Pelini safe unless 2012 is a disaster

With Year No. 5 of the Bo Pelini era forthcoming, one question pondered among media and fans alike has been, “is this a make or break season for Pelini?”

The supporters would say that he has amassed a 39-16 record and has twice had the Huskers on the doorstep of the conference championship. The detractors would say, “Well, he’s been a success but only compared to his predecessor, Bill Callahan.” The Huskers went 27-22 in Callahan’s four seasons, which included two years without even being bowl eligible. The detractors would also point out that in Pelini’s first year, Nebraska went 9-4, which represented a marked improvement over Callahan’s 5-7 campaign in 2007 but have not done better than 10-4 since that time.  

Pelini came to Lincoln with high expectations and has frankly failed to live up to them so far. Making it to the Holiday Bowl and the Capital One Bowl does not cut it at Nebraska. However, I would say it’s a make or break season only if 2012 is really bad, as in six or more losses. Pelini has built a solid foundation, both on the field and, perhaps more importantly, off as well. There is enough talent to win the conference and play in BCS, if they play well. I think it may be make or break for Taylor Martinez at quarterback, but Pelini’s job is safe, barring a total collapse.

I would sum his tenure as Solichism with a snarl. Nothing innovative, just that warmed-over Bobby Knight us against the world philosophy. He is certainly not in the top or even second tier of coaches. The schedule for 2012, however, does present its share of pitfalls so I think a pass is going to be somewhat given.

The 2013 campaign, however, that is the judgment year. The schedule is very favorable for NU, and sets up for a Big 10 Championship game and BCS Bowl Bid. If he can’t get it done in 2013, then a long and hard look needs to be taken. You also got to remember how loyal current Nebraska athletic director Tom Osborne is with his coaches. He gives them a long leash, because he remembers the 1980s when fans wanted his head on a silver platter. The man started to break up at the Doc Sadler firing and was torn up about that. How do you think he'll feel having to let go of HIS pick and hire in Bo Pelini?