GSG
Assistant Coach
http://cfn.scout.com/2/990837.html20. Nebraska
Predicted Record:: 10-2
Key to the Season:: Defenses have to fear the passing game more, and the better ones won’t until the quarterbacks play better. Last year, Nebraska threw just one touchdown pass with nine interceptions in the four losses and 15 touchdown passes and a mere three picks in the nine wins.
Relative Strength: Defensive Line, Secondary
Relative Weakness: Quarterback
What to watch for on offense: The quarterback situation. Zac Lee really was supposed to be a great talent who could be a dangerous all-around playmaker for the offense, but he didn’t exactly look the part last year. While a big boost in production can’t be ruled out, Nebraska can’t win the national title unless Lee plays far, far better. If he can’t handle the work, then sophomore Cody Green, a good young prospect, has to show he can handle the reins. Could a potential championship season be in the hands of an untested prospect like Taylor Martinez? Everything else is in place on offense, so if the quarterback play is merely adequate (and consistent), then the O could be every bit as good as the D.
What to watch for on defense: The Peso. It’s a quirky way Nebraska will term its 4-2 -5 alignment as it tries to counteract the more dangerous passing teams with a fifth defensive back who’ll do a little bit of everything. After trying it out a bit last year, the formation proved to be so successful that the Pelini brothers might make it the norm. The versatility will be there to seamlessly move in and out of the alignment.
Fun Stat: Field goals: Nebraska 24-of-28 – Opponents 12-of-24
Top 10
1. Alabama
2. Ohio State
3. Georgia
4. Florida
5. Oklahoma
6. Wisconsin
7. TCU
8. Boise State
9. Virginia Tech
10. Texas