Sizing up the storylines
NU (sort of) enters Heisman picture
Oklahoma running back Adrian Peterson and quarterback Jason White figure prominently in the Heisman Trophy race. Nebraska? Well, the Huskers might have some say in the matter since they have the daunting task of facing the Sooners' top playmakers tonight. What a great picture to get caught in, huh? The 6-foot-2, 210-pound Peterson ranks fifth nationally in rushing (152.6 yards per game) and averaged 191.3 yards against the three ranked opponents OU's faced to date. White, last year's Heisman winner, has fired 16 touchdowns and only one interception over the last four games. Peterson takes pressure off White, which means White can apply even more pressure on defenses than he did last year. No wonder the Sooners are on the verge of capturing the Big 12 South Division title.
For entertainment purposes only
Think about it. Think about how intimidating Memorial Stadium in Lincoln becomes for night games. Now, consider tonight's 6:10 p.m. kickoff at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium in Norman. You think the place might be rocking a little? You think the atmosphere might be slightly intimidating for the visitors? Now, consider Oklahoma's significant edge in overall talent. And consider the fact it's the Sooners' Senior Night, which typically sparks an emotional boost. And consider that undefeated Oklahoma is in the national championship race, which means the Sooners probably won't be lackadaisical. And, finally, consider Nebraska's performances in its last three Big 12 road games. Now, perhaps you understand why Oklahoma is a four-touchdown favorite, a spread that raised eyebrows in Husker Nation this week.
Now, it's Bo's turn
Last week, former Nebraska offensive coordinator Barney Cotton, who now has the same job at Iowa State, put together a masterful game plan as the Cyclones defeated the Huskers 34-27 in Ames. Cotton took the high road during the week leading up to the game and again afterward, keeping the focus where it belongs: On the players. This week, former NU defensive coordinator Bo Pelini, now the co-coordinator at OU, has chosen the same path, saying tonight's game isn't about him. Although Pelini has remained mostly mum, you know the fiery coach is churning inside. And you have to wonder what kind of psychological impact Pelini will have on the Nebraska defenders who played so well for him in 2003.
OK, snap out of it
Close your eyes and allow yourself to dream, Husker fans. Think about Baylor surprising Texas A&M a few weeks ago. Remember North Carolina's stunning upset of Miami. Think about the parity that has entrenched itself in the college game. Indeed, no team is safe anymore, right? Think about the impact a Nebraska victory would have on Bill Callahan's Big Red reclamation project. Think about what a win would do for the mood of Husker Nation. Think about what a Husker triumph would do for Joe Dailey's confidence and for the Blackshirts' sagging spirits. Think about the positive national media coverage that would ensue. OK, now wake up. Oklahoma 42, Nebraska 17.
Oklahoma running back Adrian Peterson and quarterback Jason White figure prominently in the Heisman Trophy race. Nebraska? Well, the Huskers might have some say in the matter since they have the daunting task of facing the Sooners' top playmakers tonight. What a great picture to get caught in, huh? The 6-foot-2, 210-pound Peterson ranks fifth nationally in rushing (152.6 yards per game) and averaged 191.3 yards against the three ranked opponents OU's faced to date. White, last year's Heisman winner, has fired 16 touchdowns and only one interception over the last four games. Peterson takes pressure off White, which means White can apply even more pressure on defenses than he did last year. No wonder the Sooners are on the verge of capturing the Big 12 South Division title.
For entertainment purposes only
Think about it. Think about how intimidating Memorial Stadium in Lincoln becomes for night games. Now, consider tonight's 6:10 p.m. kickoff at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium in Norman. You think the place might be rocking a little? You think the atmosphere might be slightly intimidating for the visitors? Now, consider Oklahoma's significant edge in overall talent. And consider the fact it's the Sooners' Senior Night, which typically sparks an emotional boost. And consider that undefeated Oklahoma is in the national championship race, which means the Sooners probably won't be lackadaisical. And, finally, consider Nebraska's performances in its last three Big 12 road games. Now, perhaps you understand why Oklahoma is a four-touchdown favorite, a spread that raised eyebrows in Husker Nation this week.
Now, it's Bo's turn
Last week, former Nebraska offensive coordinator Barney Cotton, who now has the same job at Iowa State, put together a masterful game plan as the Cyclones defeated the Huskers 34-27 in Ames. Cotton took the high road during the week leading up to the game and again afterward, keeping the focus where it belongs: On the players. This week, former NU defensive coordinator Bo Pelini, now the co-coordinator at OU, has chosen the same path, saying tonight's game isn't about him. Although Pelini has remained mostly mum, you know the fiery coach is churning inside. And you have to wonder what kind of psychological impact Pelini will have on the Nebraska defenders who played so well for him in 2003.
OK, snap out of it
Close your eyes and allow yourself to dream, Husker fans. Think about Baylor surprising Texas A&M a few weeks ago. Remember North Carolina's stunning upset of Miami. Think about the parity that has entrenched itself in the college game. Indeed, no team is safe anymore, right? Think about the impact a Nebraska victory would have on Bill Callahan's Big Red reclamation project. Think about what a win would do for the mood of Husker Nation. Think about what a Husker triumph would do for Joe Dailey's confidence and for the Blackshirts' sagging spirits. Think about the positive national media coverage that would ensue. OK, now wake up. Oklahoma 42, Nebraska 17.
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