive line is experienced with depth across the board. Spencer Long (6-4, 315, Sr.) is an All-American candidate at guard. Jeremiah Sirles (6-6, 310, Sr.) is a solid tackle and the Huskers have game-tested talent all along the front line.
The defense is young across the board. Jason Ankrah (6-4, 265, Sr.) has to be a leader at defensive end. On the other side Randy Gregory (6-6, 235, Jr.) can be a difference maker as a pass rusher. Other key members of the defense are Thad Randle (6-1, 290, Sr.), at tackle David Santos (6-0, 225, So.) as a middle linebacker and Ciante Evans (5-11, 190, Sr.) at cornerback. The best unit is the secondary and the linebackers have more athletic ability than Nebraska fans have seen in the recent past.
The kicking game is untested. Turner and Bell are likely to be the punt and kickoff returners. Mauro Bondi (6-0, 205, So.) and Pat Smith (5-11, 185, Sr.) are battling for the kicking job. Sam Foltz (6-1, 200, Fr.) appears to have won the punting job. The Huskers must mature in this phase of the game if they are to compete for a championship.
Now its time for a look at my thoughts for each game before the start of the season.
Nebraska should move past a young Wyoming defense and you can look for my full preview of this game later this week.
The Huskers will be be solid against a transitioning team from Southern Mississippi that will be better defensively than they were a year ago. Nebraska could gain a lot of confidence in the first two weeks.
UCLA is a critical test in week three. Playing at home in an early kickoff favors the Huskers in what could be a wild contest. I like the Huskers by a touchdown in the best game of the early season.
South Dakota State is a fundamentally sound team that will be over matched in another Big Red victory.
Nebraska will open the conference with what should be a big win against a very soft Illinois team. The Purdue game is the first one away from Lincoln. The Boilermakers are not ready for a team with Nebraska's offensive talent. The Big Red will start conference play 3-0 after another big win over Minnesota.
The rest of the schedule is much more challenging. Nebraska will need to take care of the ball against Northwestern. The Wildcats will be tough but the Big Red will win a tight game at home.
Michigan will be a game Nebraska would have to play error free to win. I believe the Wolverines will win a big contest over the Huskers. Michigan State is not consistent enough offensively to win in Lincoln. Penn State will be a last minute type of game. Depth will be key in a game that I will pick Nebraska. The Huskers will top Iowa to close the regular season.
The Huskers will make the Big Ten Championship and drop a decision to Ohio State. The Buckeyes likely will play for the National Championship. A Rose Bowl game against a team like Oregon or Stanford will be tough and I believe closing the season 11-3 makes 2013 a successful year.
Thanks for reading Going Deep With Doze.
Lets take a look at the Husker roster and the games before the season starts and give you my fearless pick on the results before the year gets underway.
The Husker offense is going to be dynamic if healthy. Quarterback Taylor Martinez (6-feet-1, 210 pounds, Senior) has the ability to score every time he touches the ball. If Martinez is injury-free, then Nebraska likely will have one of the best big-play artists in college football. He must reduce turnovers for 2013 to be a championship season for the Big Red.
Running back Ameer Abdullah (5-9, 190, Jr.) is a tough runner that also catches the ball well. There is depth in the backfield, but it is all young and except for Imani Cross (6-1, 225, So.) not game tested. Adam Taylor (6-2, 200) and Terrell Newby (5-10, 180) are a pair of freshmen the fans want to see on the field.
The receivers have outstanding talent and many players can contribute in the passing game. Kenny Bell (6-1, 185, Jr.) has the ability to play in the National Football League. Quincy Enunwa (6-2, 225, Sr.) is a good possession receiver while Jamal Turner (6-1, 185, Jr.) is dangerous as a slot receiver and in the return game. The tight ends will have to develop as the season moves along.
The Husker offensive line is experienced with depth across the board. Spencer Long (6-4, 315, Sr.) is an All-American candidate at guard. Jeremiah Sirles (6-6, 310, Sr.) is a solid tackle and the Huskers have game-tested talent all along the front line.
The defense is young across the board. Jason Ankrah (6-4, 265, Sr.) has to be a leader at defensive end. On the other side Randy Gregory (6-6, 235, Jr.) can be a difference maker as a pass rusher. Other key members of the defense are Thad Randle (6-1, 290, Sr.), at tackle David Santos (6-0, 225, So.) as a middle linebacker and Ciante Evans (5-11, 190, Sr.) at cornerback. The best unit is the secondary and the linebackers have more athletic ability than Nebraska fans have seen in the recent past.
The kicking game is untested. Turner and Bell are likely to be the punt and kickoff returners. Mauro Bondi (6-0, 205, So.) and Pat Smith (5-11, 185, Sr.) are battling for the kicking job. Sam Foltz (6-1, 200, Fr.) appears to have won the punting job. The Huskers must mature in this phase of the game if they are to compete for a championship.
Now its time for a look at my thoughts for each game before the start of the season.
Nebraska should move past a young Wyoming defense and you can look for my full preview of this game later this week.
The Huskers will be be solid against a transitioning team from Southern Mississippi that will be better defensively than they were a year ago. Nebraska could gain a lot of confidence in the first two weeks.
