Don’t expect a letdown versus OSU for Nebraska

By Josh Lashley  |   Monday, June 11, 2007  |  Comments( 2 )

Nebraska Cornhuskers
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If one were to gaze back to the 2006 Nebraska football season and consider some of the Cornhuskers' highlights, he or she could point to the narrow victory over Texas A&M in College Station, the thumping of Colorado at home in the regular-season finale, and, of course, the fact that they were Big 12 North champs.

On the other hand, if one were to look for a moment where Nebraska was down in the dumps, he or she could zero in on the fourth-quarter collapse against Oklahoma State in Stillwater. Nebraska held a three-point lead heading into the final stanza before the Cowboys lit up the scoreboard with 21 straight points and ultimately downed the Huskers, 41-29. OSU went on to a 7-6 overall mark that was topped off with a 34-31 win over Alabama in the Independence Bowl.

This fall, Nebraska has designs on winning the North crown again, and to do so, it may have to guard against another OSU scoring explosion when the two teams meet in Lincoln on Oct. 13. One thing's almost assuredly true: The Cowboys will have the type of talent needed to put up huge offensive numbers.

Junior quarterback Bobby Reid, the starter in 2006, returns and has ample skill around him. Senior Dantrell Savage, the leading rusher from a year ago, is back, and so is the versatile Keith Toston (sophomore), who is a threat as a runner or receiver.

Standout senior Adarius Bowman should lead a deep receiving corps that also includes formidable tight end Brandon Pettigrew. Sophomores Artrell Woods and Jeremy Broadway are among the players who can add depth at wide receiver.

Undoubtedly, Oklahoma State's offense should be fun to watch. However, the big question centers around whether the Cowboys' defense can show the kind of improvement needed to rise further above the .500 mark than the team achieved in 2006.

The linebackers for OSU could be strong with the likes of Alex Odiari (junior), Pat Lavine (sophomore) and seniors Jeremy Nethon and Rodrick Johnson. Seniors Donovan Woods (safety) and Martel Van Zant (cornerback), junior CB Jacob Lacey and sophomore safety Andre Sexton could be severely tested not only against the Huskers but against several Big 12 foes. OSU will of course have to find a cohesive defensive line as well.

One week prior to the game in Lincoln, Oklahoma State will face Texas A&M on the road. By the time the Cowboys arrive in Lincoln, they could be ready for a double-digit loss. The Huskers just have to make sure there are no more letdowns.
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