A few final Buffs thoughts...
* After the game, Colorado coach Dan Hawkins thanked his seniors. He also looked to the future, praising his returning players.
"They are not quitters, and they never quit," the coach said. "We just have to build a body of confidence in the offseason so that we can have an intensity coming out to start the season. I think it's one of those seasons where if you take away 10 plays, you are probably a bowl team."
(No word if Hawk was asked to identify those 10 plays).
* Hawkins, on coming back next year as head coach: "(Athletic director) Mike Bohn and the Chancellor (Phil DiStefano) have been really good to me ever since I came here. I think they have great perspective on the chore that this was. More than anybody, they have an understanding of all the little things that go into this deal. I am obviously very honored that they believe in me and us and in what we are doing."
* Colorado linebacker B.J. Beatty, on Nebraska's 13-play, 80-yard scoring drive that produced Nebraska's 28-14 lead. "They dug in, and did a good job. Just like Coach (defensive coordinator Ron) Collins was saying throughout the week, 'If you don't get in your gap, or do your assignment, they are going to bust it for a gain."
* Fullback Jake Behrens, on the Buffaloes' inability to finish off drives: "It was tough. Penalties killed us; they have been killing us all year. It's just stupid stuff. It's not them doing anything special, we just shoot ourselves in the foot. The good news is, we have talent."
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A few final thoughts . . .
* A quick clarification: The officials waived off the Buffs' PAT after their touchdown with no time left on the clock because it wouldn't have impacted the outcome of the game. They apparently have discretion in that regard (any officials out there?).
* I like Bo Pelini being critical of his team after a win. He always wants more. It's why Nebraska continues to improve as a program.
* In that regard, Nebraska now has back-to-back nine-win seasons for the first time since an NCAA-record 33 straight nine-win seasons from 1969-2001. This is NU's first nine-win regular season since 2006.
* Nebraska finished 4-0 on the road in Big 12 Conference play, marking NU's first perfect Big 12 road season since 1997. The Huskers have won five straight on the road in conference play dating to last season.
* Nebraska's triumph was its seventh straight in the month of November and improved the Huskers to 7-1 in November under Pelini. NU is 9-1 in games played on or after Nov. 1 under the second-year head coach (including two bowl victories).
* This obviously wasn't a pretty win. But I like the fact Nebraska has an overall identity: Win with reliable defense, excellent special teams and an offense that is opportunity oriented and often little else. I delved into that subject extensively in my column for Sunday.
* Enjoy a fine Saturday of watching football!
* Trust me, we as a staff are thankful for your constant contributions to our blog.
more»Beck stays with hot hand
Rex Burkhead ended the day with 18 carries for 100 yards. His previous career high was nine carries for 39 yards against Florida Atlantic.
Roy Helu started buy carried it just 14 times for 54 yards. Helu also had a fumble.
Running backs coach Tim Beck said it wasn't that Helu was hurt. It's just that Burkhead had the hot hand.
"He's been practicing really well. He's been eager," Beck said of the true freshman who just returned from a hairline fracture last week. "He's got fresh legs and he just kind of saw it. He was able to get to the holes a little quicker than Roy was. Roy has had three grueling weeks, 20-some carries a game. He did well, but I was happy with what Rex did so I stayed with him. He was crisper and shaper today."
more»Lee: Got twisted up a little
Zac Lee smiled when asked about his injury. "I'll be fine," the junior quarterback said.
Lee left the game mometarily early in the third quarter when he was tackled awkwardly on a broken option play. Cody Green came into the game for two plays. Lee had his ankle taped and returned to finish the game.
"I just got twisted up on," Lee said. "I had a few bodies laying on top of me and I went a different direction."
Lee praised the line and the running backs for the job they did on Nebraska's final scoring drive, which made it 28-14. The Huskers drove 80 yards and 65 of those were gained on the ground.
About Rex Burkhead, Lee said: "We always new the type of player Rex is. He gives us great versatility and gave us a chance to rest Roy and keep him fresh. Rex is a heckuva runner."
more»Postgame reaction
Huskers 28, Buffs 20.
That's your final after a 59-yard hail mary touchdown by Colorado on the last play.
Bo Pelini will take the win. But he was not real pleased with how the game went down.
