12/18/10
The Huskers have back-to-back 10-win seasons for the first time since 2000 and 2001. The formula they utilize will not be altered no matter whether participating in the Big 12 or their new home for next season...the Big Ten. But that usual formula of running with the ball, playing solid defense and the kicking of Alex Henery has a few missing links. The offensive line losses three full-time starters, big I-back Roy Helu is gone and Henery graduates to a hopeful future in the NFL. All is not lost, especially considering that youthful quarterback Taylor Martinez is what made this offense click the past season. His wheels are the weapons but it will be very important for Martinez to develop more of a passing threat to evolve in the smash-mouth style of the Big Ten. One aspect does fit this scheme...the ability to be physical is a plus in the confines of their new conference and Nebraska certainly knows how to do that. The defensive line is a great place to start. With Jared Crick leading the way from his tackle spot, this has the potential to be a run stuffing operation. The stout secondary has some serious reloading to do so expect there to be some drop off here. The truth is that Nebraska probably had a better preseason outlook heading into 2010. Too many key players will be departing for the Huskers to be expected to push for a Rose Bowl bid while adjusting to a new conference. The plus side is that head coach Bo Pelini has taught his team a winning mentality, in particular on the defensive side. With a healthy Taylor Martinez behind center and an athletic Rex Burkhead taking over at running back, the personnel loses won't hurt too much.