UCLA is a critical test in week three. Playing at home in an early kickoff favors the Huskers in what could be a wild contest. I like the Huskers by a touchdown in the best game of the early season.
South Dakota State is a fundamentally sound team that will be over matched in another Big Red victory.
Nebraska will open the conference with what should be a big win against a very soft Illinois team. The Purdue game is the first one away from Lincoln. The Boilermakers are not ready for a team with Nebraska's offensive talent. The Big Red will start conference play 3-0 after another big win over Minnesota.
The rest of the schedule is much more challenging. Nebraska will need to take care of the ball against Northwestern. The Wildcats will be tough but the Big Red will win a tight game at home.
Michigan will be a game Nebraska would have to play error free to win. I believe the Wolverines will win a big contest over the Huskers. Michigan State is not consistent enough offensively to win in Lincoln. Penn State will be a last minute type of game. Depth will be key in a game that I will pick Nebraska. The Huskers will top Iowa to close the regular season.
The Huskers will make the Big Ten Championship and drop a decision to Ohio State. The Buckeyes likely will play for the National Championship. A Rose Bowl game against a team like Oregon or Stanford will be tough and I believe closing the season 11-3 makes 2013 a successful year.
Thanks for reading Going Deep With Doze.
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Nebraska and Georgia Set to Battle
The Nebraska Cornhuskers face the Georgia Bulldogs in the Capital One Bowl that is set for a 12:00 p.m. (CST) kickoff January 1, 2013 televised nationally by ABC.
Georgia is 11-2 on the season with losses to South Carolina and Alabama, while Nebraska is 10-3 with losses to UCLA, Ohio State and Wisconsin. The Bulldogs are coached by Omaha native Mark Richt who is 118-40 in his 12th season at Georgia. His team is solid and the Bulldogs are definitely well coached.
The offense is led by quarterback Aaron Murray (6-foot-1, 210 pounds, Junior). He is a very accurate quarterback, completing 65.4 percent (231 of 353) of his passes with 31 touchdowns and eight interceptions. The Bulldogs average just over 274 yards passing per game. Murray is not much of a runner but he is a very good decision maker. The Huskers will need to disguise their matchup zone defense very well in order to have an opportunity to win the game.
Georgia runs the ball very well. Two backs lead the way for the Bulldogs. Todd Gurley (6-1, 218, Fr.) will get the start at tailback.on the season he has rushed for 1,288 yards (96.9 yards per game) with 16 touchdowns. He is solid running inside or outside. Keith Marshall (5-11, 216, Fr.) will also see a lot of action. He has rushed for 743 yards this season (55.6 yards per game) with eight touchdowns. The Big Red must be fundamentally sound and play their responsibilities well or Georgia will break several big plays. Nebraska will have to watch out for the speed of Marshall running behind a very talented offensive line.
The offensive line has professional size and talent. From tackle to tackle the Bulldogs average just under 6-4 and nearly 309 pounds per man. The leader is left tackle Kenarious Gates (6-5, 318. Jr.). As a group they block well for both the running and passing game. Nebraska needs to stay fresh and use the speed of players like Eric Martin to make big plays on defense.
The receivers have big play ability. Five receivers have at least 21 catches for Georgia this season. Malcolm Mitchell is the team leader with 40 catches on the season. He has 572 yards receiving and four touchdowns this season. At the other wide receiver spot Tavarres King (6-1, 200, Sr.) has 39 catches but he leads the team with 846 yards receiving (21.7 yards per catch) and eight touchdowns. King is the deep threat in the Georgia passing game. Murray will spread the ball around and the Husker defense needs to be ready for deep play action passes early in the game.
Defensively Georgia has a great deal of talent. The defense has struggled at times against good running teams like Alabama and South Carolina. The Bulldogs allow 178 yards per game on the ground and 174 yards per game through the air. Georgia has tremendous size up front. Kwame Geathers (6-6, 355, Jr.) is a huge run stopper. Alec Ogletree (6-3, 232, Jr.) will make plays all over the field from his linebacker spot. Freshman Jordan Jenkins (6-3, 257) is a very solid pass rusher as an outside linebacker as is junior Jarvis Jones (6-3, 241). The secondary is ranked as one of the best in the nation and will make things challenging for the Husker passing game. Defensive back Sanders Commings (6-2, 216, Sr.) has good size and will match up well with Quincy Enunwa while safety Shawn Williams (6-1, 217, Sr.) is the best tackler in the secondary. This unit is very solid.
On special teams, Mitchell and Gurley are the main men in the return game. Gurley has the quickness to pop a big play and the coverage teams on both kickoffs and punts must stay under control. Kicker Marshall Morgan (6-3, 201, Fr.) is only 8 of 13 (61 percent) on field goals and punter Collin Barber (6-2, 200, Fr.) averages 41.6 yards per punt. These two freshmen may be a weak spot for the Georgia squad. The Bulldogs have blocked five kicks this season so the Huskers must stay very sound on the fundamentals in the kicking game.
Nebraska and Georgia both come in after tough losses in big games. The team that is more mentally focused and commits fewer mistakes will win the game. The Bulldogs have more depth on both sides of the line that I think will wear on Nebraska in the second half. I will pick Georgia by a score of 41-30 in the Capital One Bowl. Thanks for reading Going Deep With Doze.