"We didn't play well today," he said, and then repeated that several times in his postgame comments. "I'm happy we won the football game. Anytime you win on the road, that's great. But I don't like the way our football team played in any phase of the game."
Pelini made one correction to that. "We played well on special teams and that's about it," he said.
Pelini said focus wasn't the problem. Execution was.
"There's a lot more out there for us, for this football team to do together," Pelini said.
Pelini did give heavy praise to freshman running back Rex Burkhead, who took over the game on one fourth-quarter drive, rushing nine times for 55 yards on the possession that made it 28-14. He ended with an even 100 yards on 18 carries.
"I thought Rex Burkhead played outstanding football," Pelini said. "He ran hard. That's just who he is."
That'll get you started. More coming.
more»Chat live until 6:30 p.m.
What did you think of today's game. Click here to chat live.
Questions about the game? Ask here
Nebraska has scored on offense, defense and special teams to build a 21-7 halftime lead.
If you've seen something from Folsom Field (or see something in the second half) that has you going 'what's up with that?' fire away and we'll get some answers.
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Game thread: NU-CU
All right, the live chat is in the books. Thanks to everyone who participated.
Should be an interesting afternoon. Settle in and blog away!
more»Live chat from Folsom Field
Join Sipple and I for a live chat from the press box here at Folsom Field.
The chat is open. Start sending comments and questions. We'll be on there in about five minutes.
more»Boulder weather update
Here's the update: Wow.
It's ridiculously gorgeous. Just took an early morning stroll. Sunny and no wind. Temperature in 40s, and heading into 60s this afternoon.
The sun, the clean air, the Flatirons in the distance . . . I can see why people like living here.
But I prefer Lincoln.
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Gameday: Here comes Ralphie
Happy Black Friday. Hope the shopping clearances are good to those of you who care ... or if you live with someone who does.
As for the football, you know what day it is. Maybe some Alex Henery will help get you going.
Here's a blog for you to give some morning thoughts on the game that awaits and perhaps the game that transpired last night involving that team in burnt orange.
Also, please join Sipple and I for a live chat on HuskerExtra around 1 p.m. Nebraska time. We'll be fielding questions from Folsom Field.
Enjoy the day.
Game thread: Texas-Texas A&M
Happy Turkey Day. Sage, Babcock and I just ate a Thanksgiving buffet at a place called Dolan's near the CU campus. Excellent food. Excellent company. Gorgeous weather, 60s and sunny, which I'm told will be the case for Nebraska-Colorado. And now? I think we should scout Texas closely and get a feel for Big Red's chances in next week's Big 12 title game.
Tell us what you think.
more»It's official: Hawkins retained
This just in from The Boulder (Colo.) Daily Camera:
University of Colorado athletic director Mike Bohn confirmed Thursday morning that head football coach Dan Hawkins will continue to coach the Buffaloes and return for his fifth season in 2010.
With questions about Hawkins' future mounting due to CU's 3-8 record this season, Bohn wanted to end speculation and reiterate what he has maintained all along: that Hawkins is and will remain CU's coach.
CU-Boulder Chancellor Dr. Philip DiStefano and Bohn informed the team after Thursday morning's walkthrough practice of their coach's status to quell their concerns.
"Dan is our coach," said Bohn. "We continue to have candid, constructive discussions with each other, with campus leadership and with related constituents to review all aspects of the football program. We recognize the importance of continuity to reach our desired competitive results. We have made progress on many fronts, but fully realize the importance of improvement and growth of the program in all areas."
DiStefano agreed and confirmed he supports Bohn's decision.
"I want all CU fans, supporters, and members of the University community to know that I support Athletic Director Mike Bohn's decision to honor coach Hawkins' contract and believe this decision is in the best interests of the University of Colorado at Boulder," DiStefano said.
"Dan represents the university's values on and off the field, and his team has been competitive this year," DiStefano continued. "He has done all that we have asked him to do, and although we all desire more victories, we also recognize starting over with a new coach right now takes us away from, not closer to, our goals for CU football. Our immediate task is to support Dan and the team as they take on our rivals from Nebraska, then to have a great recruiting season, and ultimately to put a team on the field that will return CU football to greatness."
Bohn said for Hawkins to achieve success, it is vital for the CU community, fans and Buff supporters to rally around the coach, the players and the program.
