The Weekly Buzz

During spring practice, when competition is rife and coaches won't dare release a depth chart, we can gauge where players are at only based on the buzz surrounding their position battles. There is a lot being said about running backs behind Roy Helu, Jr, a few things about the Tight Ends now that Mike McNeill is an "Adjuster", and much about which cornerback will be filling in the hybrid or "peso" roll that has been talked about this week. And as much as Coach Bo Pelini wants to downplay some of this, we've got nothing better than to discuss backups and non-starters until April 17th.

Rex 2.0 » OWH coined this phrase to describe the transformation Rex Burkhead has undergone, bulking up and apparently gaining some insight. Favorite thing I've heard, this little gem: The game's slowed down. I'm not just thinking about where I need to run, but what I need to do when I get there. That's a major difference. A little more about his thought process shows that he's very aware of the team around him, and has a great head on his shoulders.

Don't forget about the D-Train » Burkhead isn't the only one bulking up, as Dontrayevous Robinson has increased his size to 236 pounds. Steve analyzed what kind of role this would mean for him this season, and some even think he's the number one guy that's not a starter to watch out for in this off-season.

Mike McNeill mismatch mania » He's hoping the newly minted receiver/adjuster/Dallas Clark position will be giving fits to defensive coordinators all around the league. With many tight end responsibilities shifted to some of the younger guys, competition is pretty fierce. Steve thinks the stars are aligned for Kyler Reed to take the stage.

Nickel, peso, and dime worth every penny » Our non-standard sets seem to be getting a lot of attention due to the wide experience and talent available in the defensive backfield. Darren voices everyone's concern about the speculation and appearance that it cuts a linebacker spot, but Carl Pelini says it's still just like a base 4-3 set. Steve is concerned about the susceptibility of that set to a heavy run-oriented offense, but Brandon is worried about the most important aspect, what to call this new position.