Georgia is 11-2 on the season with losses to South Carolina and Alabama, while Nebraska is 10-3 with losses to UCLA, Ohio State and Wisconsin. The Bulldogs are coached by Omaha native Mark Richt who is 118-40 in his 12th season at Georgia. His team is solid and the Bulldogs are definitely well coached.
The offense is led by quarterback Aaron Murray (6-foot-1, 210 pounds, Junior). He is a very accurate quarterback, completing 65.4 percent (231 of 353) of his passes with 31 touchdowns and eight interceptions. The Bulldogs average just over 274 yards passing per game. Murray is not much of a runner but he is a very good decision maker. The Huskers will need to disguise their matchup zone defense very well in order to have an opportunity to win the game.
Georgia runs the ball very well. Two backs lead the way for the Bulldogs. Todd Gurley (6-1, 218, Fr.) will get the start at tailback.on the season he has rushed for 1,288 yards (96.9 yards per game) with 16 touchdowns. He is solid running inside or outside. Keith Marshall (5-11, 216, Fr.) will also see a lot of action. He has rushed for 743 yards this season (55.6 yards per game) with eight touchdowns. The Big Red must be fundamentally sound and play their responsibilities well or Georgia will break several big plays. Nebraska will have to watch out for the speed of Marshall running behind a very talented offensive line.
The offensive line has professional size and talent. From tackle to tackle the Bulldogs average just under 6-4 and nearly 309 pounds per man. The leader is left tackle Kenarious Gates (6-5, 318. Jr.). As a group they block well for both the running and passing game. Nebraska needs to stay fresh and use the speed of players like Eric Martin to make big plays on defense.
The receivers have big play ability. Five receivers have at least 21 catches for Georgia this season. Malcolm Mitchell is the team leader with 40 catches on the season. He has 572 yards receiving and four touchdowns this season. At the other wide receiver spot Tavarres King (6-1, 200, Sr.) has 39 catches but he leads the team with 846 yards receiving (21.7 yards per catch) and eight touchdowns. King is the deep threat in the Georgia passing game. Murray will spread the ball around and the Husker defense needs to be ready for deep play action passes early in the game.
Defensively Georgia has a great deal of talent. The defense has struggled at times against good running teams like Alabama and South Carolina. The Bulldogs allow 178 yards per game on the ground and 174 yards per game through the air. Georgia has tremendous size up front. Kwame Geathers (6-6, 355, Jr.) is a huge run stopper. Alec Ogletree (6-3, 232, Jr.) will make plays all over the field from his linebacker spot. Freshman Jordan Jenkins (6-3, 257) is a very solid pass rusher as an outside linebacker as is junior Jarvis Jones (6-3, 241). The secondary is ranked as one of the best in the nation and will make things challenging for the Husker passing game. Defensive back Sanders Commings (6-2, 216, Sr.) has good size and will match up well with Quincy Enunwa while safety Shawn Williams (6-1, 217, Sr.) is the best tackler in the secondary. This unit is very solid.
On special teams, Mitchell and Gurley are the main men in the return game. Gurley has the quickness to pop a big play and the coverage teams on both kickoffs and punts must stay under control. Kicker Marshall Morgan (6-3, 201, Fr.) is only 8 of 13 (61 percent) on field goals and punter Collin Barber (6-2, 200, Fr.) averages 41.6 yards per punt. These two freshmen may be a weak spot for the Georgia squad. The Bulldogs have blocked five kicks this season so the Huskers must stay very sound on the fundamentals in the kicking game.
Nebraska and Georgia both come in after tough losses in big games. The team that is more mentally focused and commits fewer mistakes will win the game. The Bulldogs have more depth on both sides of the line that I think will wear on Nebraska in the second half. I will pick Georgia by a score of 41-30 in the Capital One Bowl. Thanks for reading Going Deep With Doze.
Friday, November 30, 2012
Nebraska Looks to Seal the Deal Against Wisconsin
Nebraska faces Wisconsin Saturday night for the Big Ten Conference Championship. The Huskers are 10-2 while the Badgers are 7-5 for the contest that is set for a 7:17 p.m. kickoff that will be nationally televised on Fox.
The two teams played on September 29 when Nebraska overcame a 17-point third quarter deficit to defeat the Badgers by a 30-27 count.
I covered most of the key players in the earlier preview, but there are a few I will highlight in this matchup. The Badgers have a new quarterback in Curt Phillips (6-foot-3, 214 Pounds, Senior). He has been beset by injuries in his career but won the starting job after Joel Stave had his season ended several weeks ago by injury. Phillips completes 52.6 percent (30 of 57) of his passes with four touchdowns and one interception. He is the best runner of the three quarterbacks the Badgers have played in 2012. Phillips has to be a game manager that does not make mistakes for Wisconsin to be in the game.