"During this challenging time, it is essential for our collective fan base to stay with the program," Bohn said. "We all play a role in building the program on different levels. History has proven that our program is at its best we channel collective passion, competitiveness, and hard work in the same direction."
Hawkins' contract with CU runs through the 2012 season. He originally signed a five-year agreement when hired prior to the 2006 season, and received an extension in October 2008.
The Buffs close out the season Friday against Nebraska, with kickoff set for 1:30 p.m. at Folsom Field. The game is close to selling out, with just 700 tickets remaining at the close of business Wednesday.
Report: Hawkins to keep job
According to KOA 850, the home radio station of Colorado football, Dan Hawkins is going to keep his job as Buffs coach for at least another season.
University sources also told the Boulder Daily Camera that they expect CU athletic director Mike Bohn to tell the team today that Hawkins will be the coach in 2010.
So there you go. It looks like Hawkins will not be a lame duck tomorrow when the Buffs and Huskers tangle.
Thoughts?
Oh, and Happy Thanksgiving.
more»Prediction thread: NU at CU
We're expecting news about Dan Hawkins any time now. Will Colorado retain Hawk for a fifth season? Or let him go?
But that's not the prediction we're looking for.
It's Nebraska-Colorado.
I say Nebraska 24, Colorado 17, with the Buffs coming up short on a last-ditch drive.
Suh bolsters his Heisman case. And then we all turn our attention to Texas.
Turkey eve in the Little Apple
Nebraska's surging volleyball team will try to keep the magic going tonight in Manhattan, where there's a respectable crowd given the Wildcats' ugly slide.
Hawkins announcement Thursday
This just in from The Boulder (Colo.) Daily Camera:
LAHAINA, Hawaii -- Mike Bohn will leave here tonight having already decided the fate of football coach Dan Hawkins at Colorado.
CU's athletic director would not reveal his decision during an interview with the Camera following the men's basketball team's 73-58 victory over Chaminade in the EA Sports Maui Invitational at the Lahaina Civic Center.
Bohn said an official announcement about the football coaching situation will come Thursday.
"We'll head back on the red eye and will spend some time with coach Hawkins (Thursday)," Bohn said.
Hawkins has been under fire from fans and critics throughout a disappointing 3-8 season. With one game remaining -- Friday's season finale against Nebraska at Folsom Field -- in his fourth season at CU, Hawkins has a 16-32 record.
The Camera has confirmed that Hawkins did sit down face-to-face with CU chancellor Phil DiStefano this week and came away from the meeting with the understanding that he would be given a chance to coach the Buffs for a fifth season. A source also said Hawkins has spoken with CU president Bruce Benson.
CU spokesman Bronson Hilliard said today that no decision has been made.
If CU decided to fire Hawkins it would cost the school over $3 million.
more»Carl Pelini nominee for award
Turns out, Nebraska defensive coordinator /d-line coach Carl Pelini is one of 34 nominees for the Broyles Award, which goes to the nation's top assistant coach.
Former Husker assistant Kevin Steele, now at Clemson, also is a nominee.
The final five finalists will be announced Nov. 30 and the winner announced on Dec. 8 at the Broyles Award Luncheon presented by the Little Rock (Ark.) Rotary Club.
Oklahoma offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson was last year's recipient.
more»QB Lee keeping it simple
A couple of Zac Lee's teammates remarked this week that it appears the Nebraska quarterback is having more fun in this late stage of the season than he was earlier. Is that the case? "I just try to look at it in real simple terms," he said. "In the end, it's football. Whether or not you have a bunch of media people on your butt, or there's 86,000 people in the stands, it's still football. I just try to go about it like that and have fun with my teammates, playing ball." Did you put pressure on yourself earlier in the season? "I think that was just my competitive nature wanting to win badly, just overdoing things and trying to make plays maybe when they weren't there," he said. Freshman Cody Green replaced Lee as starter for the Oct. 31 game at Baylor and Nov. 7 home game against Oklahoma. But Lee played the entire game the last two weeks. Did Lee draw on any past experiences to help him stay positive on the sideline? "I just tried to learn from it," he said. "Just take in as much as I could and just keep supporting the guys and kind of just keep being me." Did being on the sideline help him see things differently? "I think it just made me realize once again how much I love playing football, and how much I want to be out there," he said.
