Saturday, September 22, 2012

Nonconference apetizers over, on to main course


Cynics may despise games like this because from a competition point of view, Nebraska’s 73-7 win over Idaho State does nothing for the Huskers. Well, it’ll bring out the cynics that question the motivation for scheduling teams like Idaho State.

Unfortunately, those people miss the point. Teams will get their challenges in conference play and Nebraska is no different. So why not have games like this to build a big lead early and get the backups meaningful snaps they won’t get in close games. Also, Idaho State got a $600,000 payday that will help them continue fielding athletic programs.

The Huskers accomplished their goals of win decisively, allow the reserves some playing time, and survive without significant injuries. Sometimes when you play a lesser opponent, you can play down to your competition. Running back Rex Burkhead barely broke a sweat but shook off some rust and the defense had a chance to give some young replacements much needed snaps before Wisconsin comes to Lincoln next Saturday night. The season appetizers are over and now we are on to the main course of Big Ten play.

On to conference play after a 3-1 start. The loss to UCLA still stings, especially since the Bruins were handled at home today by Oregon St. At least we are not Iowa losing at home to Central Michigan or Illinois who got bombed in Champaign by Louisiana Tech. The Huskers have perhaps the best offense in the B1G. If the defense can step up their play, the Huskers have as good a shot as anyone to lay claim to their first ever Big Ten crown. Next week we have a shot at some redemption for the blowout loss in Madison. Here's hoping it's the first step toward a Legends Division title.

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