The 2009 version of the Texas Tech game of last year was played today at Virginia Tech. The Cornhuskers played well most of the game but was disappointed at the end of the game. Like the game last year, Nebraska had a number of times to put the game away but just wasn't able to.
Score NU 12 VT 10. With 2:21 to go in the third quarter Zac Lee runs seventeen yards to the six yard line. The TV announcers say that NU has to convert these redzone opportunities to touchdowns. With 1:55 in the third quarter to go, Zac Lee hits Mike McNiel for a touchdown. NU 18 VT 10. NU has this one won. Whoops!! Flag on NU for holding. No touchdown. Now its first and goal from the sixteen.
Another flag. First flag on the right guard, second one on the left guard. First and goal from the 21. Zac Lee hits Menelik Holt for a touchdown!!!! Both feet down but the ball comes rolling out when he hits the ground. No touchdown. Score is still 12-10. What is going on!
Lee runs for five yards but another flag. 1:43 to go in the third. Third holding call since first and goal at the six. Now it is second and goal on the 31. We have lost 25 yards to penalties and had two touchdowns not happen. Lee throws the ball away. We are looking at a 48 yard field goal right now. Third and goal from the 31 now. Whoops another flag. False start!!!!! Now it is third and goal from the 36. Lee is tackled for a yard loss and the ball is on the 37 or 38 yard line. It would be a 54 or 55 yard field goal! Reachable. Wind is about five miles an hour. Nope we are punting to try to back them up at the goal line. SO we punt on fourth and goal from the 38 yard line due to so many penalties I won't even summarize them all. No points after all of this.
I am sure I can get the window fixed in the living room before my wife gets home. I threw something and broke it. I wonder what I threw. Hope that wasn't our good vase. Well its my wife's vase. I could care less right now. She won't be home until Sunday. At least we are still leading 12-10.
At the end of the third quarter, NU has 271 yards of total offense and VT has 142 yards. Most of the Virginia Tech yards were from the first two drives of the game.
With 11:21 to go in the game, Tyrod Taylor is 6-16 for 65 yards. Nebraska is leading 12-10. Taylor throws a pass that Prince Amukamara looks like he has picked off for a touchdown, but is actually completed for a 14 yard gain. Even with that, Virginia Tech only has 167 total yards. Three plays later on third and four, Suh bats down his fourth pass of the day.
With 7:05 to go in the game, Corenski Gilleylen is wide open for what could have been a touchdown but the ball floats to the sideline and Gilleylen makes a nice catch for a 34 yard gain. A more accurate throw would have been a touchdown. It doesn't matter, we will win anyway. Nebraska is stopped on a third and three. With Nebraska not able to reach the endzone, Henery kicks his fifth field goal of the game. With 4:33 to go NU 15-VT 10.
No problem, VT's offense is nil and the Nebraska defense is dominating. With 3:25 to go VT converts on a third and four by a 1/2 yard. Nebraska gets the ball back with after Taylor misses WR Roberts who is wide open for what could have been a touchdown. Boy we are lucky to win this game. That could have been a bad deal!
NU has the ball on the VT 46 with 2:07 to go. Helu for two yards. Zac Lee runs for three yards. Its third and five with 1:56 to go. Lee runs for four yards and just misses a first down. 1:51 to go. Nebraska punts to the twelve yard line. 1:44 to go.
Before the drive starts, NU is flagged for too many men on the field. The announcer says, "You wonder if Virginia Tech could score if Nebraska only had seven or eight men on the field." We're doomed.
Jared Crick tackles Taylor after a one yard gain. Second and four with 1:35 to play. Then Taylor hits a wide open WR Coale for a 81 yard gain. Blown coverage!!! He is tackled out on the three. 1:11 to play. My gut feels like I just swallowed a dozen jalapeno peppers!!
Next play O'Hanlon sacks Taylor for a seven yard loss. :54 seconds to go. No timeouts. Ball on the ten. Taylor then throws the ball away on the next play after being rushed. :33 seconds to go. We will hold them.
With :21 seconds left, Taylor has Suh trying to drag him down but throws to WR Roberts for a touchdown. The ball looks like it goes right through Prince Amukamara's arm. VT 16- NU 15. Geezzz! 88 yards in five plays after they were completely held to nothing the whole half. Put a gallon of horseradish and a quart of prune juice on those peppers. I can hear my stomach gurgling like the ocean. Breathing is becoming erratic.
VT goes for two and fails.
Burkhead runs the kickoff out of the end zone. Result is :18 seconds left and NU has the ball on its own 15. This doesn't look good.
Lee hits Paul for a nineteen yard gain to the 34 but NU is penalized for wrong alignment. NU was only 25 yards from a field goal. :12 seconds left. Ball on the 10.
Last play of the game is an Our Father and VT intercepts. Game over. VT 16- NU 15. I am headed to the bathroom and I am not sure which end things are going to come out.
Helu, Suh, and Henery had great games!
Oh and by the way, outside was a broken glass chicken that used to sit on our table and went through the window somehow. I got to think of a good story for this so I probably better go. What's a Hokie anyway????? I hope they are some kind of chicken cause that could go with my story. This may be a case where it might be good if the sun didn't come up tomorrow.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
This will be a close one!
Virginia Tech will be a test on their home field. Has Nebraska moved up to that level? Yes. We are improved and this game will be a good one.
Zac Lee has played brilliantly in the first two games. But this team will be up two or three notches in talent so the end results may be different. Lee will need to be more careful in some of his throws or we will be looking at a couple of interceptions. For us to win, he will need to use his speed to run more often. This will keep Virginia Tech honest. Lee may be our rushing leader on Saturday. If he is, we will win.
The rushing offense will have a tougher time of making yards. Look for the NU rushing backs to be below four yards a carry. It just won't be as easy.
On defense, we can't play like we did against Arkansas State on nine or ten plays. On these plays there were defensive linemen getting knocked back at times and the linebackers were also going backwards. In addition we were missing tackles. Saturday that could result in 14-17 points.
So to win. we have to be careful with the ball. Play it a little safer. Zac Lee needs to run more. Our rushing attack has to be consistently good with positive yards on all plays. The defense has to attack. Larry Asante had his best game as a Cornhusker last Saturday. We will need to play the nickel and dime defense more even if they are running the ball. Hagg and Thorell have been more consistent on the field on all plays than when our base defense has been.
Look for Zac Lee, Roy Helu, Menelik Holt, and Dreu Young to have great games on offense. On defense, look for Eric Hagg, N. Suh, Barry Turner, and Larry Asante to star in the game.
In a close one, as hard as it is to write, Virginia Tech 28, Nebraska 27. Boy do I hope we can win this one though. It would be a huge boost to the program.
Zac Lee has played brilliantly in the first two games. But this team will be up two or three notches in talent so the end results may be different. Lee will need to be more careful in some of his throws or we will be looking at a couple of interceptions. For us to win, he will need to use his speed to run more often. This will keep Virginia Tech honest. Lee may be our rushing leader on Saturday. If he is, we will win.
The rushing offense will have a tougher time of making yards. Look for the NU rushing backs to be below four yards a carry. It just won't be as easy.
On defense, we can't play like we did against Arkansas State on nine or ten plays. On these plays there were defensive linemen getting knocked back at times and the linebackers were also going backwards. In addition we were missing tackles. Saturday that could result in 14-17 points.
So to win. we have to be careful with the ball. Play it a little safer. Zac Lee needs to run more. Our rushing attack has to be consistently good with positive yards on all plays. The defense has to attack. Larry Asante had his best game as a Cornhusker last Saturday. We will need to play the nickel and dime defense more even if they are running the ball. Hagg and Thorell have been more consistent on the field on all plays than when our base defense has been.
Look for Zac Lee, Roy Helu, Menelik Holt, and Dreu Young to have great games on offense. On defense, look for Eric Hagg, N. Suh, Barry Turner, and Larry Asante to star in the game.
In a close one, as hard as it is to write, Virginia Tech 28, Nebraska 27. Boy do I hope we can win this one though. It would be a huge boost to the program.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Thursday, September 10, 2009
BEWARE OF THE WOLVES!!
The Toddler has struck again!! He is the writer for collegefootballtopten.com. I remember his prediction last year when he said Arkansas State would knock off Texas A & M. He is not quite as bold this year but you can tell he feels like they have a chance to win. Read his article! Great reading!
collegefootballtopten.com
I respect his opinion, but the Cornhuskers will win and the defense will be dominant. No 61 points this week for the Red Wolves! This could be a game similar to when Arkansas State visited Texas two years ago and almost won. They ended up losing 21-13. But Nebraska should do better than that Texas team did.
Special teams will be huge this week. Look for two touchdowns from the special teams and one touchdown for the defense and we have a 41-3 victory. They will be tougher than most fans give them credit for but in the end, the depth of Nebraska bring them to a nice victory. No doubt that they were dominant last week but they haven't played in Lincoln and this team isn't Texas A & M of last year.
Look to the Huskers to be hitting harder this week. Competition for positions continue so there should be no letup.
What should be interesting is how we defense them. They have a lot of no back and one back sets so will the nickel and dime defense be on the field a lot. Or because they run the ball so well, will we be playing the pass and seeing the run a lot. Either way Bo Pelini will have it figured out, no doubt, and the Huskers will play a great defensive game.
Remember 41-3!!
Read the latest on recruit Tyler Moore.
huskerjournal.com
I respect his opinion, but the Cornhuskers will win and the defense will be dominant. No 61 points this week for the Red Wolves! This could be a game similar to when Arkansas State visited Texas two years ago and almost won. They ended up losing 21-13. But Nebraska should do better than that Texas team did.
Special teams will be huge this week. Look for two touchdowns from the special teams and one touchdown for the defense and we have a 41-3 victory. They will be tougher than most fans give them credit for but in the end, the depth of Nebraska bring them to a nice victory. No doubt that they were dominant last week but they haven't played in Lincoln and this team isn't Texas A & M of last year.
Look to the Huskers to be hitting harder this week. Competition for positions continue so there should be no letup.
What should be interesting is how we defense them. They have a lot of no back and one back sets so will the nickel and dime defense be on the field a lot. Or because they run the ball so well, will we be playing the pass and seeing the run a lot. Either way Bo Pelini will have it figured out, no doubt, and the Huskers will play a great defensive game.
Remember 41-3!!
Read the latest on recruit Tyler Moore.
Wednesday, September 09, 2009
Tuesday, September 08, 2009
Nebraska gets three commits this week!
Ciante Evans, a cornerback from Texas, committed tonight to Nebraska. Also today, Nebraska got a commit from Walter Ashburn from Louisiana. Ashburn is a defensive end. Early this week, NU got a commit from Harvey Jackson, a cornerback from Texas. That makes eight commits. Three are from Texas, two from Nebraska, one from Louisiana, Missouri, and Colorado.
Monday, September 07, 2009
Observations from the Florida Atlantic game
Howard Schnellenberger said after the game Saturday that Nebraska doesn't have a lot of great players but the sum of the parts makes a very good team. He was saying that as a compliment. Nebraska is not weak in any positions. They are deep and they are young which means we only get better as the season goes on.
Watching the Florida St./Miami game tonight makes me think that NU has closed the gap. Yes speed is evident woth the Florida teams but you didn't see our quarterback throw balls up for grabs like I am seeing these teams do.
Strengths
1.The defensive line looks really good. Suh is an All-American. Cameron Meredith is a great back-up to Barry Turner. Baker Steinkuhler played very well.
2. The linebackers played well especially for as young as we are.
3. The secondary overall was good. Remember Florida Atlantic probably had the best QB, tight end, and wide receiver in the Sun Belt Conference.
4. Helu was, you know, pretty good. Burkhead is going to be special also.
5. Zac Lee had some really great throws. The throw to McNeil was as good as it gets. He can throw the ball with accurancy. Receivers dropped four balls during the game. He can run too and should a little more. Cody Green has a ways to go but like Burkhead, he will be special.
6. The offensive line is as good as we have seen in many years. Maybe back to the Championship years. They are deep.
7. Holt and Gilleylen played great. Almost forgot about Swift and Peterson. Holt put on some moves and Gilleylen is just plain fast.
8. The tight end position is very very strong with a lot of playmakers. Watch for Tyler Reed to do some special things this year and McNeil is hard to beat.