Wednesday practice report
The Huskers practiced earlier in the day than usual Wednesday, an opportunity afforded to them given that it's Fall Break at the university.
"It was OK," Husker coach Bo Pelini said. "On a short week there was a lot to do, a lot to clean up. It was a good day, though."
"I feel good about what we've accomplished up to this point, but it just heightens the mental preparation that has to be done between now and game time," Pelini added.
The coach said players would be given the night off, and then have a walk-through Thursday morning with a team Thanksgiving dinner before boarding the plane for Colorado tomorrow.
*****
On the injury front, Pelini said right tackle Marcel Jones is OK. "He looked pretty good out there today."
Pelini said cornerback Alfonzo Dennard, who did not play against Kansas State because of a toe injury, is ready to go.
*****
On Tuesday quarterback Zac Lee mentioned how running the option was mostly a new experience to him. About that, Pelini said: "It's just a matter of getting the reps. He's starting to understand what to do, when to and when not to. I think he's done a good job with it. I think he'll continue to get better as we keep getting him more repetitions."
Lee hasn't pitched the ball very much on the option. "Part of it is it hasn't been there. When it's been there I think he's done a good job of pitching it. ... The problem is they've been stringing it out lately. That's when he's got to learn to tuck the football. But that just comes with experience."
*****
About blocking out talk of the Big 12 Championship, Pelini said: "It hasn't been an issue. I haven't heard one word or mention of the Big 12 Championship Game or the holidays or anything. I think our kids have had good focus. I think they're excited to play."
*****
Does Pelini put any stock into the Colorado altitude affecting things? "No."
more»Rivalry? Bo says yes
There may be some Nebraska fans out there who are slow to call Colorado a rivalry game. But Husker coach Bo Pelini considers it that.
What makes it a rivalry in his eyes?
“I get the feeling from the fans. I judge that from the fans," Pelini said. "I haven’t been a part of this program for a real long time, but I know this is a game special to our fans and I think it’s special to the Colorado fans. It's two states sitting side by side. It’s very special to our great fans out in Western Nebraska because they are right there in the Colorado zone and they want bragging rights. They make a lot of sacrifices in driving a long way every week to come see us play, and we have to have their back on this end when we play Colorado. That’s all part of the deal.”
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Suh ready for CU wrinkles
Lots of chatter this week about Colorado being a proverbial "trap game" for Nebraska. But Ndamukong Suh doesn't sound concerned about the Huskers having a letdown.
"It was up-tempo," Suh said of Tuesday's practice. "Getting our work done, as always. That's how we go about business here. That's what the leaders provide, and everybody else follows."
Although Colorado ranks 108th nationally in total offense, Suh said Nebraska must be alert and well prepared in part because the Buffaloes like to surprise teams with new wrinkles.
"They have different things they work on throughout the week for a certain team, so we expect something new at some point in time during the game," Suh said.
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Learning on the run
If Nebraska junior quarterback Zac Lee doesn't always look comfortable running option plays, it may be because he had little experience running them before this season.
"Just kind of learned on the run," he said. "Got some pointers from L.T. (LaTravis Washington) and Cody (Green)."
Washington, a junior, was a dual-threat quarterback at Bayshore High in Bradenton, Fla., while Green, a true freshman, was a runner and thrower in Dayton, Texas.
"LaTrav is really the option master around here, the guy under center who's done it a bunch," Lee said. "We're just adding things to make us more versatile as an offense.
"It's a learning experience," he added, referring to the option game. "It's a matter of getting more comfortable with it on a weekly basis."
* * *
Nebraska coaches and players are making a concentrated effort to put all of their focus on Colorado and none on the Dec. 5 Big 12 title game against Texas. Lee was asked if in his life away from football people ask him about the showdown against the Longhorns.
"Right now life away from here is a little non-existent," Lee said. "My roommates are football players. The guys I hang out with are football players. Nobody's really asking about Dallas; it's all about Colorado."
more»Tuesday practice report
Tuesday's practice is in the books. Some thoughts from Carl Pelini are below.
On CU quarterback Tyler Hansen: "He is similar (to K-State's Grant Gregory). He has a good arm and he’s real slippery. He can find his way out of pressure, and when he does he is always looking downfield. Again, you have to do a good job in coverage, but you still have to deal with him. That has kind of been the theme of the last few weeks. We’ve been facing quarterback after quarterback who can run and hurt you with their feet. You have to account for that all the time."
