Restore the Order

The last couple of days have been quite the whirlwind in Husker Nation. If you don't follow Husker athletics (which is beyond my capacity for rational thought, people), then you may not be aware that Nebraska Athletic Director Steve Pederson was fired on Monday, and Tom Osborne was hired yesterday as the new AD. This latest turn of events has been all the talk in every small-town barber shop, market, and Mom and Pop cafe across the plains of Nebraska. Dare I say, this is exactly what needed to happen for the University.

When he was originally hired, Pederson seemed like the perfect choice to lead the athletic department at Nebraska. He is from North Platte, graduated from the University, was on the athletic department staff, and had deep roots and knowledge of Nebraska tradition and philosophy. All of that came crashing down when he opted to fire head football coach Frank Solich after a 9-3 season. How he handled the firing, and the subsequent hiring of Bill Callahan, did not settle well with the Husker faithful. His management style, slyness, and refusal to keep fans and athletic department staff apprised of the goings-on from his office, ultimately led to his dismissal. He has done a few things right, but far more wrong.

Enter Tom Osborne. A huge sense of relief is settling over Husker Nation now, as T.O. will bring with him the knowledge and understanding of what makes Nebraska unique. Hard work, dedication, honesty and integrity. All the things which the University of Nebraska was built on, and all of the traits which seem to have been lost in the name of big-time coaches, flashy resumes, and eight-pound playbooks.

Meanwhile, there's still nearly a half-season of football to be played. It will be interesting to see how the players and coaches respond after all the distractions this week. Especially since Callahan and Company have to figure they will be out of a job by the end of the season. Some would argue if Callahan can win out, he'll keep his job. That's a tall order given the level of play he's gotten from his club the last few weeks, and given the brutal schedule he'll face the rest of the way. It all remains to be seen, and the drama which will unfold over the next six weeks will for sure keep Husker Nation captivated.

Welcome back, Dr. Tom.

Restore the Order.

GO BIG RED!!