9. Nobody hits harder than Ricky Thenarse.
Weaknesses
1. Penalties, penalties
2. Who can be the 3rd and 4th team running backs? We will need them before the season is over.
3. Two major missed assignments on defense with a fullback catching the ball and nobody close to him and also the defensive back running across the field away from the wide receiver and that wide receiver catching the ball in a wide open field.
4. Defense needs to be ready for a hurry-up offense
5. Where was the blocking on the blocked punt?
6. No sacks by the defense however the QB was very quick in throwing the ball away.
7. We need a couple of more receivers to step up with Holt and Gilleylen.
8. Play clock got close a few times of running out but overall better than the past few years and pretty good for a first game.
I would give the Cornhuskers a B+ after the first game. They are young. On offense, besides Hickman and Holt, you have underclassmen. The defense is about the same. The question is "How good is Florida Atlantic?" We will see.
How about Pat Ackerman and those UNK players knocking off UNO. What a victory!! Ackerman is a Holdrege High graduate and is a team captain for the Lopers. He ended the game with nine tackles. Great job Pat!!
Watching the Florida St./Miami game tonight makes me think that NU has closed the gap. Yes speed is evident woth the Florida teams but you didn't see our quarterback throw balls up for grabs like I am seeing these teams do.
Strengths
1.The defensive line looks really good. Suh is an All-American. Cameron Meredith is a great back-up to Barry Turner. Baker Steinkuhler played very well.
2. The linebackers played well especially for as young as we are.
3. The secondary overall was good. Remember Florida Atlantic probably had the best QB, tight end, and wide receiver in the Sun Belt Conference.
4. Helu was, you know, pretty good. Burkhead is going to be special also.
5. Zac Lee had some really great throws. The throw to McNeil was as good as it gets. He can throw the ball with accurancy. Receivers dropped four balls during the game. He can run too and should a little more. Cody Green has a ways to go but like Burkhead, he will be special.
6. The offensive line is as good as we have seen in many years. Maybe back to the Championship years. They are deep.
7. Holt and Gilleylen played great. Almost forgot about Swift and Peterson. Holt put on some moves and Gilleylen is just plain fast.
8. The tight end position is very very strong with a lot of playmakers. Watch for Tyler Reed to do some special things this year and McNeil is hard to beat.
9. Nobody hits harder than Ricky Thenarse.
Weaknesses
1. Penalties, penalties
2. Who can be the 3rd and 4th team running backs? We will need them before the season is over.
3. Two major missed assignments on defense with a fullback catching the ball and nobody close to him and also the defensive back running across the field away from the wide receiver and that wide receiver catching the ball in a wide open field.
4. Defense needs to be ready for a hurry-up offense
5. Where was the blocking on the blocked punt?
6. No sacks by the defense however the QB was very quick in throwing the ball away.
7. We need a couple of more receivers to step up with Holt and Gilleylen.
8. Play clock got close a few times of running out but overall better than the past few years and pretty good for a first game.
I would give the Cornhuskers a B+ after the first game. They are young. On offense, besides Hickman and Holt, you have underclassmen. The defense is about the same. The question is "How good is Florida Atlantic?" We will see.
How about Pat Ackerman and those UNK players knocking off UNO. What a victory!! Ackerman is a Holdrege High graduate and is a team captain for the Lopers. He ended the game with nine tackles. Great job Pat!!
Friday, September 04, 2009
Nebraskans in the NFL
Steve Octavian had six tackles and an interception tonight for the Dallas Cowboys. The interception was returned for 44 yards and a touchdown!!!
One of the Ruud's had seven tackles tonight and the other one tackle for Tampa Bay. Bo and Barrett are both playing for the Buccaneers.
One of the Ruud's had seven tackles tonight and the other one tackle for Tampa Bay. Bo and Barrett are both playing for the Buccaneers.
Thursday, September 03, 2009
Oregon's Blount punches Boise St player in jaw at end of game!
Former NU player and Oregon Asst Coach Scott Frost had to restrain Oregon player LaGarrett Blount at the end of the Oregon-Boise St. game tonight. Blount punched one of the Boise St players at the end of the game and Frost and police restrained him and literally carried him out off the field.
Blount had said before the game that Oregon owed Boise St an ---whoopem.
Blount had said before the game that Oregon owed Boise St an ---whoopem.
Danny Woodhead has great night for the Jets!
Danny Woodhead had a great night. The North Platte native, who played college at Chadron State, had 18 carries for 158 yards and two touchdowns tonight for the Jets vs. the Philadelphis Eagles. He ended the night with a 8.8 yard average. He caught one pass for ten yards and had a kickoff return of 31 yards. WOW!!
Todd Peterson had one catch for nine yards for the Jaquars. Cody Glen had one tackle for Washington.
Cincinnati Bengal Maurice Purify had one catch for seven yards. Titus Adams had three tackles for the Patriots tonight.
For the Bears. Josh Bullocks had four tackles with Zach Bowman making two tackles.
Saint Scott Shanle had one tackle. Correll Buckhalter had three runs for 24 yards for the Broncos. Nate Swift returned two punts for 17 yards.
Cuts are coming soon so we will see how many Huskers make it. Danny Woodhead looks like he is in pretty good shape.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Pelini expressed his values at Football 202!
At the Football 202 program in July, Coach Bo Pelini made it clear that he feels his job is not about X'x and O's and winning football games. He made it clear that his job is to prepare young kids for the rest of their life. He emphasized that kids must compete daily, follow their outlayed process and be accountable. He wasn't talking about football. He was mostly talking about what the players do off the field. He was passionate and serious about his statements.
"Every decision you make impacts who you are. (Players) must worry about their day to day activities. That's their main priority." Later he said "Love unconditionally. Sometimes its tough love."
Hopefully Quentin Castille learned from this experience. Pelini helped him find another college. I think this week we did learn that football is more than X's and O's from Coach Pelini. He has practiced what he preached.
"Every decision you make impacts who you are. (Players) must worry about their day to day activities. That's their main priority." Later he said "Love unconditionally. Sometimes its tough love."
Hopefully Quentin Castille learned from this experience. Pelini helped him find another college. I think this week we did learn that football is more than X's and O's from Coach Pelini. He has practiced what he preached.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Huskers in the NFL!
Maurice Purify had one catch for 22 yards for Cincinnati tonight. Todd Peterson had two catches for 21 yards, with one being the last play of the game. He is trying to make the Jacksonville team and has had a few catches this year.
Bo Ruud made his debut tonight playing for Tampa Bay. He is now playing with his brother Barrett.
Bo Ruud made his debut tonight playing for Tampa Bay. He is now playing with his brother Barrett.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Monday, August 24, 2009
NU will romp against the Florida Atlantic Owls!
Who is Florida Atlantic? Florida Atlantic is coached by Howard Schnellenberger. If you haven't forgotten by now, Schnellenberger led the Miami Hurricanes to victory over the Nebraska Cornhuskers in the national championship game on January 2, 1984. The Cornhuskers had Gill, Rozier, and Fryar that year and, prior to the game, they were picked by some as the best college team ever. This is the game that NU went for two points and didn't convert towards the end of the game. The undefeated team went down 31-30.
The Owls play their home games at Lockhart Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and are members of the Sun Belt Conference.
The Owls are led by Rusty Smith, the Pre-Season Sun Belt Conference Co-Player of the Year for 2009. TE Jamari Grant also has received some preseason honors. The offense is their strong point but the NU defense should keep them in check most of the game. NU will have four turnovers in this game.
The 2008 Florida Atlantic team was 7-6. They lost a lot of key players on defense this year so the Huskers should be able to score quite a few points.
Florida Atlantic will run the spread offense. Nebraska will defend with the nickel and dime sets much of the game.
So look to Florida Atlantic to score the first two possessions of the game with a touchdown and a field goal. They will also score late in the game to have a total of 17 points. Nebraska will score often during this game with a lot of players scoring. The NU defense will score at least one touchdown. NU will be able to score on the ground and through the air.
Zac Lee should run for one touchdown and throw for three touchdowns, with one being a tight end. Helu and Ward will score on the ground along with Lee and Henery will kick two FG's.
Final Nebraska 55
Florida Atlantic 17
The Owls play their home games at Lockhart Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and are members of the Sun Belt Conference.
The Owls are led by Rusty Smith, the Pre-Season Sun Belt Conference Co-Player of the Year for 2009. TE Jamari Grant also has received some preseason honors. The offense is their strong point but the NU defense should keep them in check most of the game. NU will have four turnovers in this game.
The 2008 Florida Atlantic team was 7-6. They lost a lot of key players on defense this year so the Huskers should be able to score quite a few points.
Florida Atlantic will run the spread offense. Nebraska will defend with the nickel and dime sets much of the game.
So look to Florida Atlantic to score the first two possessions of the game with a touchdown and a field goal. They will also score late in the game to have a total of 17 points. Nebraska will score often during this game with a lot of players scoring. The NU defense will score at least one touchdown. NU will be able to score on the ground and through the air.
Zac Lee should run for one touchdown and throw for three touchdowns, with one being a tight end. Helu and Ward will score on the ground along with Lee and Henery will kick two FG's.
Final Nebraska 55
Florida Atlantic 17
Sunday, August 23, 2009
What's new?
Steve Octavien had two tackles for Dallas on Friday night. Todd Peterson had a catch for 11 yards for Jacksonville. Cody Glenn had two tackles for Washington. For Green Bay, Brandon Jackson had twelve yards rushing and one reception. Scott Shanle had one tackle for New Orleans. Jay Moore had a tackle for the 49ers. Nate Swift had on catch for four yards for Denver. Correll Buckhalter had 15 yards rushing and had one catch for eight yards. LeKevin Smith had one tackle in his debut for Denver.
Former Beatrice player, Xavier Omon had a rushing touchdown and two receptions for 61 yards playing for the Bills.
Quentin Castille's dismissal is not good for NU football. Don't get me wrong, if he was let go, I am sure he deserved it. It was just the tandem of Helu and Castille was a pretty good deal. Two different running styles with two great backs. Don't forget Rex Burkhead is a freshman who is still learning. Obviously he has a ton of talent but I would guess he runs a lot like Helu. Oh well, Castille is gone so let's get ready for the next good back to arise. Burkhead, Ward, Okafor, or maybe Robinson. Should be fun. But in a year we needed to run, run, run, our machine may have sheared a bolt. It can be fixed and I am sure it will be quickly.
Former Beatrice player, Xavier Omon had a rushing touchdown and two receptions for 61 yards playing for the Bills.
Quentin Castille's dismissal is not good for NU football. Don't get me wrong, if he was let go, I am sure he deserved it. It was just the tandem of Helu and Castille was a pretty good deal. Two different running styles with two great backs. Don't forget Rex Burkhead is a freshman who is still learning. Obviously he has a ton of talent but I would guess he runs a lot like Helu. Oh well, Castille is gone so let's get ready for the next good back to arise. Burkhead, Ward, Okafor, or maybe Robinson. Should be fun. But in a year we needed to run, run, run, our machine may have sheared a bolt. It can be fixed and I am sure it will be quickly.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Terrace Nunn and Marlon Lucky have good games.
Terrance Nunn had four catches for 53 yards for New England and Marlon Lucky ran for 12 yards on two carries tonight in a game between Cincinnati and New England.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Around the Big 12 and other things
Read the following sites to catch up as to what is new in sports and the Big 12.
burntorangenation
tulsaworld
Look where Matt Davison is on this poll!
reddirtkings
bigredreport
statesman.com
stltoday.com
Look where Matt Davison is on this poll!
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Nebraskans in the NFL
Josh Bullocks had two tackles for the Bears vs. Buffalo. Brandon Jackson had 41 yards on eight carries for Green Bay against Cleveland. Demorrio Williams had two tackles for Kansas City vs. Houston. Kris Brown had three field goals and an extra point for Houston.
Vince Young outplayed Kerry Collins at quarterback yesterday in their game against Tampa bay.
Barrett Ruud had one tackle for Tampa Bay. Kyle Vanden Bosch had two tackles against the Bucs.
Alex Henery and Brett Maher are battling for the punting job! Henery looked the best in the spring.
Offensive lineman Brent Qvale is impressing the coaches as he is practicing with the second team with the injury to Ricky Henry.
