We're in an interesting period of Nebraska football history. What's particularly intriguing is the number of people who seem OK with the Huskers winning only eight games this season. Those folks blame the state of affairs on Bo Pelini's lackluster recruiting and the culture he left behind. That faction will tell you Riley and company have had plenty to overcome.
Meanwhile, those skeptical of Riley and athletic director Shawn Eichorst tell you the current culture in the program lacks accountability. That faction points not only to the recent busts, but also to 2016 senior co-captain Nate Gerry's bowl-game suspension last season. The standout safety says he came up three credits short of being eligible to participate, a remarkable development considering Nebraska's tradition of academic excellence.
"Gerry was a 'Bo guy!'" ardent Riley/Eichorst supporters shouted.
Meanwhile, those skeptical of Riley/Eichorst note the program's Academic Progress Rate falling during the 2015-16 academic year. Nebraska now ranks eighth among Big Ten teams after ranking sixth last year.
Skeptics also use as ammunition Husker receivers coach Keith Williams' arrest last August for third-offense DUI.