On CU's O-line: “One of the better lines we’ve seen. They are big and athletic too. They can move their feet really well. They get out on pull on plays and find people in space. It’s a good offensive line; they’ve come a long way.”
On the health of cornerback Alfonzo Dennard: "He had a good practice today. I noticed that today. I think he feels pretty good. He probably has some fresh legs with the week off he had."
Pelini said it was a toe injury that kept Dennard out of the K-State game.
On how Anthony West performed in place of Dennard: "Shoot, that's nice to have. You got a kid there who's started that many games. He's seen it all before. He played a good game."
On how long it seems since 2003 when Carl last visited Boulder as a grad assistant on the Husker staff: "A lifetime ago. A lot of gray hairs ago. But I remember it well."
On what stands out about playing in Boulder: "It was loud. You could tell they had a genuine dislike for us. So it's always a difficult environment to play in."
On any speculation about him and the opening for the head coaching job at Youngstown State: "I'm not even thinking about that right now. I'm just kind of worried about Colorado."
Huskers-'Roos
So, the team leader for UMKC .... do they call him Captain Kangaroo?
Sorry, couldn't resist.
The starting lineup for Nebraska: Jones, Jeter, Ubel, Anderson and Henry.
more»McCray done for season
I just ran into Toney McCray outside the Nebraska locker room, and he told me he's having surgery on his elbow next week.
That means McCray, a 6-foot-6 sophomore guard, will miss the rest of the season.
McCray didn't seem optimistic when I asked him about getting this year back -- he's played in Nebraska's first three games, and he's already redshirted.
We'll have more from Doc after tonight's game against UMKC.
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Coaching carousel update
Yes, the carousel's spinning. Youngstown State head coach Jon Heacock announced Sunday that he is stepping down from the position after leading the Penguins to a 60-44 record in nine seasons.
A national search is underway, and already Carl Pelini's name has surfaced in speculation along with fellow Youngstown native Mark Stoops, the 42-year-old defensive coordinator at Arizona.
Carl Pelini has said he would like to someday become a head coach. Don't be surprised if Youngstown State calls Nebraska to ask permission to interview the 44-year-old Pelini, the Huskers' defensive coordinator and d-line coach.
Heacock's tenure included a trip to the NCAA Division I-AA Football Championship Subdivision playoff semifinals in 2006.
more»Gone in 15 minutes
This just in from Nebraska officials:
It didn’t take long Tuesday morning for Nebraska football fans to snap up the last 1,000 of the Huskers’ nearly 12,000-ticket allotment for the Dr. Pepper Big 12 Championship Game. Donor requests accounted for nearly 11,000 of the 11,909 Nebraska allotment. It took Nebraska officials until 9:30 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 23 to process all the donor orders. The remainder went on sale at 8 a.m. this morning.
After assisting those online, those waiting in the lobby, and holding on the phone, sales were complete in less than 15 minutes. Assistant Athletic Director for Ticketing Holly Adam said Tuesday morning, “Demand was very high, and the tickets went quickly.”
Nebraska will not be receiving any additional tickets for this game.
Any remaining tickets for the Dec. 5 game must be purchased through all Ticketmaster outlets, by phone at (800) 745-3000, on-line at www.ticketmaster.com, or in person at the Cowboys Stadium ticket office. Tickets will not be sold through the Big 12 Conference office.
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Three keys versus Buffs
Three keys to Nebraska beating Colorado (3-8, 2-5 Big 12): 1. Be well-prepared for CU's multiple offense. Losing one day of preparation (because of the Friday game) is somewhat of a concern for Nebraska's defensive staff, because the Huskers will be in a game in which they'll have to adjust to several formations, motions and personnel groupings. "Preparation time is your friend when you're playing a team with great multiplicity like Colorado has," NU defensive coordinator Carl Pelini said. 2. In the absence of offensive consistency, Nebraska needs to be especially opportunity-oriented on offense. Specifically, take advantage of red-zone opportunities that may be created by special teams and defense (this obviously is an ongoing formula). NU has had 42 red-zone chances this season and scored 33 times -- 22 touchdowns and 11 field goals. Thirteen of the TDs were via the rush. 3. Stay focused on Colorado. It's obviously easier said than done. Nebraska needs to forget Texas. Forget the Big 12 title game. Bottom line, Nebraska must somehow retain the sense of urgency it's showed the last four weeks.
