Bill Callahan finally has Nebraska back to where it wants to be, expecting to challenge for Big XII titles. While Nebraska is a step below the class of the Big XII South, it should be the year in year out favorite to win the Big XII’s North Division (although a trip to Columbia this year may halt those plans). While the option offense and “black shirt” defense may be left in the Osborn era, lofty expectations are back to stay.
Projected Record and Bowl Result: 10-3 Beat Fresno State* in Insight Bowl
Who they’ll beat: Nevada (Home), Wake Forest (Road), Ball State (Home), Iowa State (Home), Oklahoma State (Home), Texas A&M (Home), Kansas (Home), Kansas State (Home), Colorado (Road), Fresno State (Tempe, AZ)
Who’ll beat them: USC (Home), Missouri (Road), Texas (Road)
When they Pass: Arizona State transfer Sam Keller will likely take over for Zac Taylor and lead Bill Callahan’s West Coast Offense. Keller has the size, strength and experience to lead the Cornhuskers to places. To do so, his options will be seniors Terrence Nunn and Maurice Purify.
When they Run: Marlon Lucky and Cody Glenn will try to replace Brandon Jackson’s run production from last year. Durability is an issue with both men.
When their Opponents Run: Linebackers Corey McKeon and Bo Ruud are the leaders of the defense and will have an entirely new defensive line in front of them. The development of the D-Line and their ability to stop the run will be the difference between a good season in Lincoln and a special one.
When their Opponents Pass: Cornerback Zachary Bowman is a former shut-down corner trying to return from an ACL injury, if he is able to return to his 2005 form, this pass defense could be among the best in the Big XII.
When they Kick: Adi Kunalic takes over the field goal kicking duties after Jordan Congdon left the team. Kunalic is a freshman which should make Husker fans nervous in close 4th quarter games.
When they call Timeout: Callahan’s style seems to fit Nebraska football much more than the dysfunctional family known as the Oakland Raiders. I’m sure it is safe to say he doesn’t miss Oakland right now. It’s a little much for him to be as revered as Tom Osborn was in Lincoln but if he can get Nebraska to the next step and perennial BCS appearances, that will certainly help.
*Qualifier to fill slot unable to be filled by Big Ten team
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