The Badgers have an outstanding running game. Montee Ball (5-11, 215, Sr.) has 1528 yards and 18 touchdowns on the season. James White (5-10, 197, Jr.) is a solid fill in and Melvin Gordon (6-1, 206 Fr.) also has the ability to pop a big run. Wisconsin has the best backs the Huskers have seen all season. If the Husker defense shuts down the run as they did in the second half of the first contest, they can dominate the game. Look for White and Gordon on kickoff returns as well.
Two receivers have had great seasons for Wisconsin. Jared Abbrederis, (6-2, 188, Jr.) is a threat on deep play-action passes. He can lull defenders to sleep and get behind them with his great pass routes. Ciante Evans likely will draw the first assignment and get help with double coverage. Abbrederis leads the team with 44 catches for 764 yards and five touchdowns. He is also the best punt returner for Wisconsin. Tight end Jacob Pedersen (6-4, 237, Jr.) is a favorite target from his tight end spot. He has 25 receptions and four touchdowns on the season.
The offensive line is a group of behemoths, averaging over 6-5 and 325 pounds per man from tackle to tackle. The group is outstanding in run blocking with left tackle Rick Wagner (6-6, 317, Sr.) leading the way. The Huskers are smaller on the defensive front but have a major speed advantage that will make a difference in the second half.
Wisconsin on defense has a great pair of linebackers. In the middle, Chris Borland (5-11, 242 Jr.) is easy to find, he will be nearest the football most of the time. He is a great leader that makes few mistakes. Mike Taylor (6-2, 224, Sr.) is also outstanding on the weakside of the defense. Wisconsin gives up some points and yards, especially in the passing game. Defensive end David Gilbert ( 6-4, 250, Jr.) is the best pass rusher. The defense really wore out in the second half of the first matchup and may do so again.
Nebraska has a major edge kicking and punting the football. Wisconsin kicker Kyle French (6-1, 193, So.) is 10 of 15 (66.7 percent) on field goals with a long of 46 yards .Punter Drew Meyer (6-2, 179, Fr.) averages 41 yards per punt.
The Huskers are ready to play after being tested all season. If they can overcome the late injuries to Baker Steinkuhler and Jason Jackson they will win this game and bring home the Big Ten Championship. Nebraska looks and sounds confident, while the Badgers have struggled again the top teams in the conference all season. Behind great play from Taylor Martinez and Rex Burkhead I look for Nebraska to defeat the Badgers by a score of 31-21. Thanks for reading Going deep With Doze.
The two teams played on September 29 when Nebraska overcame a 17-point third quarter deficit to defeat the Badgers by a 30-27 count.
I covered most of the key players in the earlier preview, but there are a few I will highlight in this matchup. The Badgers have a new quarterback in Curt Phillips (6-foot-3, 214 Pounds, Senior). He has been beset by injuries in his career but won the starting job after Joel Stave had his season ended several weeks ago by injury. Phillips completes 52.6 percent (30 of 57) of his passes with four touchdowns and one interception. He is the best runner of the three quarterbacks the Badgers have played in 2012. Phillips has to be a game manager that does not make mistakes for Wisconsin to be in the game.
The Badgers have an outstanding running game. Montee Ball (5-11, 215, Sr.) has 1528 yards and 18 touchdowns on the season. James White (5-10, 197, Jr.) is a solid fill in and Melvin Gordon (6-1, 206 Fr.) also has the ability to pop a big run. Wisconsin has the best backs the Huskers have seen all season. If the Husker defense shuts down the run as they did in the second half of the first contest, they can dominate the game. Look for White and Gordon on kickoff returns as well.
Two receivers have had great seasons for Wisconsin. Jared Abbrederis, (6-2, 188, Jr.) is a threat on deep play-action passes. He can lull defenders to sleep and get behind them with his great pass routes. Ciante Evans likely will draw the first assignment and get help with double coverage. Abbrederis leads the team with 44 catches for 764 yards and five touchdowns. He is also the best punt returner for Wisconsin. Tight end Jacob Pedersen (6-4, 237, Jr.) is a favorite target from his tight end spot. He has 25 receptions and four touchdowns on the season.
The offensive line is a group of behemoths, averaging over 6-5 and 325 pounds per man from tackle to tackle. The group is outstanding in run blocking with left tackle Rick Wagner (6-6, 317, Sr.) leading the way. The Huskers are smaller on the defensive front but have a major speed advantage that will make a difference in the second half.
Wisconsin on defense has a great pair of linebackers. In the middle, Chris Borland (5-11, 242 Jr.) is easy to find, he will be nearest the football most of the time. He is a great leader that makes few mistakes. Mike Taylor (6-2, 224, Sr.) is also outstanding on the weakside of the defense. Wisconsin gives up some points and yards, especially in the passing game. Defensive end David Gilbert ( 6-4, 250, Jr.) is the best pass rusher. The defense really wore out in the second half of the first matchup and may do so again.
Nebraska has a major edge kicking and punting the football. Wisconsin kicker Kyle French (6-1, 193, So.) is 10 of 15 (66.7 percent) on field goals with a long of 46 yards .Punter Drew Meyer (6-2, 179, Fr.) averages 41 yards per punt.