Coach Bo Pelini said there is no doubt the Huskers have more depth this year at defensive end. Cooper and Meredith back up Turner and Allen. David Harvey is impressing along with freshman Jason Ankrah.
Wide receiver Brandon Kinnie is impressing the coaches during the fall session.
The Huskers have Sunday off.
Vince Young outplayed Kerry Collins at quarterback yesterday in their game against Tampa bay.
Barrett Ruud had one tackle for Tampa Bay. Kyle Vanden Bosch had two tackles against the Bucs.
Alex Henery and Brett Maher are battling for the punting job! Henery looked the best in the spring.
Offensive lineman Brent Qvale is impressing the coaches as he is practicing with the second team with the injury to Ricky Henry.
Coach Bo Pelini said there is no doubt the Huskers have more depth this year at defensive end. Cooper and Meredith back up Turner and Allen. David Harvey is impressing along with freshman Jason Ankrah.
Wide receiver Brandon Kinnie is impressing the coaches during the fall session.
The Huskers have Sunday off.
Friday, August 14, 2009
NFL Stats on Friday Night
Danny Woodhead ran for five yards on six carries Friday night against the Rams. He also let the Jets in return yardage with 45 on two kickoff returns. Josh Brown had three field goals for the Rams
Maurice Purify had two catches for 17 yards vs. the Saints. Scott Shanle had two tackles for New Orleans.
After three quarters, Nate Swift has one catch for 11 yards and Correll Buckhalter has four yards on four carries for the Broncos. Jay Moore has one tackle for the 49ers.
Sam Koch had five punts for a 38 yard average. Three were inside the 20. Cody Glenn had one tackle for Washington.
Titus Adams had one tackle for New England.
Maurice Purify had two catches for 17 yards vs. the Saints. Scott Shanle had two tackles for New Orleans.
After three quarters, Nate Swift has one catch for 11 yards and Correll Buckhalter has four yards on four carries for the Broncos. Jay Moore has one tackle for the 49ers.
Sam Koch had five punts for a 38 yard average. Three were inside the 20. Cody Glenn had one tackle for Washington.
Titus Adams had one tackle for New England.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Football 202 Highlights
James Dobson said the players are bigger and faster than last year. A side note: The workouts this summer were the hardest they have been through since being at NU according to one player.
The 105 players this year have more talent than a year ago. Some players in fall camp last year were not in the top 105 players this year.
Nebraska has the talent to be a national championship team. They have to get more consistent, trust in the coaches, and improve their academic efforts so that problems in that area are not a distraction for football.
Recruiting is not an exact science. Relationships with high school coaches are essential for recruiting great talent. Relationships are starting to develop in Nebraska and Texas, for example.
Pelini's reaction after the New Mexico game after being told that Lance Thorell had just started his first game with 11 men on a team. "What!!?" Lance played for Loomis who played 8 man ball and is a walk-on.. Coach Sanders is very happy with his progress.
The story of how Colton Koehler from Harvard starting his college career with Division III Nebraska Weslayen and now could be a starter at Nebraska is a tribute to how the walk-on program at Nebraska works.
The coaches and staff just don't give lip service to the walk-on program, they truly believe it sets NU apart from other schools.
With the NCAA limit of 105 players in fall camp, the rule has changed that if a player gets hurt, the coaching staff can call in another player not on the original list. This happened when Ron Kellog Jr. just came into camp to replace injured Kody Spano.
There are 29 practices in fall camp. Last year there was only one week of practice before school started. This year there will be two weeks.
The first day of practice this year included drug testing.
Tommy Frazier said NU coach Kevin Steele drew him to NU. Frazier was actually just ready to commit to Colorado when an assistant coach called him from Colorado and said they would like to switch him to safety. That assistant coach is now the head coach for the Minnesota Vikings, I believe.
Frazier discussed the conversation he had with Warren Sapp in the 1995 Orange Bowl. Frazier told a reporter that he didn't like being called Thomas or Tom. He said Sapp must of read the story. When I came back into the game Warren was yelling, "Hey, Thomas, Hey Tom. Where have you been? Frazier said, It's not where I've been fat boy, it's where I am going."
Frazier said when he ran his first career play at NU, he ran the wrong way.
Pelini can fire up a crowd with his enthusiasm. So can Ron Brown who got a standing ovation with his energy.
Tommie Frazier said his college highlight was graduating. He was the first one in his large family to graduate from college.
His favorite play was getting hit from behind but still got a pass off against Colorado. He loved beating Colorado.
Frazier feels the option can still work today. "Look at Georgia Tech!"
Frazier said the first time he was in Lincoln and it was snowing he said "What the hell am I doing here?"
Pelini said the successful players are set apart because of what they do off the field with academics, working out, and family. They must compete daily, follow a process laid out by coaches and staff and be accountable.
Carl Pelini said that we are establishing the team we want to be. The family atmosphere is a powerful, powerful thing.
Coach John Papuchis said that Baker Steinkuhler will be a force before he leaves Nebraska.
All coaches talked about a "relentless effort" by the team and coaches being key to the team.
Shawn Watson says Zac Lee has as much talent as an QB he has ever been around.
Mike McNiel commented that Rex Burkhead has caught his eye this summer. Prince Amukamara said that Jason Ankrah, a defensive end, is a freshman to look out for.
We'll probably have some more in Football 202 later but that is all for tonight.
The 105 players this year have more talent than a year ago. Some players in fall camp last year were not in the top 105 players this year.
Nebraska has the talent to be a national championship team. They have to get more consistent, trust in the coaches, and improve their academic efforts so that problems in that area are not a distraction for football.
Recruiting is not an exact science. Relationships with high school coaches are essential for recruiting great talent. Relationships are starting to develop in Nebraska and Texas, for example.
Pelini's reaction after the New Mexico game after being told that Lance Thorell had just started his first game with 11 men on a team. "What!!?" Lance played for Loomis who played 8 man ball and is a walk-on.. Coach Sanders is very happy with his progress.
The story of how Colton Koehler from Harvard starting his college career with Division III Nebraska Weslayen and now could be a starter at Nebraska is a tribute to how the walk-on program at Nebraska works.
The coaches and staff just don't give lip service to the walk-on program, they truly believe it sets NU apart from other schools.
With the NCAA limit of 105 players in fall camp, the rule has changed that if a player gets hurt, the coaching staff can call in another player not on the original list. This happened when Ron Kellog Jr. just came into camp to replace injured Kody Spano.
There are 29 practices in fall camp. Last year there was only one week of practice before school started. This year there will be two weeks.
The first day of practice this year included drug testing.
Tommy Frazier said NU coach Kevin Steele drew him to NU. Frazier was actually just ready to commit to Colorado when an assistant coach called him from Colorado and said they would like to switch him to safety. That assistant coach is now the head coach for the Minnesota Vikings, I believe.
Frazier discussed the conversation he had with Warren Sapp in the 1995 Orange Bowl. Frazier told a reporter that he didn't like being called Thomas or Tom. He said Sapp must of read the story. When I came back into the game Warren was yelling, "Hey, Thomas, Hey Tom. Where have you been? Frazier said, It's not where I've been fat boy, it's where I am going."
Frazier said when he ran his first career play at NU, he ran the wrong way.
Pelini can fire up a crowd with his enthusiasm. So can Ron Brown who got a standing ovation with his energy.
Tommie Frazier said his college highlight was graduating. He was the first one in his large family to graduate from college.
His favorite play was getting hit from behind but still got a pass off against Colorado. He loved beating Colorado.
Frazier feels the option can still work today. "Look at Georgia Tech!"
Frazier said the first time he was in Lincoln and it was snowing he said "What the hell am I doing here?"
Pelini said the successful players are set apart because of what they do off the field with academics, working out, and family. They must compete daily, follow a process laid out by coaches and staff and be accountable.
Carl Pelini said that we are establishing the team we want to be. The family atmosphere is a powerful, powerful thing.
Coach John Papuchis said that Baker Steinkuhler will be a force before he leaves Nebraska.
All coaches talked about a "relentless effort" by the team and coaches being key to the team.
Shawn Watson says Zac Lee has as much talent as an QB he has ever been around.
Mike McNiel commented that Rex Burkhead has caught his eye this summer. Prince Amukamara said that Jason Ankrah, a defensive end, is a freshman to look out for.
We'll probably have some more in Football 202 later but that is all for tonight.
Friday, August 07, 2009
Tuesday, August 04, 2009
Football 202: 2009 Part 2
Bo Pelini's message was that this 2009 team has talent. We have to continue to change the culture to a family atmosphere and the players have to trust the coaches. We have come a long ways but we aren't quite there yet. We have to be more consistent.
James Dobson, the strength and conditioning coach, is as full of energy as anybody I have ever been around. The word is that he is working the players much much harder than he did a year ago.
Dobson said that in June the team worked on strength, speed, and, power. In July they are working on conditioning.
The team has gained 350 lbs of body mass during this time and yet are faster. They work on acceleration. They sprint 10-15 yards at a time. Dobson said long distance is not football.
Dobson said that a player comes to Nebraska because he trusts us. They have to trust we will make them better. The players have to have a high level of performance throughout the whole year. If you are comfortable, you won't get better.
Ted Gilmore talked about recruiting. He said there is no exact science to recruiting. Nebraska believes in staff recruiting where two, three, four coaches may visit a player.
Recruiting is getting out of whack in some parts of the country because they are recruiting players when they are only freshman or sophomores.
The recruiting philosophy is
1) Academics Nebraska leads the nation in academics. Student athletes must compete in the classroom.
2) Athletics
3) Community Recruits must be a good fit for our state, community, and university
Prospects are evaluated by speed, strength, size, ability, and character. Gilmore said, for example, they like receivers that are big bodied (6'3" and above) and can created separation (quickness and speed)
Gilmore said "We will not always compete with our opponents for the same prospects. However we must recruit individuals that will help us defeat those teams".
NU's goal is to identify every prospect within a 500 mile radius of the University.
Some of the players in the top 105 players for Nebraska last year will not make the top 105 players in 2009. This is even after we lost a bunch of seniors. This means the overall talent level is up at Nebraska. The redshirting and incoming freshmen plus the development of our other players has created an increase in talent. That is good news for NU fans. That is great news!!
James Dobson, the strength and conditioning coach, is as full of energy as anybody I have ever been around. The word is that he is working the players much much harder than he did a year ago.
Dobson said that in June the team worked on strength, speed, and, power. In July they are working on conditioning.
The team has gained 350 lbs of body mass during this time and yet are faster. They work on acceleration. They sprint 10-15 yards at a time. Dobson said long distance is not football.
Dobson said that a player comes to Nebraska because he trusts us. They have to trust we will make them better. The players have to have a high level of performance throughout the whole year. If you are comfortable, you won't get better.
Ted Gilmore talked about recruiting. He said there is no exact science to recruiting. Nebraska believes in staff recruiting where two, three, four coaches may visit a player.
Recruiting is getting out of whack in some parts of the country because they are recruiting players when they are only freshman or sophomores.
The recruiting philosophy is
1) Academics Nebraska leads the nation in academics. Student athletes must compete in the classroom.
2) Athletics
3) Community Recruits must be a good fit for our state, community, and university
Prospects are evaluated by speed, strength, size, ability, and character. Gilmore said, for example, they like receivers that are big bodied (6'3" and above) and can created separation (quickness and speed)
Gilmore said "We will not always compete with our opponents for the same prospects. However we must recruit individuals that will help us defeat those teams".
NU's goal is to identify every prospect within a 500 mile radius of the University.
Some of the players in the top 105 players for Nebraska last year will not make the top 105 players in 2009. This is even after we lost a bunch of seniors. This means the overall talent level is up at Nebraska. The redshirting and incoming freshmen plus the development of our other players has created an increase in talent. That is good news for NU fans. That is great news!!
Sunday, August 02, 2009
Football 202: Not X's and O's, but how you do it!
This year's Football 202 had 328 attendees from 18 states. Last year there was approximately 125 that attended the first session ever. Jeff Jamrog mentioned that the session is like the T-shirt that says "NU football is not Life or Death" and then on the back it says "It's more important than that."
The NU coaches are on the same page. There was a consistent message given by all. The message is that 1) Every player is competing daily, 2) Follow the process consistently, 3)Be accountable for your actions, and 4) Establish a culture of a family atmosphere.
