Huskers Offense Must Find Rhythm

Published: 26^th Dec 11 1:14 am

Paul Troupe
Paul Troupe

RANT It!

Ron Chenoy-US PRESSWIRE

Nebraska comes into the Capitol One Bowl Game looking to defeat a top 10 SEC opponent, and make a big statement for the B1G 10 Conference. Jim Delany likes the B1G matchups against the best of the best, which just happens to come from the Southeastern Conference.

This is clearly going to be no easy game for the Huskers. Nebraska can do itself a bunch of favors if its offense can do something. Nebraska struggled in games versus Wisconsin and Michigan because the offense could not stay on the field. When you turn the ball over or cannot sustain drives, that is a lot of pressure on the defense.

Though the Gamecocks are not offensive juggernaut, I still do not want to see the defense out their for more than it has to be. Turnovers, 3 and outs, etc, will force the defense, and can turn momentum.

So what does Nebraska need to do?

First, I’d start with that running game. Run the Toss, Counter, Speed Option, Reverses, etc, whatever it takes to get that running game going downhill. This also entails that the big boys up front block. Where have the legs of Taylor Martinez gone? He needs to take a few runs and get some yards, while keeping his hands on the ball.

Then I’d mix in some combinations of screens, short routes, and the occasional deep ball to keep the Gamecocks’ defense honest. Nebraska needs to get Jamal Turner, Rex Burkhead, and the trio of freshmen in space and let them run.

If Nebraska can do this, they have a great chance of winning this game and beating a big bad SEC team. This would be a nice building block for the Huskers for next season, where expectations are sure to be high again. Let’s hope the Huskers come out ready to roll.