The Huskers are ready to play after being tested all season. If they can overcome the late injuries to Baker Steinkuhler and Jason Jackson they will win this game and bring home the Big Ten Championship. Nebraska looks and sounds confident, while the Badgers have struggled again the top teams in the conference all season. Behind great play from Taylor Martinez and Rex Burkhead I look for Nebraska to defeat the Badgers by a score of 31-21. Thanks for reading Going deep With Doze.
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Nebraska Closes Regular Season Against Iowa
Nebraska faces Iowa at Kinnick Stadium Friday in the regular season finale. The Hawkeyes have struggled to a 4-7 mark this season while Nebraska is 9-2 on the year. The game is set for an 11:05 a.m. (CST) kickoff and will be televised nationally by ABC.
Kirk Ferentz is in his 14th year as the coach of Iowa with a career record of 100-73. His team has struggled the last five weeks and will be staying home for the postseason. The Hawkeyes had a good win at Michigan State but lost tough games to Purdue and Indiana.
The Hawkeyes are led by quarterback James Vandenberg (6-foot-3, 212 Pounds, Senior). Vandenberg is a pure drop back passer that rarely runs outside of the pocket. He can be an accurate passer, completing 58.1 percent of his passes (212 of 365) with seven touchdowns and six interceptions in 2012. Vandenberg has taken every snap for Iowa this season. He averages 196 yards passing per game. Nebraska should be able to put pressure on Vandenberg with the pass rush against an offensive line that has sustained a number of injuries.
The offensive line has not played to the level that Iowa usually does up font this season. This is a small offensive line, averaging just over 6-4 and 286 pounds from tackle to tackle. The depth is not there on this unit and Nebraska appears to have a good edge in the trenches. James Ferentz (6-2, 284, Sr.) the son of the head coach is the leader from his center spot.
In the ground game. Iowa has a punishing runner in tailback Mark Weisman (6-0, 225, So.). The transfer from the Air Force Academy has been a great surprise for Iowa in 2012. He has gained 724 yards this season including a team high eight touchdowns. He is not an elusive runner, but he never shies away from contact. Weisman will need to be kept in check by the Cornhusker defense. Injuries have eliminated any depth in the Iowa running game this season.
The passing game has three main weapons. Kevonte Martin-Manley (6-0 205 So.) leads the team with 49 receptions for 552 yards and two touchdowns. Keenan Davis (6-3 215 Sr.) has 46 grabs for 550 yards,while tight end C.J. Fiedorowicz (6-7, 265, Jr.) adds great size with his 39 catches on the year. These receivers all need to play well for Iowa to have an opportunity to upset Nebraska.
Defensively Iowa is strongest at the linebacker spots and in the secondary. As a team the Hawkeyes give up 158 yards rushing, 233 yards passing per contest. and nearly 24 points per game. Weakside linebacker Anthony Hitchens (6-1, 224, Jr.) leads the team with 114 total tackles. Middle linebacker James Morris (6-2, 230, Jr.) follows with 100 tackles this season. Up front defensive end Joe Gaglione (6-4, 264, Sr.) has five sacks and nine tackles for loss this season. This defense will be sorely tested by a Nebraska offense that is very dangerous at all the skill positions.
On special teams, Kicker Mike Meyer (6-2, 185, Jr.) has been solid, converting 17 of 20 (85 percent) of his field goals with a long of 50 yards. Punter Connor Kornbrath (6-6 215 Fr.) averages just over 37 yards per punt. Jordan Cotton (6-1, 185, Jr.) has big play ability as a kick returner and Micah Hyde (6-1, 190, Sr.) a starter at defensive back handles punt returns. Iowa may have a slight edge on special teams in this contest.
Overall Nebraska appears to be the better football team. Iowa is very good in turnover margin, so the Huskers really need to take care of the football away from home. The Hawkeyes are a beat up football team both physically and mentally. They may start quickly on Friday but I believe Nebraska will wear them down in the second half. Look for the Big Red to keep the Heroes Trophy with a 31-13 win over the Hawkeyes on Friday. Thanks for reading Going Deep With Doze.
Kirk Ferentz is in his 14th year as the coach of Iowa with a career record of 100-73. His team has struggled the last five weeks and will be staying home for the postseason. The Hawkeyes had a good win at Michigan State but lost tough games to Purdue and Indiana.
The Hawkeyes are led by quarterback James Vandenberg (6-foot-3, 212 Pounds, Senior). Vandenberg is a pure drop back passer that rarely runs outside of the pocket. He can be an accurate passer, completing 58.1 percent of his passes (212 of 365) with seven touchdowns and six interceptions in 2012. Vandenberg has taken every snap for Iowa this season. He averages 196 yards passing per game. Nebraska should be able to put pressure on Vandenberg with the pass rush against an offensive line that has sustained a number of injuries.
The offensive line has not played to the level that Iowa usually does up font this season. This is a small offensive line, averaging just over 6-4 and 286 pounds from tackle to tackle. The depth is not there on this unit and Nebraska appears to have a good edge in the trenches. James Ferentz (6-2, 284, Sr.) the son of the head coach is the leader from his center spot.
In the ground game. Iowa has a punishing runner in tailback Mark Weisman (6-0, 225, So.). The transfer from the Air Force Academy has been a great surprise for Iowa in 2012. He has gained 724 yards this season including a team high eight touchdowns. He is not an elusive runner, but he never shies away from contact. Weisman will need to be kept in check by the Cornhusker defense. Injuries have eliminated any depth in the Iowa running game this season.
