Michigan Another Big Game

Once upon a time in both the Big Eight and Big Ten, it wasn't uncommon for the superpowers to have what was essentially a one game season. Oklahoma-Nebraska would decide the Big 8. Ohio State-Michigan would determine the Big 10. But things have changed. A year ago, the critical game for Nebraska going into the season looked like Michigan State. The Huskers won that game and yet still did not advance to the Big Ten Championship Game. This year, Michigan looks like the most critical game on the schedule. It won't be the only game that matters, yet it's hard to imagine a division title without a victory under the lights against the Wolverines in Lincoln.

 

The frightening thing about UM is that they probably have the best player on either team. Quarterback Denard Robinson is as hard to defend as anyone we've seen in college football in recent years. Running back Fitzgerald Toussaint is solid enough to make it hard to key solely on Robinson. If there's an Achilles heel, it will be some newcomers on the defensive line. Likely starters Jibreel Black (defensive tackle) and Brennen Beyer (defensive end) both seem undersized. There's plenty of experience behind them, but that may not matter if the D-line gets handled up front.

That limitation may provide enough opportunity for the Husker offense to function. And NU will likely need to score a fair amount of points to outpace Robinson. If the tandem of quarterback Taylor Martinez and running back Rex Burkhead can hold serve with (or eclipse) Robinson and Toussaint, then things like the home field and special teams can be the difference.

A win won't guarantee a division title for Nebraska, but it seems essential in order for the Huskers to reach that goal. Not the only important game, but bigger than any other on the regular season schedule.