Game #5

Well, it's been a long week here in Husker Nation as every fan from every corner of the state has tried to understand just what is taking place within the confines of the NU practice facilities. Defensive coordinator Kevin Cosgrove has been roasted time and again, and is on the hot seat as he tries to lead his coveted Blackshirt Defense into conference play today. Will they forge and identity and take their game up a notch? Have they figured out just what has gone so terribly wrong over the past few weeks? Can they get back to the level of play which is so highly expected of them from those who treasure Nebraska football? Can they overcome the millions of boos heard from the Sea of Red after last week's performance? These questions, and a whole bunch more, seek answers as the Cyclones of Iowa State come calling today.

What has struck me over the past week in reading all of the reports, articles, blogs, and comments from both players and fans is the lack of an emerging leader on defense. Make no mistake, the Huskers have plenty of talent on defense. Pure, raw, big-time talent. But all the talent in the world makes no difference if no one can take the reigns and lead said talent. It seems to me the defense of the Huskers has no one to really step up and get in the players faces to motivate them. A mistake here or a miscue there is simply shrugged off as and "oh well, we'll get it next time." Someone has to emerge and put an end to "oh well." Linebacker Cory Mckeon, who was a star on last year's defense, made comments this week that the defense gets hit in the mouth and takes a step back. Wow. That's not Nebraska Blackshirt defense, folks. The Blackshirts get hit in the mouth, get up, and hit back harder. Assuming, of course, there is a leader on the field.

So, my hope for this week is that someone on the defensive side of the ball steps up today. Someone emerges as the leader. Someone gets hit in the mouth, gets up, and hits back so hard that all of Husker Nation smiles. Today, I believe, will be a turning point in the season as Nebraska begins conference play. There is no reason why Iowa State should even be in the game come half time today. If that's the case, then Nebraska has taken to heart what has happened the past few weeks and they have learned from it. If, however, they continue to be lethargic and desolate, then it becomes clear that this team has issues they are unable to overcome.

I predict we see a better team than in the last few weeks, though still not up to their potential. The defense allows a couple of touchdowns and a couple of field goals as the Cyclones score 20. Sam Keller and the offense continue to shine enroute to a 35-point effort. Huskers 35, Cyclones 20.

The Lady Huskers continued their steamrolling on Wednesday night, blasting Kansas 3-0. They prepare to host the Baylor Bears tonight at the Coliseum.

GO BIG RED!!!!