The passing game has three main weapons. Kevonte Martin-Manley (6-0 205 So.) leads the team with 49 receptions for 552 yards and two touchdowns. Keenan Davis (6-3 215 Sr.) has 46 grabs for 550 yards,while tight end C.J. Fiedorowicz (6-7, 265, Jr.) adds great size with his 39 catches on the year. These receivers all need to play well for Iowa to have an opportunity to upset Nebraska.
Defensively Iowa is strongest at the linebacker spots and in the secondary. As a team the Hawkeyes give up 158 yards rushing, 233 yards passing per contest. and nearly 24 points per game. Weakside linebacker Anthony Hitchens (6-1, 224, Jr.) leads the team with 114 total tackles. Middle linebacker James Morris (6-2, 230, Jr.) follows with 100 tackles this season. Up front defensive end Joe Gaglione (6-4, 264, Sr.) has five sacks and nine tackles for loss this season. This defense will be sorely tested by a Nebraska offense that is very dangerous at all the skill positions.
On special teams, Kicker Mike Meyer (6-2, 185, Jr.) has been solid, converting 17 of 20 (85 percent) of his field goals with a long of 50 yards. Punter Connor Kornbrath (6-6 215 Fr.) averages just over 37 yards per punt. Jordan Cotton (6-1, 185, Jr.) has big play ability as a kick returner and Micah Hyde (6-1, 190, Sr.) a starter at defensive back handles punt returns. Iowa may have a slight edge on special teams in this contest.
Overall Nebraska appears to be the better football team. Iowa is very good in turnover margin, so the Huskers really need to take care of the football away from home. The Hawkeyes are a beat up football team both physically and mentally. They may start quickly on Friday but I believe Nebraska will wear them down in the second half. Look for the Big Red to keep the Heroes Trophy with a 31-13 win over the Hawkeyes on Friday. Thanks for reading Going Deep With Doze.
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Huskers Face Minnesota on Senior Day
The Nebraska Cornhuskers take on the Minnesota Golden Gophers Saturday at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln. Twenty-nine seniors and Tom Osborne will say goodbye to Nebraska fans for the final time from the big stadium on tenth street in Lincoln. The game is set for a 2:45 p.m. (CST) kickoff and will be televised on the Big Ten Network.
Minnesota is 6-4 on the season, coming off of a 17-3 win last week over Illinois. Second year coach Jerry Kill is starting to make Minnesota a quality football team. The offense is led by quarterback Philip Nelson (6-foot-2, 222 Pounds, Freshman). Nelson was being redshirted until four games ago when Coach Kill decided to put him in to run the offense. As a team, Minnesota averages 166 yards rushing per game and 187 yards through the air. Nelson has completed 50 of 90 passes (55.6 percent) with six touchdowns and two interceptions. He is also a good runner averaging just over 40 yards per game rushing. The true freshman though could make some mistakes against a ranked opponent away from home. Max Shortell (6-6, 237, So.) is his backup and could see some time as well.
The running game has been good for the Gophers. Donnell Kirkwood (5-10, 219, So.) leads the team with 819 yards rushing this season and five touchdowns.Rodrick Williams Jr. (5-11, 228, Fr.) is also a fator in the running game. Minnesota will try to keep control of the ball and keep the Husker offense off the field.
The receivers are led by Marqueis Gray (6-5, 250, Sr.) formerly the quarterback who is a physical presence receiving, running, or passing the football. Minnesota has good size at all the receiver positions, but has really been decimated by injuries at those spots. Nebraska may really be able to make Minnesota a one-dimensional football team.
The offensive line is very young for the Gophers. Two freshmen and three sophomores are set to start for Minnesota. This is a small group as well averaging just over 6-3 and 295 from tackle to tackle. This line is more like what Nebraska saw against Arkansas State and Idaho State than the rest of the Big Ten Conference. The Huskers have a major edge up front against the Gophers.
Defensively, Minnesota has been impressive this season. As a team they are 25th in total defense in the nation and seventh against the pass. Overall they give up 22 points per game and 168 yards rushing and 168 yards passing as well per contest. The defense, like the rest of the team is young, but has played well this season. Four players stand out on defense for Minnesota. D.L. Wilhite (6-3, 244, Sr.) is the team leader with 7.5 sacks in 2012 as a defensive end. Defensive tackle Ra’Shede Hageman (6-6, 301, Jr.) adds five sacks and is a good inside run stopper. Cornerback Troy Stoudermire (5-10, 195, Sr.) is the team leader in tackles. Middle linebacker Mike Rallis (6-2, 245, Sr.) is the heart and soul of the defense. The secondary as a group may be one of the best units Nebraska has played this season.
Minnesota is not a great team in the kicking game Kicker Jordan Wettstein (5-11, 180, Sr.) is 12 of 20 (60 percent) on field goals with a long of 44 yards. Punter Christian Eldred ( 6-3, 190, So.) averages just over 38 yards per punt. He came to Minnesota last year from Melbourne, Australia. The return game has not done anything of note for the Gophers recently.
