Huskers look ahead following positive spring session

By Terry Dombkowski  |   Wednesday, April 26, 2006  |  Comments( 1 )

Nebraska Cornhuskers
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With this year's spring practice now in the rear-view mirror, Coach Bill Callahan and his staff can begin to focus on the road ahead. And while there's no question that this Nebraska Cornhuskers squad has the talent to make some noise in 2006, the team's success may hinge on the answers to several important questions.

First and foremost, can the team find balance on offense? QB Zac Taylor thrived last season within Callahan's West Coast offense, throwing for a Nebraska single-season record 2,653 yards while also tossing 19 TD's. However, the rushing attack was downright anemic, averaging just 96 yards a game (107th in the nation). So, what have the Huskers done thus far in '06 to remedy the problem? For starters, Nebraska recruited heavily on the O-Line, adding seven scholarship players to the position. This should hopefully provide the backs with bigger holes and better opportunities this season. Callahan and his staff also stressed the importance of improving the running game during spring ball. Cody Glenn and Marlon Lucky responded by impressing throughout the month long session, and capped off their efforts with solid performances in the Red-White game. Glenn rushed for 98 yards on 16 carries, while Lucky carried for 85 yards on 15 carries and 2 TD's. The ground attack will be a constant point of emphasis throughout the summer and into camp, but Husker fans should certainly be encouraged by the early returns.


Another concern in Lincoln has to do with whether or not Tierre Green will fit in at the strong safety position? After starting the first seven games as CB in 2005, Green will attempt to take over for the departing Daniel Bullocks this season. While Green is undoubtedly one of the top athletes on the roster, the position change is one worth monitoring. Coach Callahan doesn't seem to be all that concerned, as he strongly believes Green will make a smooth transition. If Green is indeed able to perform in this role, he should add strength and quickness to an already impressive defense, one which ranked 26th nationally in 2005.


Lastly, will this year's early season schedule help or hinder the Huskers come October? Nebraska will play four of its first five games in Lincoln, so this obviously represents a great chance to gather some momentum for the season. It will also be interesting to see how Nebraska handles the trip to USC on September 16th, as a victory in this game would further build upon last season's bowl win against Michigan. Aside from the Trojans, Nebraska will play La. Tech, Nicholls St., Troy, and Kansas in September. These teams had a combined record of 24-20 in 2005, so the Huskers can go a long way towards a successful season by taking care of business against these opponents. If all goes well, the confidence could prove vital as Nebraska heads into conference play.


In the coming months, the answers to these questions will gradually become clearer, and the prospects for the 2006 season will start to take shape. As for now, there is reason for optimism in Lincoln, as players and fans alike hope to push on through towards another special season.
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