Monday practice report
The Huskers worked out on the grass on Monday afternoon, trying to pack all their preparation into a practice week with one less day than usual.
Offensive coordinator Shawn Watson liked how the team responded on the first day.
“We’ve prepared them and they know what we’re facing this week with one day less to prepare," Watson said. "So they came out and had a really good practice today. I was really pleased with that.”
"Up until the time we leave we're going to be putting a lot of stuff compressed into (the week)," he added. "Our schedule is totally different. We've kind of revamped it obviously to fit and get everything in. But we've got a lot of work to do in terms of getting stuff turned around fast."
*****
On the injury front, Marcel Jones was back on the practice field. The right tackle limped off the field on the third play of the game against K-State and was replaced by D.J. Jones.
At cornerback, Alfonzo Dennard practiced. The sophomore did not play against K-State, all the snaps going to Anthony West. Bo Pelini said after Saturday's game that Dennard could have played if necessary, but was banged up.
*****
I've heard this idea floated around by some that perhaps the Huskers could give more rest to Roy Helu and more snaps to Rex Burkhead against Colorado with the Big 12 title game in mind.
Well, as I suspected, running backs coach Tim Beck doesn't think much of that idea.
“We got to win this game,” Beck said. “This is the next game. Everybody’s all worried about that one (against Texas). We got this one.”
*****
Watson said he likes "the physicality" his offense has shown in recent weeks. "There's no secret to what we're trying to do and I think the kids have embraced that, and they're taking pride in the physical aspect of it," he said.
As for his vision of this offense in the future, Watson said: "It would be a team like we were last year. But we're going to have to grow into that at quarterback, to be honest with you. We're going to have to grow into that at receiver. That's going to take a process. That's going to take some time."
Nebraska has used more of a power game in recent weeks -- less spread, more heavy sets. "It enables us to win the football games," Watson said. "We've all had to diet our egos. We've all had to put the stats behind us. The most important stat we all care about is winning, and we've done what it's taken to win football games."
*****
Nebraska is 8-3. Colorado is 3-8. Senior safety Matt O'Hanlon knows the Buffs will still bring it on Friday.
"Nebraska-Colorado, records don't count at all," O'Hanlon said. "They're going to come ready to play. We're going to go there ready to play. Records really don't count at all."
O'Hanlon said the schedule is more condensed than usual this week, but it helps that Nebraska students have fall break from Wednesday-Friday.
About the importance of Friday's game, O'Hanlon said: "That was one the goals we set at the beginning of the year was to dominate the North and we haven't done that yet until we beat Colorado. So that's what we're focused on."
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Suh awards update
It's been a couple hours, so it's about time to update Suh's honors list.
This just in from Nebraska officials:
Nebraska senior defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh was named a finalist for two major national awards on Monday. Suh was selected as one of three finalists for both the Outland Trophy and the Bednarik Award. Both awards will be presented on Thursday, Dec. 10 at the Home Depot College Football Awards Show in Orlando, Fla. The show will be televised by ESPN.
The Outland Trophy is presented annually to the best interior lineman in college football. He is joined by Oklahoma State offensive tackle Russell Okung and Idaho offensive guard Mike Iupati as finalists. Nebraska has previously won eight Outland Trophies, most recently Aaron Taylor in 1997.
The Chuck Bednarik Award is presented annually by the Maxwell Football Club to the Outstanding Defensive Player of the Year. Suh is joined among the finalists by Alabama nose guard Terrence Cody and Florida linebacker Brandon Spikes.
Earlier on Monday, Suh was named the Lott Trophy IMPACT Defensive Player of the Week for the third time this season, becoming the first player in Lott Trophy history to earn the weekly award three times in one season. Finalists for the Lott Trophy will be announced later this week.
The 6-4, 300-pound Suh is also one of four finalists for the Rotary Lombardi Award and one of five finalists for the Bronko Nagurski Trophy. Suh leads Nebraska with 65 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, 20 quarterback hurries, 10 pass breakups and three blocked kicks, while adding 6.5 sacks.
