Friday, April 17, 2009

Spring game 2009 things to look for

Spring Game No. 2 of the Bo Pelini is nearly here and if last year is any indication, you won’t be seeing any exhibition like play of the No. 1 offense going against the No. 4 defense like we did in four years of the Bill Callahan era.

Everyone has their own idea of what they would like to see. I have mine:

Barry Turner is back but how much of an impact can he make?

Turner’s return from knee surgery that cause him to miss virtually all of the 2008 season could help Nebraska become the Top 25 defense they need to be. Keep in mind, Matt Herian returned from a broken leg in 2006 but was only a shadow of his former self. Let’s hope Turner can be a difference maker.

Receivers have more speed but can they be sure-handed and block downfield?

The Husker offense could have used more speed at receiver last season. They will get that element this season with additions like Curenski Gilleylen and converted running back Marcus Mendoza. Nebraska, however, lost Nate Swift and Todd Petersen to graduation. Neither was a downfield blazer but were tough in traffic, in the clutch and as downfield blockers. Gilleylen has improved his hands; Antonio Bell could be the most complete receiver by the time he develops. Antonio Bell will be a big threat this year. Competition for the X receiver spot has been intense between Will Henry and Menelik Holt.

Who steps up on the O-Line, Ricky Henry or DJ Jones?

With projected starting tackle Javoirio Burkes out indefinitely due to an unclosed medical condition, the Huskers will need one if not both to fill the void quickly.

What will we see from Baker Steinkuhler?

When the Huskers recruited Steinkuhler, who is the son of former Husker great Dean Steinkuhler and brother of recently graduated Ty Steinkuhler, much was asked on where he fits in – as an offensive or defensive tackle? Baker Steinkuhler redshirted last season and the Huskers have him at defensive tackle. Can Baker become the stud tackle that takes over after Ndamukong Suh graduates?

Is Zac Lee ready?

The Spring Game format probably won’t tell us a whole but the biggest issue is making the right reads and handling the pressure within the pocket. Most importantly, he has to take command of the offense.

Are Castille’s fumbling problems a thing of the past?

With Roy Helu being held out for precautionary reasons, Quentin Castille will get a lot of attention along with Lester Ward, Austin Jones and Jeremy Wallace. Castille did not fumble in the Huskers 26-21 Gator Bowl win. Is that an aberration or a sign of things to come.
Who stands out in the defensive backfield?Turnovers did not come by the bushel as many anticipated last season with the return of Pelini and defensive backs coach Marvin Sanders. In fact, last season things were an adventure in the secondary at times. I’ll be interested to see if another year in the scheme will mean the DBs being in a better position to make plays.

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