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CU report: Not the same Huskers

By B.G. Brooks, Rocky Mountain News (Contact)

Published November 20, 2008 at 8:24 p.m.

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When the Buffaloes offensive coaches compare tape of the 2007 and 2008 Nebraska defenses, they quickly reach a consensus: Someone turned on the Cornhuskers' motor this season.

That someone is first-year coach Bo Pelini, a fiery former defensive coordinator (Oklahoma, Louisiana State) who apparently has delivered on a Day 1 pledge to Nebraska fans.

CU running game coordinator/ offensive line coach Jeff Grimes only knows Pelini by what he has seen on tape, but Grimes is able to say with certainty, "I'm sure he went in there and said, 'Hey, we've got to get back to the fundamentals of defense - playing hard and playing physical.' "

Grimes said Nebraska's 2007 defense, which ended a calamitous season by allowing 65 points to CU in the final game, showed multiple looks (blitzes, coverages) but ended up being vulnerable.

"This year, it looks like they're putting a lot more pressure on their defensive linemen to get to the quarterback," Grimes said, noting the Cornhuskers' front is the defense's strength.

"They definitely still blitz, but they're more in a four-man rush and really try hard to rely on that front to stop the run . . . they're very stout. Those defensive tackles are physical and playing a lot harder this year - especially (tackle Ndamukong) Suh. He's way more physical this year, and we see a lot more consistency in their (overall) effort.

"It looks different than it did last year."

Say bye, say hello rest

Some coaches are lukewarm toward bye weeks, particularly if their offenses are clicking and might be in danger of losing any rhythm.

That isn't the case with the Buffs. In fact, the time off between games can't do anything but help CU on several fronts.

More practice for an offense still struggling to find itself can't hurt. And additional time for healing purposes is welcome.

"It gives both teams a chance to heal up a little bit, which is probably a good thing," coach Dan Hawkins said.

The Buffs practiced Thursday. They take today off, have game-condition work Saturday at Folsom Field, then take Sunday off.

Thanksgiving break begins today at the end of classes.

Numbers game

340rushing yards against Kansas State were Nebraska's most in a Big 12 game since 2002 (352 against Kansas).

Comments

  • November 21, 2008

    11:30 a.m.

    Suggest removal

    MightyMickey writes:

    GO BIG RED!!!!!

  • November 21, 2008

    5:40 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    NQ writes:

    GO BUFFS!!!!!!!!

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