The Gophers have great player in receiver A.J. Barker (6-1, 191, Jr.) who leads the team in catches, yards, and touchdowns, but he is likely out for the game which really limits Minnesota in the passing game and on punt returns. His loss is something Minnesota will definitely feel against an improving Husker defense. The tempo of the Nebraska attack will wear down Minnesota in the second half. The Huskers cannot play sloppy football and beat Minnesota. I believe they will play well at home on Saturday in defeating Minnesota by a score of 42-17. Thanks for reading going deep With Doze.
Minnesota is 6-4 on the season, coming off of a 17-3 win last week over Illinois. Second year coach Jerry Kill is starting to make Minnesota a quality football team. The offense is led by quarterback Philip Nelson (6-foot-2, 222 Pounds, Freshman). Nelson was being redshirted until four games ago when Coach Kill decided to put him in to run the offense. As a team, Minnesota averages 166 yards rushing per game and 187 yards through the air. Nelson has completed 50 of 90 passes (55.6 percent) with six touchdowns and two interceptions. He is also a good runner averaging just over 40 yards per game rushing. The true freshman though could make some mistakes against a ranked opponent away from home. Max Shortell (6-6, 237, So.) is his backup and could see some time as well.
The running game has been good for the Gophers. Donnell Kirkwood (5-10, 219, So.) leads the team with 819 yards rushing this season and five touchdowns.Rodrick Williams Jr. (5-11, 228, Fr.) is also a fator in the running game. Minnesota will try to keep control of the ball and keep the Husker offense off the field.
The receivers are led by Marqueis Gray (6-5, 250, Sr.) formerly the quarterback who is a physical presence receiving, running, or passing the football. Minnesota has good size at all the receiver positions, but has really been decimated by injuries at those spots. Nebraska may really be able to make Minnesota a one-dimensional football team.
The offensive line is very young for the Gophers. Two freshmen and three sophomores are set to start for Minnesota. This is a small group as well averaging just over 6-3 and 295 from tackle to tackle. This line is more like what Nebraska saw against Arkansas State and Idaho State than the rest of the Big Ten Conference. The Huskers have a major edge up front against the Gophers.
Defensively, Minnesota has been impressive this season. As a team they are 25th in total defense in the nation and seventh against the pass. Overall they give up 22 points per game and 168 yards rushing and 168 yards passing as well per contest. The defense, like the rest of the team is young, but has played well this season. Four players stand out on defense for Minnesota. D.L. Wilhite (6-3, 244, Sr.) is the team leader with 7.5 sacks in 2012 as a defensive end. Defensive tackle Ra’Shede Hageman (6-6, 301, Jr.) adds five sacks and is a good inside run stopper. Cornerback Troy Stoudermire (5-10, 195, Sr.) is the team leader in tackles. Middle linebacker Mike Rallis (6-2, 245, Sr.) is the heart and soul of the defense. The secondary as a group may be one of the best units Nebraska has played this season.
Minnesota is not a great team in the kicking game Kicker Jordan Wettstein (5-11, 180, Sr.) is 12 of 20 (60 percent) on field goals with a long of 44 yards. Punter Christian Eldred ( 6-3, 190, So.) averages just over 38 yards per punt. He came to Minnesota last year from Melbourne, Australia. The return game has not done anything of note for the Gophers recently.
The Gophers have great player in receiver A.J. Barker (6-1, 191, Jr.) who leads the team in catches, yards, and touchdowns, but he is likely out for the game which really limits Minnesota in the passing game and on punt returns. His loss is something Minnesota will definitely feel against an improving Husker defense. The tempo of the Nebraska attack will wear down Minnesota in the second half. The Huskers cannot play sloppy football and beat Minnesota. I believe they will play well at home on Saturday in defeating Minnesota by a score of 42-17. Thanks for reading going deep With Doze.
Saturday, November 10, 2012
Nebraska Faces Tough Penn State Squad
Nebraska tangles Saturday with a tested Penn State team on at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln. The game is set for a 2:35 p.m. (CST) kickoff and will be televised by ABC.
The Nittany Lions are 6-3 on the season. Bill O'Brien is in his first year as the head coach. He has sold his team on a disciplined approach that has led to a very successful season after an 0-2 start. O'Brien was the offensive coordinator for the New England Patriots, so he is known for his pro-style offensive attack. His team makes few mistakes and will be a challenge for the Cornhuskers to beat.
Quarterback Matt McGloin (6-foot-1, 201 Pounds, Senior) leads the way for the offense. He has made great decisions this season for Penn State. McGloin is a drop back passer that is no threat to run outside of the pocket. So far in 2012 McGloin has completed 62.7 percent (211 of 340) of his passes with 18 touchdowns and only three interceptions. He throws for just over 270 yards per game. McGloin looks to pass a great deal to his tight ends, much in the way Tom Brady does for New England in the National Football League.
The top target in the passing game is Allen Robinson (6-3, 201, So.). He leads the Big 10 Conference with 57 receptions. He averages over 76 yards receiving per game with eight touchdowns on the season. Tight end Kyle Carter (6-3, 247, Fr.) has 35 catches for 441 yards on the season. The passing game has hurt Penn State opponents this season.