Bo Pelini didn't talk about X's and O's. His emphasis was what sets players and coaches apart. He said it is what they do off the field. Ultimately it is not what you do but how you do it. "Every decision you make every day impacts who you are.
Pelini said, in his mind, his job is not to win football games but to prepare kids for the rest of their life.
He said in the recruiting process, the recruit has a me-attitude when he is picking a college. Once he signs it has to be all about team.
Pelini is about the process. Players need to worry about their day-to-day activities and it has to be their main priority. That includes going and participating in classes. If they are having problems in their classes, they won't be focused when they come to football practice.
There are not many gray areas in coaching, it is mostly black and white. You love the players unconditionally but sometimes it has to be tough love.
Players have to trust coaches. When this staff got to Lincoln, the trust wasn't there. The trust wasn't all there in 2008 but it is getting better.
Pelini feels he has a tremendous mentor in Coach Osborne. He said that he has a dream job and the reasons are: 1) Tom Osborne is athletic director, 2) He is now head coach, and 3) He likes working with young men.
He joked about having his picture taken while out in public. People walk up and take pictures with their cell phone which amazes him because he said "I'm ugly". He also remembers a guy about 75 years of age giving him a long long bear hug as his girls looked with astonishment. He said "It's ok girls".
Pelini stresses that as a coach you have to have balance with your life. He believes his staff follows this same philosophy.
Pelini said they have a more difficult time recruiting because it is about building relationships with high school football coaches. Nebraska isn't populated enough to draw a large number of recruits so he said building relationships becomes a challenge. They have started to build ties with coaches in the Dallas, Texas area, and it has paid off.
Pelini said the biggest challenge of the football team is "ourselves." Ultimately if the players buy in, we have enough talent to win a championship. Last year we lacked consistency.
Pelini talks to Pete Carroll on a regular basis. He says he doesn't have all the answers and as a coach you must continue to develop.
Pelini believes in treating his assistant coaches the best he can. He said he has the best staff in college football.
Pelini said he doesn't believe in depth charts but he assured our group that Suh will start.
When asked who is more talented - Suh or Dorsey, his former All-American from LSU - he said Suh may have more talent but Glenn Dorsey is extraordinary with his effort. He says Suh has great effort but Dorsey was at a different level every play.
Pelini says that Missouri was a game "I screwed up". After that game he said he had a complete self-evaluation. He said he made corrections.
The game he most enjoyed was Texas Tech because we responded well after the Missouri game. That game was the crossroads of the season.
In the next couple of days, we will have more on Football 202. Watch for more!
The NU coaches are on the same page. There was a consistent message given by all. The message is that 1) Every player is competing daily, 2) Follow the process consistently, 3)Be accountable for your actions, and 4) Establish a culture of a family atmosphere.
Bo Pelini didn't talk about X's and O's. His emphasis was what sets players and coaches apart. He said it is what they do off the field. Ultimately it is not what you do but how you do it. "Every decision you make every day impacts who you are.
Pelini said, in his mind, his job is not to win football games but to prepare kids for the rest of their life.
He said in the recruiting process, the recruit has a me-attitude when he is picking a college. Once he signs it has to be all about team.
Pelini is about the process. Players need to worry about their day-to-day activities and it has to be their main priority. That includes going and participating in classes. If they are having problems in their classes, they won't be focused when they come to football practice.
There are not many gray areas in coaching, it is mostly black and white. You love the players unconditionally but sometimes it has to be tough love.
Players have to trust coaches. When this staff got to Lincoln, the trust wasn't there. The trust wasn't all there in 2008 but it is getting better.
Pelini feels he has a tremendous mentor in Coach Osborne. He said that he has a dream job and the reasons are: 1) Tom Osborne is athletic director, 2) He is now head coach, and 3) He likes working with young men.
He joked about having his picture taken while out in public. People walk up and take pictures with their cell phone which amazes him because he said "I'm ugly". He also remembers a guy about 75 years of age giving him a long long bear hug as his girls looked with astonishment. He said "It's ok girls".
Pelini stresses that as a coach you have to have balance with your life. He believes his staff follows this same philosophy.
Pelini said they have a more difficult time recruiting because it is about building relationships with high school football coaches. Nebraska isn't populated enough to draw a large number of recruits so he said building relationships becomes a challenge. They have started to build ties with coaches in the Dallas, Texas area, and it has paid off.
Pelini said the biggest challenge of the football team is "ourselves." Ultimately if the players buy in, we have enough talent to win a championship. Last year we lacked consistency.
Pelini talks to Pete Carroll on a regular basis. He says he doesn't have all the answers and as a coach you must continue to develop.
Pelini believes in treating his assistant coaches the best he can. He said he has the best staff in college football.
Pelini said he doesn't believe in depth charts but he assured our group that Suh will start.
When asked who is more talented - Suh or Dorsey, his former All-American from LSU - he said Suh may have more talent but Glenn Dorsey is extraordinary with his effort. He says Suh has great effort but Dorsey was at a different level every play.
Pelini says that Missouri was a game "I screwed up". After that game he said he had a complete self-evaluation. He said he made corrections.
The game he most enjoyed was Texas Tech because we responded well after the Missouri game. That game was the crossroads of the season.
In the next couple of days, we will have more on Football 202. Watch for more!
Sunday, July 26, 2009
News of the day!
Alberto Contador won the Tour de France for the second time. Lance Armstrong did not win. He was well back in time but did finish third in his attempt at a comeback. Will he retire again?
Jamie McMurray is free to shop around for another team. Roush Fenway Racing said they may look to move McMurray to their partner Yates Racing. Presently Roush's drivers are Matt Kenseth, Carl Edward, Greg Biffle, David Ragan, and McMurray. Dewalt says they will not sponsor Matt Kenseth's #17 next year also. It will be weird to see Kenseth with a different looking car. I guess we have gotten used to Tony Stewart's car not being Home Depot so we can get used to this also.
McMurray has been rumored to be in contact with Earnhardt Ganassi Racing to take over the #1 car as Martin Truex Jr is moving after this year.
Look to Jeff Gordon, Tony Stewart, Jimmie Johnson, and Kyle Busch to finish in that order today at the Brickyard.
Coffee grinds caused an emergency landing today in New York. Personnel on board thought they smelled something burning or a fire. Sounds like home.
Larry The Cable Guy is beginning the filming of his Christmas Special this week! Maybe that's why my wife has started her shopping already.
Jamie McMurray is free to shop around for another team. Roush Fenway Racing said they may look to move McMurray to their partner Yates Racing. Presently Roush's drivers are Matt Kenseth, Carl Edward, Greg Biffle, David Ragan, and McMurray. Dewalt says they will not sponsor Matt Kenseth's #17 next year also. It will be weird to see Kenseth with a different looking car. I guess we have gotten used to Tony Stewart's car not being Home Depot so we can get used to this also.
McMurray has been rumored to be in contact with Earnhardt Ganassi Racing to take over the #1 car as Martin Truex Jr is moving after this year.
Look to Jeff Gordon, Tony Stewart, Jimmie Johnson, and Kyle Busch to finish in that order today at the Brickyard.
Coffee grinds caused an emergency landing today in New York. Personnel on board thought they smelled something burning or a fire. Sounds like home.
Larry The Cable Guy is beginning the filming of his Christmas Special this week! Maybe that's why my wife has started her shopping already.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
JK Wedding Entrance Dance
THIS IS AWESOME!!! YOU MAY HAVE TO HIT PAUSE AND LET IN LOAD SO YOU CAN WATCH IT ALL AT ONCE!
Monday, July 20, 2009
British Open exciting without Woods!
Steady Tom Watson made this year's British Open one of the best in years. I forgot Tiger didn't even make the cut. No Tiger Woods but lots of drama. Tom Watson was only two over for the day in regulation. Pretty good golf with all the pressure. Many younger extremely athletic golfers played much worse on Sunday.
Golf needs to have a golfer from the past be in the hunt of winning a tournament about once a month. Why not? Wrestling does it, why not golf.
Found myself not liking Stewart Cink for an hour or two yesterday. He seems to be a good guy though. But why did he have to beat Watson?
I think I'll Join the Michael Vick fan club. For Pete's sake he was mean to some dogs and he went to prison for a couple of years. The press is after him and when that happens, as we see in politics, they can ruin you.
Golf needs to have a golfer from the past be in the hunt of winning a tournament about once a month. Why not? Wrestling does it, why not golf.
Found myself not liking Stewart Cink for an hour or two yesterday. He seems to be a good guy though. But why did he have to beat Watson?
I think I'll Join the Michael Vick fan club. For Pete's sake he was mean to some dogs and he went to prison for a couple of years. The press is after him and when that happens, as we see in politics, they can ruin you.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Walter Cronkite announces death of JFK
This is one of my most memorable moments in my lifetime. At the time had had a huge impact on the nation. John F. Kennedy had instilled into the lives a vision and a hope for each of us to get better. The nation responded!! This day could be compared to 9/11 when you look at how it affected the nation and the world.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Joe Moglia
Former coach and chairman for TD Ameritrade Joe Moglia is the new life skills and leadership consultant for football. Read on..
Huskers.com
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Best shape ever!
In 2008 when strength and conditioning coach, James Dobson, took over the workouts they, were much more strenuous than what the players experienced with the previous staff. Well, it sounds like this year the workouts have been stepped up a few more notches. The workouts have been very vigorous and players say they are in the best shape of their life. This will result in more wins. You have to give the players and staff a big A+ for the off season work they have done. The first game is right around the corner. As a fan it is invigorating to know the effort that has been set forth to put the best product on the field. This writer is grateful but also glad he isn't one going through the workouts.
I am starting to get the fever and believe that NU can win the Big 12 North. The game at Kansas will be huge. So many things can happen before that game, but if NU can stay mostly healthy at key positions, they will win at Lawrence. Do fans know how much teams will take to prepare to stop Suh? He is the man.
I am starting to get the fever and believe that NU can win the Big 12 North. The game at Kansas will be huge. So many things can happen before that game, but if NU can stay mostly healthy at key positions, they will win at Lawrence. Do fans know how much teams will take to prepare to stop Suh? He is the man.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Curse of the Home Run Derby
The Wall Street Journal had the following statistics today on those that have won the Home Run Derby.
Pre-Break Post Break
2008-Lance Berkman 1 HR per 15 AB 1 HR per 31 AB
2007 Alex Rios 1 HR per 21 AB 1 HR per 42 AB
2006 David Wright 1 HR per 17 AB 1 HR per 41 AB
2005 Bobby Abreau 1 HR per 18 AB 1 HR per 44 AB
Two experienced Kansas football players made position changes in critical areas. Kansas lost three starting linebackers so Angus Quigley, the team's second leading rusher last season, has moved to linebacker.
Sophomore Jeremiah Hatch started 12 games at left tackle last year. He has moved to center.
QB Todd Reesing is the only QB projected to start this fall that has won in a bowl game.
Tonight on FSN, the September 1996 between Arizona St and Nebraska was shown. NU had a 26 game winning streak going and was upset 19-0. Pat Tillman recovered a fumble by Ahman Green to ice the victory. Arizona St. went 12-0 that year and then got beat in the Rose Bowl by Ohio State.
Pre-Break Post Break
2008-Lance Berkman 1 HR per 15 AB 1 HR per 31 AB
2007 Alex Rios 1 HR per 21 AB 1 HR per 42 AB
2006 David Wright 1 HR per 17 AB 1 HR per 41 AB
2005 Bobby Abreau 1 HR per 18 AB 1 HR per 44 AB
Two experienced Kansas football players made position changes in critical areas. Kansas lost three starting linebackers so Angus Quigley, the team's second leading rusher last season, has moved to linebacker.
Sophomore Jeremiah Hatch started 12 games at left tackle last year. He has moved to center.
QB Todd Reesing is the only QB projected to start this fall that has won in a bowl game.
Tonight on FSN, the September 1996 between Arizona St and Nebraska was shown. NU had a 26 game winning streak going and was upset 19-0. Pat Tillman recovered a fumble by Ahman Green to ice the victory. Arizona St. went 12-0 that year and then got beat in the Rose Bowl by Ohio State.
