walksalone Posted August 27, 2008 Share Posted August 27, 2008 Big 12 links: Will ground attack return to Nebraska? August 26, 2008 10:10 AM Posted by ESPN.com's Tim Griffin Nebraska's punishing ground attack historically has been as big a part of the Cornhuskers' storied program as Herbie Husker, sellout crowds at Memorial Stadium and Academic All-Americans. Consider that between 1977 and 2003, Nebraska ranked at least seventh or higher every season in the national rushing rankings. That's right: seventh or better. And in 13 of those seasons the Cornhuskers led the nation in rushing. That's why the rankings during the four seasons of Bill Callahan's tenure -- 34th, 107th, 23rd and 66th -- were so disappointing. Two of the four teams even threw the ball more than it ran. How un-Nebraskalike, even in this age of spread passing offenses. Most observers are expecting Nebraska to more effectively run the ball this season. Some are even predicting a smash-mouth running attack keyed by an experienced offensive line and four strong I-backs led by Big 12 returning rushing leader Marlon Lucky. Running the ball would also provide a way for new coach Bo Pelini to keep his defense off the field, dominating time of possession and lessening the time his defensive unit will have to make plays. Senior Nebraska offensive guard Matt Slauson told the Omaha World-Herald it would be noticeable compared to his previous seasons. "We're going to line up and smash guys, and if it works, we're going to keep doing it," Slauson told the newspaper. Which tells me one thing. Simple dives and off-tackle smashes won't be nearly as unpopular among Nebraska fans as they might be at other places across the Big 12 this season. Link Just the thought of this, makes me smile inside... Quote Link to comment
cornhuskers4ever Posted August 27, 2008 Share Posted August 27, 2008 I'd LOVE to see a return to smashmouth football. If teams would have to worry about the run, it really opens up the pass. It was awesome in the past when Nebraska would have other teams worn down by the 4th quarter. Quote Link to comment
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