The Nittany Lions average 140 yards per game running the football. Several backs will see action for Penn State. Zach Swinak (6-1, 232, So.) is a good physical runner that averages 60 yards a game with three touchdowns on the season. Bill Belton (5-10, 202, So.) adds 43 yards a game with three touchdowns this season. Fullback Michael Zordich (6-1, 236, Sr.) is a fine lead blocker that will run tough inside as well.
The offensive line protects McGloin well. Fom tackle to tackle the Nittany Lions average 6-4 and 306 pounds per man. Center Matt Stankiewitch (6-3, 301, Sr.) and right tackle Mike Farrell (6-6, 306, Sr.) lead the way. This group is better pass protecting than run blocking in 2012.
Penn State has always been known for defense. this season that is again the case. As a team they allow 123 yards rushing and 211yards passing per game. The also have a tough scoring defense, giving up only 17 points per game. Up front Jordan Hill (6-1, 292, Sr.) has been impressive at tackle but he has had some trecent injuries and is questionable for the game. The linebackers are outstanding. Michael Mauti (6-2, 232, Sr.) is likely the best linebacker in the conference. He runs the field and makes plays. Mauti also leads the team with three interceptions and 83 total tackles. The secondary is very small and the weakest group of a strong defensive unit.
The Nittany Lions have been poor in the kicking game. Kicker Sam Ficken (6-3, 172, So.) is only 7 of 14 on field goals with a long of only 34 yards and has missed two extra points. Punter Alex Butterworth (5-10, 206, Jr.) averages just over 36 yards per punt. Penn State also has not been impressive in the return game.
Nebraska has a major edge on special teams, the offense has more depth of talent while Penn State may show an advantage on defense. The Huskers need to play with focus and intensity on Saturday. If the Big Red plays with passion and limits mistakes, they are the better football team. Penn State starts fast, outscoring team 76-3 in the first quarter. I believe Nebraska will come out sharp and win 31-20 over Penn State on Saturday. Thanks for reading Going Deep With Doze.
The Nittany Lions are 6-3 on the season. Bill O'Brien is in his first year as the head coach. He has sold his team on a disciplined approach that has led to a very successful season after an 0-2 start. O'Brien was the offensive coordinator for the New England Patriots, so he is known for his pro-style offensive attack. His team makes few mistakes and will be a challenge for the Cornhuskers to beat.
Quarterback Matt McGloin (6-foot-1, 201 Pounds, Senior) leads the way for the offense. He has made great decisions this season for Penn State. McGloin is a drop back passer that is no threat to run outside of the pocket. So far in 2012 McGloin has completed 62.7 percent (211 of 340) of his passes with 18 touchdowns and only three interceptions. He throws for just over 270 yards per game. McGloin looks to pass a great deal to his tight ends, much in the way Tom Brady does for New England in the National Football League.
The top target in the passing game is Allen Robinson (6-3, 201, So.). He leads the Big 10 Conference with 57 receptions. He averages over 76 yards receiving per game with eight touchdowns on the season. Tight end Kyle Carter (6-3, 247, Fr.) has 35 catches for 441 yards on the season. The passing game has hurt Penn State opponents this season.
The Nittany Lions average 140 yards per game running the football. Several backs will see action for Penn State. Zach Swinak (6-1, 232, So.) is a good physical runner that averages 60 yards a game with three touchdowns on the season. Bill Belton (5-10, 202, So.) adds 43 yards a game with three touchdowns this season. Fullback Michael Zordich (6-1, 236, Sr.) is a fine lead blocker that will run tough inside as well.
The offensive line protects McGloin well. Fom tackle to tackle the Nittany Lions average 6-4 and 306 pounds per man. Center Matt Stankiewitch (6-3, 301, Sr.) and right tackle Mike Farrell (6-6, 306, Sr.) lead the way. This group is better pass protecting than run blocking in 2012.
Penn State has always been known for defense. this season that is again the case. As a team they allow 123 yards rushing and 211yards passing per game. The also have a tough scoring defense, giving up only 17 points per game. Up front Jordan Hill (6-1, 292, Sr.) has been impressive at tackle but he has had some trecent injuries and is questionable for the game. The linebackers are outstanding. Michael Mauti (6-2, 232, Sr.) is likely the best linebacker in the conference. He runs the field and makes plays. Mauti also leads the team with three interceptions and 83 total tackles. The secondary is very small and the weakest group of a strong defensive unit.
The Nittany Lions have been poor in the kicking game. Kicker Sam Ficken (6-3, 172, So.) is only 7 of 14 on field goals with a long of only 34 yards and has missed two extra points. Punter Alex Butterworth (5-10, 206, Jr.) averages just over 36 yards per punt. Penn State also has not been impressive in the return game.
Nebraska has a major edge on special teams, the offense has more depth of talent while Penn State may show an advantage on defense. The Huskers need to play with focus and intensity on Saturday. If the Big Red plays with passion and limits mistakes, they are the better football team. Penn State starts fast, outscoring team 76-3 in the first quarter. I believe Nebraska will come out sharp and win 31-20 over Penn State on Saturday. Thanks for reading Going Deep With Doze.
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