More than X's, O's for Husker receivers By Sam McKewon
LINCOLN — Johnny Rodgers and Irving Fryar aside, receiver has been a relatively thankless job in Nebraska football history. More grit than glory. More blocks than big plays. But, to the casual Husker fan, it's also been a pretty blameless role.
Until 2009, when Menelik Holt couldn't secure a sure touchdown pass in a 16-15 loss at Virginia Tech. And two bizarre fumbles by Niles Paul hurt the Huskers in losses to Texas Tech and Iowa State.
Or 2010, when drops by just about every guy in red helped Texas pull a 20-13 upset.
"The receivers have always been on the butt-end of things," said Brandon Kinnie, entering his third year at NU. "It's always been like it's the fault of the receivers. I ... took that to heart."
Said junior slot receiver Tim Marlowe: "We haven't been the strongest crew. We've had some good players, but we haven't shown up in some of the bigger games. We're taking it upon ourselves to be the difference-makers."
So is new receivers coach Rich Fisher, who drills this mantra into his troops: Don't be the reason we lose. Be the reason we win. Make plays.