Virginia Tech Enter Sandman Entrance
Today ESPN radio said that the money people say Virginia Tech and Boise State are the two toughest places to play. Nebraska goes to Virginia Tech 9/19/09. Virginia Tech is pre-rated in the top five in most polls. It will be interesting to see how many NU fans dressed in red can get tickets to the game. Should be a blast!!
Sunday, July 12, 2009
John Mayer performing Human Nature Michael Jackson Memorial Tribute
This is pretty neat. Suggestion: hit play and then hit pause so you can let it load. Enjoy
Friday, July 10, 2009
2008 FOOTBALL 202-PART 3
This is the third segment of Football 202 attended by 132 Husker fans. There were fans from twelve states that attended Football 202. One of those fans was the dad of Husker great Terry Connealy, Marty Connealy. He had two of his grandsons with him who look like they could be Huskers soon. They go to school in Mullen.
Also in the football office on Friday was Cody Green, a great quarterback recruit in the 2009 class. He was with his sister and mother. He is a tall athletic looking kid who reminds this writer a little like Josh Freeman. It looked like he was having a good time. He did not attend Football 202.
The Football 202 group had the pleasure of listening to Bo Pelini for a generous amount of time during the day. He told about his story of getting into the coaching ranks.
After playing for Ohio State, he went to Iowa as a GA and worked with the offense. He left after one year because they didn't offer the right setup to go into Sport Administration, which was what he wanted to do. He still wanted to coach also so he did send out numerous resumes to various teams. He was helping coach a high school team when one day the following fall Dwight Clark of the 49ers called him and asked if he was interested in being a scout for them. Clark met with Pelini and asked him to analyze three players and send the results to San Fransisco so they could evaluate his work. They were impressed and Pelini was hired as the head of scouting.
Pelini said he quickly "became bored" working in this area. He spent evenings with Ray Rhodes and other defensive coaches looking at film. They were impressed with his ideas and he was hired in mid-season as an assistant to the assistant secondary coach. At the end of the season Ray Rhodes went to the Philadelphia Eagles and Mike Shanahan went to the Denver Broncos. They both offered him jobs. But Mike Shanahan did give him some advice. He suggested that Coach Pelini stay with the 49ers who had a great system, George Seifert as head coach, and a defensive coordinator named Pete Carroll. Coach Pelini said "the best career decision he ever made was not taking the Bronco or Philly job as an assistant coach." He said "you are a product of what you are exposed to." The five years with the 49ers formed him into a great defensive coach. The rest is history.
Coach Pelini believes that coaching is all about relationships and teaching. In regards to teaching he learned in San Fransisco the following concepts:
1. Teach a player what to do
2. Teach a player how to do it
3. Most importantly, you need to teach WHY you are doing that way.
Whatever job that you have, you have to know the WHY. That way when there are changes in formations or adversity, you know how to react in a positive manner.
Coach Pelini believes that the best player is even in his emotions. "Players have to in control. Emotion happens when you have built a team, when you are playing for "N", not themselves."
Coach Pelini said "the players aren't quite ready yet, but they WILL be ready for the first game." This writer believes him.
In the afternoon, we had the pleasure to listen to Eric Crouch. Crouch was introduced as not only a great player and Heisman winner, but also a great person by Jeff Jamrog.
Crouch discussed his pro career. He said "he wanted to play quarterback" but the Rams drafted him as a receiver. Crouch was burned out from football when he left the Rams. He was injured most of his pro career and had nine surgeries before it was over. He said he doesn't know if his pro career is over now, but he does enjoy his recreational equipment sales business in Omaha.
Crouch raved about his high school football coach Fred Petito of Millard North.
Crouch said you always needed to "know what you were doing during the game" at NU. He said he would stay after practice and throw balls for an hour or two after practice. He worked hard.
His greatest college game, he said, was beating Notre Dame in overtime at Notre Dame with the stadium mostly red. He also mentioned the TD pass he caught from Mike Stuntz and the long Missouri run for a TD.
Crouch was very humorous and talked about the time when he was in New Orleans for the Walter Camp award. He said officials called him to go eat. He met Rex Grossman in the elevator and asked him if he was going out to eat because he assumed all the candidates were invited. Grossman was in shorts and had a pizza so he figured out real quick that he was going to eat with them by himself. They told him that night at supper that he was going to win the award.
Crouch also talked about running to a defensive team's strength sometimes when the defense would shift. He said "I thought, what the heck and they would go out and make ten to fifteen yards."
Part 4 will be the final segment. It will include more on Coach Pelini, the offensive coaches installing plays, and meeting with four of the players! Stay tuned.
Crouch had a great message and was interesting to listen to.
An interesting web site is www.tv4u.com. Check out Classic Sports/Classic Football and look for the 1976 Bluebonnet Bowl with Nebraska vs. Texas Tech. Ron Franklin is a sideline announcer and the game is shown in its entirety.
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
Perlman Surprises!
I have never considered Harvey Perlman a representative of sports let alone being a spokesman for the BCS. Perlman has seemed to be a square shooter and he seems to be more comfortable with science and music announcements than sports. Just found it interesting.
What in the world is Congress doing talking about the BCS anyway. There are much more worldly issues to be dealing with than if the BCS is breaking anti-trust laws. Let the courts decide it rather than Orrin Hatch trying to spell out that Utah is better than Nebraska. It appears now that the BCS setup as we know it will be gone. That may be good but keep it out of Congress.
Personally I am ok with the BCS but don't have power conferences. Just take the best teams and let the system set it up. If two teams end up undefeated at year end, let's play one more game to decide the overall champion. Most years there wouldn't be an extra game but it would add excitement to the bowl games. Money needs to be split with the conferences that have the better teams. Last year the Mountain West Conference got $9.8 million which was half of the amount of money the three bigger conferences got. When they won their BCS bowl their conference should receive more money. It needs to be a little more fair. Their conference is not equal to the Big 12 but the payback should be more fairly distributed. How much? I am not sure.
I would like to see somebody that knows all the facts comment on this.
Look for Tony Stewart, Jimmie Johnson, and Kyle Busch battle for the Nascar race this week.
What in the world is Congress doing talking about the BCS anyway. There are much more worldly issues to be dealing with than if the BCS is breaking anti-trust laws. Let the courts decide it rather than Orrin Hatch trying to spell out that Utah is better than Nebraska. It appears now that the BCS setup as we know it will be gone. That may be good but keep it out of Congress.
Personally I am ok with the BCS but don't have power conferences. Just take the best teams and let the system set it up. If two teams end up undefeated at year end, let's play one more game to decide the overall champion. Most years there wouldn't be an extra game but it would add excitement to the bowl games. Money needs to be split with the conferences that have the better teams. Last year the Mountain West Conference got $9.8 million which was half of the amount of money the three bigger conferences got. When they won their BCS bowl their conference should receive more money. It needs to be a little more fair. Their conference is not equal to the Big 12 but the payback should be more fairly distributed. How much? I am not sure.
I would like to see somebody that knows all the facts comment on this.
Look for Tony Stewart, Jimmie Johnson, and Kyle Busch battle for the Nascar race this week.
Tuesday, July 07, 2009
Saturday, July 04, 2009
Harlan County Lake elevation
On June 29th the elevation of the Harlan County Lake was 1947.03. This is compared to 1947.88 on 6/29/08. On June 26th, 2007, the elevation was 1939.85. The town of Alma had a record crowd for its parade today.
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
2008 Football 202 Part 2
I attended the UNL Football 202 program last year. It was a GREAT experience!! Here is the second part of what I wrote last year.
This is Part 2 to this writer's day at Football 202. 132 Husker football fans attended "class" to learn more of the "inside" workings of the football team. Please refer to my July 26th blog for this writer's first set of notes.
It was mentioned in my Part 1 blog that next year's attendance may double when it gets around what a neat time we had with Football 202. The great thing of having 132 was that we all fit in the players meeting room in the football office.
After James Dobson spoke to us we took a break. At that time my daughter Kim introduced me to Chris Kiffin. He is a son to Monte Kiffin of the Tampa Bay Bucs and a brother to Lane Kiffin, the Oakland Raider head coach. Chris is 26 and is an intern for the football team. He will work with the tight ends this season. He played football for Colorado State as a defensive lineman. Coach Watson said that when he was with Colorado they had to use a smash block on Chris when they played Colorado State. A smash block consists of two lineman blocking one defender using a certain technique. Needless to say, Chris Kiffin was an excellent college football player and is a very good kid.
Also working as an intern is Austen Everson who was a standout QB for Coach Frank Solich at Ohio University in 2005 and 2006. It is my understanding he will be working in the video area.
After break we had the pleasure to hear Trev Alberts speak. His story is interesting and he has a passion for Husker football that may only be matched by Jason Peter.
Trev said that a Husker player has the "burden and responsibility to represent the state well" and to win football games. To be a Cornhusker means you do everything possible to put a winner on the field and anything less than that is not acceptable. He mentioned that, as a player, you have to understand what Nebraska football means to the fans.
Trev Alberts was from a small school in Iowa. He said his dad really didn't want him to play football because he needed to help with farm work. He said when they grew up they didn't have a TV. He did go out for football and had a pretty successful career.
Back when Trev was getting recruited, they didn't have internet recruiting services but Tom Lemming had a publication. Trev's dad called Tom Lemming and asked why his son wasn't on his all Midwest team. Lemming told him to send $25 and he would send Trev future copies. The next publication had Trev Albert as second team on the Midwest team. This helped him get recognition with college football programs.
One day Earl Bruce, who was then coaching Northern Iowa called him and said they would like to offer him a scholarship. He asked what that meant. Coach Bruce said that if you come here we will pay for your schooling if you play football for us. Trev said "alright, sounds good to me."
One day the legendary Nebraska linebacker football coach, John Melton, showed up at his door. That started his relationship with Nebraska. He had two or three offers from other schools and Iowa had asked him to walk-on but then Nebraska got interested. Dave Gillespie asked Alberts to send him some film. Trev laughed when he told us what his football tape consisted of. A father had taped a couple of games on an old recorder. He sent that tape to Nebraska.
Trev Alberts admired Tom Osborne. When Coach Osborne visited him, he wrote down on a piece of paper eight names. Trev's was at the bottom. Coach Osborne explained that if Trev came to Nebraska that he would be listed as the eighth linebacker. It would be up to him to move up. He admired Coach Osborne because he didn't make promises that he would start if he went to Nebraska. Coach Osborne also wanted competitors on his football team and they had to have the drive to improve themselves to start.
Trev Alberts went to Nebraska despite his parents wanting him to stay closer to home and attend Iowa. Iowa offered him a scholarship after Nebraska did. The other reason he went to NU was:
1. He loved the visit to Nebraska
2. His high school football coach told him to go to Iowa because he could never play at NU. He said he still loves his high school coach dearly.
Trev Alerts said playing at Nebraska created a "larger mission of college athletics". He said that the student-athlete was never mistreated. We were always treated right."
He said that playing at Nebraska gave him many life lessons. Perseverance was a key. He felt like quitting many times but his dad told him he was not to quit and that being a quitter makes it easy to quit other things in life. He learned a different level of toughness and work ethic and that the work ethic was set by those that had an investment in the state.
"We believed in what we believed and we didn't waiver. We had principles." Another life lesson learned was honesty.
Trev Albert ended up as a rush end for the Cornhuskers. He attributes a lot of his success to his position coach, Tony Samuel. He won the Butkus award when he was a senior.
Trev Alberts was very entertaining. You can see why he has been successful on television. He said he is still friends with Mark May and had just spoke to him a couple of weeks ago.
Trev left us with "Football can't be about total thinking. You have to be free to play."
Next up is Bo Pelini.
This is Part 2 to this writer's day at Football 202. 132 Husker football fans attended "class" to learn more of the "inside" workings of the football team. Please refer to my July 26th blog for this writer's first set of notes.
It was mentioned in my Part 1 blog that next year's attendance may double when it gets around what a neat time we had with Football 202. The great thing of having 132 was that we all fit in the players meeting room in the football office.
After James Dobson spoke to us we took a break. At that time my daughter Kim introduced me to Chris Kiffin. He is a son to Monte Kiffin of the Tampa Bay Bucs and a brother to Lane Kiffin, the Oakland Raider head coach. Chris is 26 and is an intern for the football team. He will work with the tight ends this season. He played football for Colorado State as a defensive lineman. Coach Watson said that when he was with Colorado they had to use a smash block on Chris when they played Colorado State. A smash block consists of two lineman blocking one defender using a certain technique. Needless to say, Chris Kiffin was an excellent college football player and is a very good kid.
