The Weekly Buzz: Watch These Games
There are a few game this week that Husker fans have reason to watch. Some of our future opponents are at critical junctions in the first week of the season.
Missouri vs. Illinois » In my book, this is the game of the week, period. The Tigers have A LOT of pressure to win. By no means will the loser's season be over, but it will be an uphill climb from here on out. Missouri will have to have a short memory before going in to Big 12 play if they can't pull this one out. Illinois has the upper hand in that they're not expected to beat a National Championship contender right out of the gate. As any Husker fan knows, expectations are the harshest tools of fans and media alike.
Virginia Tech vs. East Carolina » How have the off-season personnel losses affected the Hokies? It should be clear by the end of this game if this is the same caliber of team that went 11-3 last year. It's critical to find out what level of competition we're going to be facing in a couple of weeks in order to game plan for them.
LSU vs. Appalachian State » How serious is Bo Pelini's effect as a defensive mastermind? LSU should still win this game handily, but will Appalachian state throw another surprise? Bo wouldn't let it happen.
Ohio vs. Wyoming » I know, I know, get over Frank Solich. But I like hearing how the guy is doing. He had a 6-6 season last year and it looks to go a little down hill in 2008. He decided to move from option to pass attack in 2004, and it's been a struggle to get the necessary adjustments to happen. Phil Steele's College Football Guide says this: “If Solich pulls out a winning record, I'll give him my vote for MAC coach of the year.â€? I guess it's not going so well...
Other good games this week:
Alabama vs. Clemson » One of the top games of the week, this should just be fun to watch.
Michigan vs. Utah » Will the Wolverines have a breakdown like last year? The Utes are a much better team than Michigan's first opponent in 2007, but Michigan is better, too. Uncertainty abounds in college football this year.
8/30/2008
Thanks for the guide, Tom.
Watching ECU vs VTech now.
Glennon sucks. But Beamer ball (turnovers and special teams) is leading the way.
How long will that redshirt stay on Taylor??? As an NU fan, I hope Glennon keeps that job!
Omaha, NE
8/30/2008
Agreed on Glennon. Taylor’s shirt status was the best news of this past week for Nebraska fans.
Other random thoughts:
—I think Mizzou will make mincemeat out of the Illini. Ever had mincemeat? It’s terrible.
—Really interested to see Michigan-Utah, mostly because the Wolverine offense is, to this point, an enigma wrapped in Rich Rodriguez.
—A tad surprised that Hawaii is still hanging around in the Swamp.
—Is anyone watching Syracuse-Northwestern? Didn’t think so.