I remember that Baul played soccer at Papio. I am sure his speed and athleticism were a nightmare in the open field of soccer.
He wasn't the most skilled on the pitch. In fact he was average at best with his skill sets, but we couldn't play an offsides trap on him because he was just so damn fast. Average skills be damned, 1-1 with a keeper he'll still win more times than not. And playing our D back against him just opened up the mid field for his more skilled teammates. His team throttled us every time. And yes, he was a nightmare for me. He actually went to Colorado St on a soccer scholarship before transferring back to UNL. Because I played against him a few times, I always rooted for him. Same with Strickland, different sport, but I played some pick up basketball games against him when we were both in HS. Felt like I had a personal connection to both of them so I rooted more for them to succeed. Even though neither would probably no me from Adam down the street.
I have played in a pick up game with him also. I didn't guard him but to this day I still remember how quick he was.
I love the guys from Nebraska who did the dirty work. Dean Steinkuher and Dave Rimington were my favorites back in the day. Chris Dishman and Eric Anderson were fun to watch too. I always liked sure handed receivers like Matt Herian, Nate Swift and Todd Peterson. Tom Rathman was a beast at fb and I can't forget Keith 'End Zone' Jones. He was a blast to watch.
Just nit picking, but Swift was from Minnesota. Still a heck of a player though.
You are right. Thanks for pointing that out! He was a steady receiver for us for sure..