Also working as an intern is Austen Everson who was a standout QB for Coach Frank Solich at Ohio University in 2005 and 2006. It is my understanding he will be working in the video area.
After break we had the pleasure to hear Trev Alberts speak. His story is interesting and he has a passion for Husker football that may only be matched by Jason Peter.
Trev said that a Husker player has the "burden and responsibility to represent the state well" and to win football games. To be a Cornhusker means you do everything possible to put a winner on the field and anything less than that is not acceptable. He mentioned that, as a player, you have to understand what Nebraska football means to the fans.
Trev Alberts was from a small school in Iowa. He said his dad really didn't want him to play football because he needed to help with farm work. He said when they grew up they didn't have a TV. He did go out for football and had a pretty successful career.
Back when Trev was getting recruited, they didn't have internet recruiting services but Tom Lemming had a publication. Trev's dad called Tom Lemming and asked why his son wasn't on his all Midwest team. Lemming told him to send $25 and he would send Trev future copies. The next publication had Trev Albert as second team on the Midwest team. This helped him get recognition with college football programs.
One day Earl Bruce, who was then coaching Northern Iowa called him and said they would like to offer him a scholarship. He asked what that meant. Coach Bruce said that if you come here we will pay for your schooling if you play football for us. Trev said "alright, sounds good to me."
One day the legendary Nebraska linebacker football coach, John Melton, showed up at his door. That started his relationship with Nebraska. He had two or three offers from other schools and Iowa had asked him to walk-on but then Nebraska got interested. Dave Gillespie asked Alberts to send him some film. Trev laughed when he told us what his football tape consisted of. A father had taped a couple of games on an old recorder. He sent that tape to Nebraska.
Trev Alberts admired Tom Osborne. When Coach Osborne visited him, he wrote down on a piece of paper eight names. Trev's was at the bottom. Coach Osborne explained that if Trev came to Nebraska that he would be listed as the eighth linebacker. It would be up to him to move up. He admired Coach Osborne because he didn't make promises that he would start if he went to Nebraska. Coach Osborne also wanted competitors on his football team and they had to have the drive to improve themselves to start.
Trev Alberts went to Nebraska despite his parents wanting him to stay closer to home and attend Iowa. Iowa offered him a scholarship after Nebraska did. The other reason he went to NU was:
1. He loved the visit to Nebraska
2. His high school football coach told him to go to Iowa because he could never play at NU. He said he still loves his high school coach dearly.
Trev Alerts said playing at Nebraska created a "larger mission of college athletics". He said that the student-athlete was never mistreated. We were always treated right."
He said that playing at Nebraska gave him many life lessons. Perseverance was a key. He felt like quitting many times but his dad told him he was not to quit and that being a quitter makes it easy to quit other things in life. He learned a different level of toughness and work ethic and that the work ethic was set by those that had an investment in the state.
"We believed in what we believed and we didn't waiver. We had principles." Another life lesson learned was honesty.
Trev Albert ended up as a rush end for the Cornhuskers. He attributes a lot of his success to his position coach, Tony Samuel. He won the Butkus award when he was a senior.
Trev Alberts was very entertaining. You can see why he has been successful on television. He said he is still friends with Mark May and had just spoke to him a couple of weeks ago.
Trev left us with "Football can't be about total thinking. You have to be free to play."
Next up is Bo Pelini.
Mayo Clinic atrium piano, charming older couple...
I wished I would have learned how to play the piano better
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Johnson will win at New Hampshire!
Jimmie Johnson will win this weekends race! He has a fast car.
Carl Edwards will race well. He has a good history on medium tracks.
Tony Stewart has the pole due to a rainout. That is good news because the pole has been important when rainouts occur this year. Stewart hasn't prcticed well but he will have the lead early and won't have to go through the field. Expected finish:
1. Jimmie Johnson
2. Carl Edwards
3. Tony Stewart
4. Jeff Gordon
5. Denny Hamlin
Stat of the week: Only 26 current major league players and managers, out of 1,042, have college degrees. This is according to the Wall Street Journal. It could be with this lack of education and the money they are getting paid that maybe steriods make sense to them. Let's see, take some pills or go back to college and do 20 page reports for a few years to get my degree.....what should a baseball player do? Not a smart decision but what would you do?
Carl Edwards will race well. He has a good history on medium tracks.
Tony Stewart has the pole due to a rainout. That is good news because the pole has been important when rainouts occur this year. Stewart hasn't prcticed well but he will have the lead early and won't have to go through the field. Expected finish:
1. Jimmie Johnson
2. Carl Edwards
3. Tony Stewart
4. Jeff Gordon
5. Denny Hamlin
Stat of the week: Only 26 current major league players and managers, out of 1,042, have college degrees. This is according to the Wall Street Journal. It could be with this lack of education and the money they are getting paid that maybe steriods make sense to them. Let's see, take some pills or go back to college and do 20 page reports for a few years to get my degree.....what should a baseball player do? Not a smart decision but what would you do?
Friday, June 26, 2009
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Fragrances
Jessica Simpson has a new fragrance inspired by Tony Romo. I created a new fragrance inspired by eating pistachios and plums.
Ed McMahan passed away today. He is Johnny Carson's sidekick. Wouldn't it be great if some channel played reruns of the Johnny Carson show. We will miss the "Here's Johnny" announcer.
Texas looks like they can take the series to the third game. LSU and Texas both have some great players. What's with Russell Moldenhauer. Doesn't have a home run all year and then hits four for Texas in Omaha. Maybe he can sign with the Omaha Royals. Well at least until they move to the new stadium.
Ok so Brett Favre is going to Minnesota to play for the Vikings. I am in the minority but good for him. I wonder what number he will wear? He will look very odd in a Viking uniform.
For Pete's sake, Manny Ramirez had 50 games to get his hair cut and he didn't. He played for Albuquerque and didn't do so good. However the Albuquerque team broke an all time attendance record of with over 15,000 at the game.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Revved up again!
After spending a wonderful week in Sweden with my family, it is time to blog again. In Sweden, we met family on my mom's dad side. It was a very interesting, educational, and rewarding trip. The family in Sweden went above and beyond in showing us a great time. We are very fortunate to have had this experience.
Everybody is skinny in Sweden. They eat a lot but they exercise a lot and they eat the right things.
I did have one night in Sweden where the skoaling got carried away. Just one night.
This is Father's Day and a special time for myself. My dad was the greatest dad ever and I miss him a bunch. Not a day goes by that I need his help or have a question for him. He is watching over us. Also my daughters were home to celebrate Father's Day with me. We had a very fun and memorable time. I am blessed with three great daughters.
Now on to less important things........
Mother Nature was not kind to the US Open Golf Championship. The rest of the final round is tomorrow and its too bad we have to work. Has to be bad for the ratings. Tiger will be in the mix but he has too many strokes to make up. Look for Lucas Glover to be the US Champ.
Things are bad in Washington for a number of reasons but the Washington Nationals aren't helping things with the worst record in baseball. I see they won three games in a row this week though.
The Nascar race today was a mess. I don't like road courses or restrictor plate races when it comes to the fantasy league. Kasey Kahne won today with Tony Stewart second.
Everybody is skinny in Sweden. They eat a lot but they exercise a lot and they eat the right things.
I did have one night in Sweden where the skoaling got carried away. Just one night.
This is Father's Day and a special time for myself. My dad was the greatest dad ever and I miss him a bunch. Not a day goes by that I need his help or have a question for him. He is watching over us. Also my daughters were home to celebrate Father's Day with me. We had a very fun and memorable time. I am blessed with three great daughters.
Now on to less important things........
Mother Nature was not kind to the US Open Golf Championship. The rest of the final round is tomorrow and its too bad we have to work. Has to be bad for the ratings. Tiger will be in the mix but he has too many strokes to make up. Look for Lucas Glover to be the US Champ.
Things are bad in Washington for a number of reasons but the Washington Nationals aren't helping things with the worst record in baseball. I see they won three games in a row this week though.
The Nascar race today was a mess. I don't like road courses or restrictor plate races when it comes to the fantasy league. Kasey Kahne won today with Tony Stewart second.
Friday, June 05, 2009
Football 202 and vacation!
I'll be on vacation for a week so may not be posting. We'll see what the internet access. It's camp time again. There are 1400 kids and athletes attending camps in the next couple of weeks. Also at the end of July, there the second year of Football 202.
The following is Part 1 of my segment on Football 202 in 2008. Enjoy. Please make a comment below as to what you want more of on this site.
PICTURES COURTESY OF THE OMAHA WORLD-HERALD
This writer found out how little he knew about the new age of football last Friday when he attended Football 202, a new program headed by Bo Pelini, the Nebraska football coach. Jeff Jamrog, the head of football operations, organized the day that allowed Husker fans to see up close a small sampling of what goes on inside of "Nebraska football." 132 attended the event. My guess is that next year there will be double that amount.
My daughters, Sarah, Jessica and Kim, paid and registered me for Football 202 as a birthday/Father's Day present and it was one of the best presents a dad could get. It was also fun to see Kim during the day as she works in the football office.
In addition, this writer sat in front of Tom Shatel from the Omaha World-Herald. See his article about Football 202 :Tom Shatel
Jeff Jamrog started the day reviewing information regarding Nebraska football. Their budget is close to $34 million. The football programs helps pay for most of the budgets for the rest of Nebraska athletics.
Some of the items budgeted are interesting and mind boggling. Here are a few of the budgeted items:
Guarantees to non-conference teams to play at Nebraska......$2,700,000...
Recruiting expense ......$560,000...
Postage.....$50,000....
Supplements......$112,000....
Autographed footballs....$12,000....
Team travel.....$437,185...
Contest or game expense....$1,350,000.. Out of this officials are $170,000..
Scholarships......$2,000,000....
Nebraska is #1 in the conference in paying out for guarantees for teams to play at Nebraska. The average guarantee is $710,000. Jamrog said this is not a position NU wants to be in.
Recruiting is a top priority for Nebraska. Their priorities in the area of recruiting are:
1. Nebraska (500 mile radius)
2. California
3. Texas (In the 2009 class, six of the nine recruits are from Texas)
4. Florida
5. National Junior Colleges
6. National Position Recruiting
The Huskers grade each player they are looking at. One of the items that is very important is that social skills must be good. If a player doesn't act like a team player or doesn't seem to blend in with the present players on a visit, they are eliminated right away.
Jamrog discussed official visits vs unofficial visits. He noted that on an official visit that "we have 48 hours to impress the recruit".
Jamrog is down to earth and a very funny guy. He was enjoyable.
James Dobson was the next part of the program. He is the new strength coach for Husker football. He says when a recruit is looking to a college team one of the first things they should check out is the strength coach, his assistants, and the weight room facilities. He said a football player will spend more time working out and lifting than he will with everybody else during his college stay.
The new emphasis to the NU football team by the new strength coach is developing burst and speed. They do their workouts based on 40 yard dashes with very short rests and then repeating the short bursts again. They also workout almost year around which they hope will give NU an advantage. Dobson doesn't believe in taking time off because you lose what we have gained in a short period of time.
James Dobson is very likable and as energetic as any person you will ever see. The tour guide mentioned that the players are drenched in sweat now when they leave a workout. Asked if they were not this way the last few years, the tour guide diplomatically said "Next question!"
The following is Part 1 of my segment on Football 202 in 2008. Enjoy. Please make a comment below as to what you want more of on this site.
PICTURES COURTESY OF THE OMAHA WORLD-HERALD
This writer found out how little he knew about the new age of football last Friday when he attended Football 202, a new program headed by Bo Pelini, the Nebraska football coach. Jeff Jamrog, the head of football operations, organized the day that allowed Husker fans to see up close a small sampling of what goes on inside of "Nebraska football." 132 attended the event. My guess is that next year there will be double that amount.
My daughters, Sarah, Jessica and Kim, paid and registered me for Football 202 as a birthday/Father's Day present and it was one of the best presents a dad could get. It was also fun to see Kim during the day as she works in the football office.
In addition, this writer sat in front of Tom Shatel from the Omaha World-Herald. See his article about Football 202 :
Jeff Jamrog started the day reviewing information regarding Nebraska football. Their budget is close to $34 million. The football programs helps pay for most of the budgets for the rest of Nebraska athletics.
Some of the items budgeted are interesting and mind boggling. Here are a few of the budgeted items:
Guarantees to non-conference teams to play at Nebraska......$2,700,000...
Recruiting expense ......$560,000...
Postage.....$50,000....
Supplements......$112,000....
Autographed footballs....$12,000....
Team travel.....$437,185...
Contest or game expense....$1,350,000.. Out of this officials are $170,000..
Scholarships......$2,000,000....
Nebraska is #1 in the conference in paying out for guarantees for teams to play at Nebraska. The average guarantee is $710,000. Jamrog said this is not a position NU wants to be in.
Recruiting is a top priority for Nebraska. Their priorities in the area of recruiting are:
1. Nebraska (500 mile radius)
2. California
3. Texas (In the 2009 class, six of the nine recruits are from Texas)
4. Florida
5. National Junior Colleges
6. National Position Recruiting
The Huskers grade each player they are looking at. One of the items that is very important is that social skills must be good. If a player doesn't act like a team player or doesn't seem to blend in with the present players on a visit, they are eliminated right away.
Jamrog discussed official visits vs unofficial visits. He noted that on an official visit that "we have 48 hours to impress the recruit".
Jamrog is down to earth and a very funny guy. He was enjoyable.
James Dobson was the next part of the program. He is the new strength coach for Husker football. He says when a recruit is looking to a college team one of the first things they should check out is the strength coach, his assistants, and the weight room facilities. He said a football player will spend more time working out and lifting than he will with everybody else during his college stay.
The new emphasis to the NU football team by the new strength coach is developing burst and speed. They do their workouts based on 40 yard dashes with very short rests and then repeating the short bursts again. They also workout almost year around which they hope will give NU an advantage. Dobson doesn't believe in taking time off because you lose what we have gained in a short period of time.
James Dobson is very likable and as energetic as any person you will ever see. The tour guide mentioned that the players are drenched in sweat now when they leave a workout. Asked if they were not this way the last few years, the tour guide diplomatically said "Next question!"
Thursday, June 04, 2009
Oklahoma Preview!
Nebraska plays Oklahoma on November 7th. Oklahoma is a team of few weaknesses! See one site's preview for Oklahoma.
craveonline.com
Monday, June 01, 2009
Harry Caray on CrackerJacks
The good ole days!! Harry is funny and he might have had one Bud Light before this audio.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Gretna takes second in Class B golf
Gretna, the returning Class B golf champs, had another great performance finishing second in this year's tournament. Jared Gustafson shot a 70 and won the honor of Class B's best player. Gretna is coached by Scott Boehler. Adams Central won Class B by 11 strokes.
John Hurley continues to shine. The O'Neill, Nebraska native helped Texas A & M to the NCAA match play championship by not losing a match.
The Nebraska pregame prayer is one of the most googled entries into this site. I thought I would republish the prayer so everybody can read.
Football Pre-game Prayer
Dear Lord,
In the battles we go through life
We ask for a chance that's fair
A chance to equal all our strife
A chance to do or dare
And if we win,
Let it be by the code
With faith and honor held high
And if we lose,
Let us stand by the road
And cheer as the winners go by.
Day by day
We get better and better
A team that can't be beat
Won't be beat.
John Hurley continues to shine. The O'Neill, Nebraska native helped Texas A & M to the NCAA match play championship by not losing a match.
The Nebraska pregame prayer is one of the most googled entries into this site. I thought I would republish the prayer so everybody can read.
Football Pre-game Prayer
Dear Lord,
In the battles we go through life
We ask for a chance that's fair
A chance to equal all our strife
A chance to do or dare
And if we win,
Let it be by the code
With faith and honor held high
And if we lose,
Let us stand by the road
And cheer as the winners go by.
Day by day
We get better and better
A team that can't be beat
Won't be beat.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Monday, May 25, 2009
Holdrege's Killough wins all class gold medal
It hasn't happened for a long time! Not since 1983 has a Holdrege athlete won an all class gold medal at the state track meet. Kristin Killough was the best female athlete in the state in the pole vault for 2009. She cleared 11' 6 1/4". Good enough to beat Maggie Maher from Kearney by a 1/4 of an inch; Maher won the all class gold medal last year. Killough becomes only the second girl to win an all class medal. Also, Holdrege's Kellie Fegter was second at this year's state meet in Class B in the pole vault which allowed Holdrege to have a 1-2 punch.
In 1983, Beth Stuart won the gold in the shot put with a throw of 46' 6 1/2". That same year she won the discus with a heave of 149'3". Beth is the only Holdrege athlete to win the gold in two events.
So there have only been two girls to receive the all class gold medal. How many boys have received it from Holdrege. If you answered six, you were correct!
Boys State Track All Class Gold Medals received by Holdrege athletes:
1967 Marv Ayers 180 low hurdles 19.7
1953 Dale Knotek high jump 6'2 1/2"
1978 Todd Brown triple jump 50' 2 1/4" (All time state meet and all time record)
1969 Kirk Yentes shot put 57' 5 1/2"
1948 Ted Lofgren shot put 48' 11 1/4"
1967 Steve Yentes discus 166' 1/2"
1966 Steve Yentes discus 168 3 1/2"
Steve Yentes is the only Holdrege athlete to win two different years.
Loomis' Brian Schukar won the long jump all class gold in 1998 with a leap of 23' 3 1/4". Bertrand's Jim Schaefer had the longest jump in the state in 1963 with a 22'9" effort.
In 1983, Beth Stuart won the gold in the shot put with a throw of 46' 6 1/2". That same year she won the discus with a heave of 149'3". Beth is the only Holdrege athlete to win the gold in two events.
So there have only been two girls to receive the all class gold medal. How many boys have received it from Holdrege. If you answered six, you were correct!
Boys State Track All Class Gold Medals received by Holdrege athletes:
1967 Marv Ayers 180 low hurdles 19.7
1953 Dale Knotek high jump 6'2 1/2"
1978 Todd Brown triple jump 50' 2 1/4" (All time state meet and all time record)
1969 Kirk Yentes shot put 57' 5 1/2"
1948 Ted Lofgren shot put 48' 11 1/4"
1967 Steve Yentes discus 166' 1/2"
1966 Steve Yentes discus 168 3 1/2"
Steve Yentes is the only Holdrege athlete to win two different years.
Loomis' Brian Schukar won the long jump all class gold in 1998 with a leap of 23' 3 1/4". Bertrand's Jim Schaefer had the longest jump in the state in 1963 with a 22'9" effort.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
The Best Collection of Amazing Basketball Shots Ever!
Orlando lead 2-1. The Cavs are in a little bit of trouble,. Watch this video on amazing golf shots!
Not so briefly!
Joh Hurley hits the ball off the tee as far as most of us would like to be laying two. He is one of the longest hitters in college golf and is now on a mission to become known on a nationally. From O'Neill, Nebraska, not known as the mecca of golf, he now plays for Texas A & M. He will play in a few tournaments in Nebraska this summer but he will be playing to qualify in such events as the US Amateur.
Once upon a time, three years ago, John Hurley was playing in the state Class B tournament. That tournament didn't work out so well as Corey Shield from Holdrege pulled off the big upset. Here are some excerpts from my blog back in May of 2006.
"Cool and calm Corey Shield of Holdrege won the Class B Championship with a 66 today at The Highlands in Lincoln. His final 36 hole total was 139 and he beat John Hurley from O'Neill by one stroke. Hurley ended with a 140. Shield led most of the day by one or two strokes but Hurley's putts put in tie after the 16th hole today. Shield then birdied the 17th hole and Hurley sank a 10 foot putt for a par giving Shield the one stroke lead. On the 18th, Hurley had a big drive but ended in the rough. Both golfers were on the green in two with twenty foot putts. Neither sank their next shots but both parred and Shield ended the winner. Hurley was going after his third straight title. He led by two strokes after the first day and shot a 69 on Wednesday. He will attend Texas A & M on a golf scholarship this fall. Only three strokes out was Brandon Crick from McCook. He ended with a 142. EJ Hamilton and Nathan Jaeger tied for 4th with 149s."
Hurley is now in the Top 200 in college golf. He will be playing in the NCAA Championship tournament next week. He will try to qualify for the Nationwide tournament at Champions Run in Omaha. He will continue to try to get his national ranking up.
Once upon a time, three years ago, John Hurley was playing in the state Class B tournament. That tournament didn't work out so well as Corey Shield from Holdrege pulled off the big upset. Here are some excerpts from my blog back in May of 2006.
"Cool and calm Corey Shield of Holdrege won the Class B Championship with a 66 today at The Highlands in Lincoln. His final 36 hole total was 139 and he beat John Hurley from O'Neill by one stroke. Hurley ended with a 140. Shield led most of the day by one or two strokes but Hurley's putts put in tie after the 16th hole today. Shield then birdied the 17th hole and Hurley sank a 10 foot putt for a par giving Shield the one stroke lead. On the 18th, Hurley had a big drive but ended in the rough. Both golfers were on the green in two with twenty foot putts. Neither sank their next shots but both parred and Shield ended the winner. Hurley was going after his third straight title. He led by two strokes after the first day and shot a 69 on Wednesday. He will attend Texas A & M on a golf scholarship this fall. Only three strokes out was Brandon Crick from McCook. He ended with a 142. EJ Hamilton and Nathan Jaeger tied for 4th with 149s."
Hurley is now in the Top 200 in college golf. He will be playing in the NCAA Championship tournament next week. He will try to qualify for the Nationwide tournament at Champions Run in Omaha. He will continue to try to get his national ranking up.
brian regan little league
Brian Regan is one of the funniest comedians alive. His experiences with Little League baseball are similar to this writer!
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Sports at its best!
This writer predicts an upset in American Idol tonight. Kris Allen will win the competition over the more talented Adam Lambert in a very close race! Kris has a huge fan club with the younger girls who can thinks he's "cute".
Gretna goes to State meet by one strokes. Coach Scott Boehler said the winds were 35 MPH.
Gretna goes to State meet by one strokes. Coach Scott Boehler said the winds were 35 MPH.
District Results
Table Creek Golf Course
May 18, 2009
Individual Medalist
1. Dylan Heng – Nebraska City (77)
2. Max Rudder – Norris (77)
3. Mitch Johnson – Omaha Skutt (78)
4. Sam Sullivan – Nebraska City (79)
5. Matt Munro – Omaha Skutt (79)
6. Jared Gustafson – Gretna (80)
7. Grant Cole – Auburn (81)
8. Justin Meyer – Platteview (82)
9. Chase Brion – Gretna (82)
10. Tim Jensen – Syracuse (82)
Team Standings
1. Omaha Skutt – 326
2. Nebraska City – 335
3. Gretna – 345
4. Syracuse – 346
5. Platteview – 358
6. Norris – 379
7. Wahoo – 386
8. Plattsmouth – 394
9. Waverly – 395
10. Falls City – 404
11. Auburn – 436
12. Ashland – 458
Gretna Golfers
Jared Gustafson 38 – 42 = 80 (6th Place)
Chase Brion 43 – 39 = 82 (9th Place)
David DeBolt 44 – 46 = 90
Jason Wendelin 48 – 45 = 93
Patrick Carney 48 – 47 = 95
Holdrege girls shine at State Soccer but lose in final 3-0 to Omaha Scutt.
Harlan County Lake elevation on May 19, 2009 was 1946.77 compared to 1944.33 on May 21, 2008 and 1936.12 on May 15, 2007.
Holdrege girls shine at State Soccer but lose in final 3-0 to Omaha Scutt.
Harlan County Lake elevation on May 19, 2009 was 1946.77 compared to 1944.33 on May 21, 2008 and 1936.12 on May 15, 2007.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Osborne accurate in analysis of Mike Anderson
Holdrege's Erica Sturgis at the Soccer State Tournament. Picture courtesy of the Lincoln Journal-Star.
First of all, congratulations to my daughter Jessica and Scott Wheeler on their first anniversary. Last month my oldest daughter, Sarah and Robert Baltensperger celebrated their first anniversary!
Nebraska beat Baylor on Saturday 5-0 behind Sean Yost's complete game shutout. Yost, a freshman, becomes the first Husker freshman to pitch a complete game shutout in nine years. The future is brighter. The win puts NU at 24-24-1 in 2009. Not the year they wanted.
Mike Anderson is a great role model and a great coach. When the season didn't meet up to past performances, the rumblings started. Those that understand the game have been disappointed but realize that baseball is a tough sport to coach.
Osborne, on Friday, explained some of the elements that have made it tough for NU. He said "NU lost to professional baseball 14 of 18 potential returnees and recruits who were selected in the 2007 and 2008 drafts." The Omaha World-Herald reported that NU lost seven pitchers to the draft the past two years that were drafted within the first ten rounds. They also mentioned that this year's rotation could have been Aaron Pribanic, Dan Jennings, and Zach Herr, all underclassmen that went in last year's draft.
So NU took what they had this year. In Big 12 play the ERA was 7.80 coming into this weekend. But Nesseth on Friday and Yost on Saturday have shown what good coaching and experience has done for their development.
Today, Senior Erik Bird gets his first Big 12 start. It would be great for him to close out the final game with another great performance. He has performed well during the weekday games. With a similar performance today maybe the pro scouts will take a look at this talented player.
The Holdrege girls are in the finals of the State Class B soccer tournament on Tuesday. Jordan Pfeifer scored on Friday to become the first girl in soccer state tournament history to score from western Nebraska. Sophomore Kirsten Larson scored the winning goal. Holdrege went on to win 2-1 in overtime. They beat Lincoln Pius on Saturday 1-0. Jaci Gillispie scored Holdrege's winning goal. Holdrege plays Omaha Scutt on Tuesday. Scutt haven't allowed a goal in like the last ten games. Nebraska recruit excels for Scutt. Scutt is played in the finals the past four of five years. Good luck Dusters!!
Nebraska received a commitment from Keeston Terry, a receiver from the Kansas City area. Great name for Husker football. At 6'2" and 180 lbs., Terry is listed as a four star receiver by the recruiting services. It sounds like Terry meets the criteria of who NU is going after these days; great athlete, but just as important a great student and person. NU recruits have to generally meet all three of these attributes. Also it is important that recruits come from a winning program. His coach, Terry Donahue, says his best is yet to come. Donahue was raised in Nebraska and was a former KU quarterback.
Ty Kildow is a walk on for NU football this fall. Saturday he propelled Millard South to the Class A finals in baseball. Could he be a two sport athlete also?
If you haven't seen the show Southland on Thursday nights, see it. It has become the best show on TV from this writer's view.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Spring Sports
The runner second from right is Shelby Boehler of Lincoln, Bryce's girl, competing in the 7th grade track meet at Lincoln High last Saturday! As you can see, she did well!
It is that time of year. The state track meet is next week. State tennis is near. State soccer is this week. And state golf is in a couple of weeks!! Great time of year.
A couple of Holdrege Dusters are making the news. First, junior safety Pat Ackerman has been named a team captain for the UNK football team for the 2009 season this fall!! It show what hard work and dedication can do for you.
Second, former tennis standout Marcelle Strydom is doing well at UNK for the tennis team. The team is playing in the national tournament at Altamote Springs, Florida. The Lopers won the RMAC and Central region tournament. They will play Concordia College of Bronxville, NY in the "Sweet 16" round. Strydom is the #3 singles player and is also on the #2 doubles team.
Finally, Scott Boehler's Gretna team is starting to peak late. They are the returning State Class B champions from last year.
Waverly Invite Results
May 11, 2009
Individual Medalist
- Dylan Heng – Nebraska City (70)
- Jared Gustafson – Gretna (70)
- Chase Brion – Gretna (70)
- Max Rudder – Norris (75)
- Konner Oltman – Norris (75)
- Clayton Rakes – Nebraska City (76)
- David DeBolt – Gretna (76)
- Sam Sullivan – Nebraska City (78)
- Dylan Lester – Lincoln Southwest (78)
- Hayden Thomson – Lincoln Southwest (78)
Team Standing
- Gretna – 304
- Nebraska City – 310
- Lincoln Southwest – 324
- Mt. Michael – 326
- Norris – 340
- Platteview – 341
- Crete – 344
- Elkhorn – 349
- Norfolk – 349
- Wahoo Neumann – 350
- Brownell-Talbot – 364
- Plattsmouth – 377
- Columbus – 394
- Lincoln Northeast – 414
- Waverly B – 444
- Waverly A – 620
VARSITY
Jared Gustafson 36 – 34 = 70 (2nd Place)
Chase Brion 38 – 36 = 74 (3rd Place)
David DeBolt 39 – 38 = 77 (7th Place)
Jason Wendelin 42 – 41 = 83
Patrick Carney 48 – 41 = 89
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Happy Mother's Day!
Happy Birthday Mom!! Mom is pictured with my three daughters.My mom is the nicest mother a son could ask for. She has always been there for us when we needed her. There is no one any kinder than she is. I am so lucky to have had a mother like her. Happy Mother's Day mom!! Thank you for all you have done for me!!
Jessica (left) is moving this month to her first house in Gretna!! So fun!! Kim (right) just graduated from UNL yesterday with high distinction. Wow! Sarah (Second from right) is going to have a baby in early December. How exciting!!!!!
Did you know Fred from YOUTUBE.COM fame is from Columbus, Nebraska? I didn't until I read it in the Omaha World-Herald today. He is hilarious. My favorite Fred view is when he can't find his meds. His real name is Luis Cruikshank and he attends Columbus Lakeview. He is now turning his funny videos into money through a revenue-sharing program. Finds Fred's videos on Omaha.com. Fred Figgelhorn's view of his life is much different from the real Luis Cruikshank. Fred is scared of deep swimming pools and dentists. Fred Goes Swimming is on its way to 26 million views. Be sure to check out Youtube.com or Omaha.com.
Andy Levi posted that David Ragan's car in the Nascar race last night had lost so much of the car body that driver's were putting $1 on it.
Saw the NU baseball game Friday night. NU played real well after the second inning. Nesseth was great after giving up five runs in the first and second innings. NU has a ton of young good hitters. It seems they need so really good pitchers that want to go to a very good program before they go to the pros. A couple of ace pitchers would instill a lot of confidence into this team.
Tuesday, May 05, 2009
Sunday, May 03, 2009
Briefly
The Carl Edwards wreck last week will be shown for years to come. Luckily nobody was killed on the track or in the crowd. See it here!
Dailyracing.com
This writer continues to follow the Gretna Dragons golf team coached by Scott Boehler.
Elkhorn Invite Results
April 29, 2009
Individual Medalist
1. Drew Taylor – Millard North (75)
2. Grant Riewer – Elkhorn A (77)
3. Jared Gustafson – Gretna (78)
4. Joey Hoffman – Mt. Michael (78)
5. Alex Totusek – Brownell-Talbot (78)
6. John Rasmussen – Millard South (78)
7. Matt Munro – Omaha Skutt (80)
8. Blaise Lanoha – Ralston (80)
9. Connor Lindahl – Elkhorn A (80)
10. Max Rudder – Norris (80)
11. Ryan Sutter – Millard West (80)
12. Ryan Healey – Omaha Skutt (80)
13. David DeBolt – Gretna (80)
14. Evan O’Keefe – Millard South (81)
15. Mitch Johnson – Omaha Skutt (82)
Team Standings
1. Omaha Skutt – 312
2. Elkhorn A – 317
3. Millard West – 319
4. Millard North – 321
5. Gretna – 330
6. Mt. Michael – 334
7. Millard South – 341
8. Ralston – 344
9. Norris – 351
10. Elkhorn B – 351
11. Platteview – 355
12. Omaha Burke – 356
13. Waverly – 365
14. Brownell-Talbot – 365
VARSITY
Jared Gustafson 38 – 40 = 78 (3rd Place)
David DeBolt 40 – 40 = 80 (13th Place)
Chase Brion 41 – 43 = 84
Patrick Carney 45 – 48 = 93
Carter Hawkins 51 – 48 = 99
Find out about the tragedy at the Dallas Cowboys practice facility.
ESPN
Nebraska baseball is competitive but just can't win right now. NU has lost six straight league series, 10 straight conference home games and 15 of 16 Big 12 games overall. This writer will see the string end this Friday in Lincoln!!
In today's baseball game against Missouri, there were five freshmen and one sophomore in the batting lineup. Freshmen Boomer Collins was two for five with a double, stolen base and two runs; Cory Burleson was two of four with a double; Kale Kiser had an RBI; Cody Ache was one of five with an RBI; and Khiry Cooper was one of three with two runs and a stolen base/ In addition sophomore Ben Kline was two of four with two RBI's and one run. Youth is evident. In the pitching area sophomore Sean Yost went 5.1 innings as the starter and only had two earned runs with six strikeouts. Eric Rose and Kash Kalkowski pitched for 2.1 innings. Sophomore Michael Mariot pitched the final inning with a strike out and not earned runs. Four of the Huskers five pitchers were sophomores today.
Pitching matchups for the Yankees and Boston
Monday: LHP Jon Lester (1-2, 5.40) vs. RHP Phil Hughes (1-0, 0.00), 7:05, YES, ESPN
Tuesday: RHP Joba Chamberlain (1-0, 3.13) vs. RHP Josh Beckett (2-2, 7.22), 7:05, YES
And finally a deleted scene from Parks and Recreation.
NBC
This writer continues to follow the Gretna Dragons golf team coached by Scott Boehler.
Elkhorn Invite Results
April 29, 2009
Individual Medalist
1. Drew Taylor – Millard North (75)
2. Grant Riewer – Elkhorn A (77)
3. Jared Gustafson – Gretna (78)
4. Joey Hoffman – Mt. Michael (78)
5. Alex Totusek – Brownell-Talbot (78)
6. John Rasmussen – Millard South (78)
7. Matt Munro – Omaha Skutt (80)
8. Blaise Lanoha – Ralston (80)
9. Connor Lindahl – Elkhorn A (80)
10. Max Rudder – Norris (80)
11. Ryan Sutter – Millard West (80)
12. Ryan Healey – Omaha Skutt (80)
13. David DeBolt – Gretna (80)
14. Evan O’Keefe – Millard South (81)
15. Mitch Johnson – Omaha Skutt (82)
Team Standings
1. Omaha Skutt – 312
2. Elkhorn A – 317
3. Millard West – 319
4. Millard North – 321
5. Gretna – 330
6. Mt. Michael – 334
7. Millard South – 341
8. Ralston – 344
9. Norris – 351
10. Elkhorn B – 351
11. Platteview – 355
12. Omaha Burke – 356
13. Waverly – 365
14. Brownell-Talbot – 365
VARSITY
Jared Gustafson 38 – 40 = 78 (3rd Place)
David DeBolt 40 – 40 = 80 (13th Place)
Chase Brion 41 – 43 = 84
Patrick Carney 45 – 48 = 93
Carter Hawkins 51 – 48 = 99
Find out about the tragedy at the Dallas Cowboys practice facility.
Nebraska baseball is competitive but just can't win right now. NU has lost six straight league series, 10 straight conference home games and 15 of 16 Big 12 games overall. This writer will see the string end this Friday in Lincoln!!
In today's baseball game against Missouri, there were five freshmen and one sophomore in the batting lineup. Freshmen Boomer Collins was two for five with a double, stolen base and two runs; Cory Burleson was two of four with a double; Kale Kiser had an RBI; Cody Ache was one of five with an RBI; and Khiry Cooper was one of three with two runs and a stolen base/ In addition sophomore Ben Kline was two of four with two RBI's and one run. Youth is evident. In the pitching area sophomore Sean Yost went 5.1 innings as the starter and only had two earned runs with six strikeouts. Eric Rose and Kash Kalkowski pitched for 2.1 innings. Sophomore Michael Mariot pitched the final inning with a strike out and not earned runs. Four of the Huskers five pitchers were sophomores today.
Pitching matchups for the Yankees and Boston
Monday: LHP Jon Lester (1-2, 5.40) vs. RHP Phil Hughes (1-0, 0.00), 7:05, YES, ESPN
Tuesday: RHP Joba Chamberlain (1-0, 3.13) vs. RHP Josh Beckett (2-2, 7.22), 7:05, YES
And finally a deleted scene from Parks and Recreation.
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