Interesting Husker goal
Nebraska senior center Jacob Hickman didn't sound overly concerned Monday that the Huskers might look past Colorado toward the Dec. 5 Big 12 championship game against Texas.
"I mean, it's Colorado. We want to go after Colorado," he said. "You never want to go in and give up a win to a team that a lot of us, you know, are not big fans of, if you would.
"I don't think we'll have any problems getting guys to make sure they focus on the game coming up."
He said something else that was interesting to me regarding team goals.
"Another thing is one of our team goals was to dominate the Big 12 North -- not just win it," he said. "I think we'd be remiss if we didn't approach this game like any other game."
Hickman noted that Colorado considers Nebraska to be a "red-letter game" on the calendar.
"Regardless of their record, every year I've played them, it's always been a hard-fought game," Hickman said. "It's just kind of the way it goes. We know that. That's why we have to make sure we step up our game, too."
more»Hawkins upbeat despite turmoil
This just in from The Denver Post:
Colorado coach Dan Hawkins' fate will be determined after Friday's game against Nebraska, the season finale for his 3-8 Buffaloes.
If it's up to the embattled coach, he'd continue to be here to see the fruits that four years of struggles can bear.
"Well totally. Yeah," Hawkins said during his news conference this morning. "This thing is a labor of love, man. I think you come to make a difference, you come to change things, you come to improve and you never know how long the journey is going to be.
"Sometimes you want the Good Lord to make it shorter than it is, but whatever reason it's not. But you hang in there long enough it'll happen. You've just got to do things right."
Click here for rest of article.
more»Suh's latest honor
For the third time this season, Ndamukong Suh has been named the Lott Trophy IMPACT Player of the Week.
Suh had nine tackles, two for losses (including 1.5 sacks), two pass breakups and a
quarterback hurry in
"Not much more can be said about Ndamukong Suh after
the season he's had,” said former Arkansas Coach Frank Broyles, a member of the
Legends Coaches who selected the Player of the Week. "He is so dominant that
opponents have to double or triple team him to stop him, making him the most
valuable defensive player on
Series of head coaching turmoil
Head coaching turmoil has largely defined recent Nebraska-Colorado games in Boulder, Colo.
In 2003, Frank Solich was fired the day after Nebraska's 31-22 triumph.
In 2005, Gary Barnett was fired two weeks after Nebraska's 30-3 win.
In 2007, Bill Callahan was fired the day after Nebraska's 65-51 loss.
This season, many people believe Dan Hawkins is about to get the pink slip.
Maybe the trend will end in 2011.
more»Green still smiling
True freshman Cody Green hasn't played in the past two games. But the quarterback says what he cares most about is that the team is winning.
"Any time we get a W, it's a smile on my face," Green said Monday.
"(I've) just handled the last couple of weeks like normal, just preparing myself as if I was the starter, preparing myself to play. "If I do get the call, it's nothing new. It's just something that I've been doing."
Green obviously wants to play, but said he's not that surprised he hasn't played in the last two weeks given that Zac Lee started and given how those games then played out."Like I've said at the beginning, those close games I want to play, but I know still that I probably won't get to play," Green said. "It's just something that I've prepared myself for."
more»Henery, Asante players of the week
Alex Henery was named the Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Week for his kicking efforts against Kansas State.
And safety Larry Asante, who had a pick and caused a fumble at the Husker goal line, was the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week.
It's the third time Henery has received the award. He earned it earlier this year against Virginia Tech and last season after the Colorado game. Henery twice pinned the Wildcats inside their own 3 on Saturday night.
"It's like he's using a pitching wedge with golf balls out there," Zac Lee said of Henery's magical foot.
more»A sweet bonus
The win over Kansas State provided some extra coin to Husker coaches.
As his contract notes, Bo Pelini will receive a $150,000 bonus for earning a spot in the Big 12 title game. He'd win an additional $100,000 if the team were to win the Big 12 Championship.
The Husker assistants also gain some extra money. Per their contracts, each is to receive 1/24 of his base salary for winning the North. They would have also received such a bonus for tying for the North. Pelini would have received $50,000 in bonus money had NU tied for the North but not gone to the Big 12 title game (See last year).
Interesting how in this case a win over Kansas State was worth more than a win over Texas would be.
more»Pelini live at 11:30 a.m.
There's a schedule change this week because of the Friday game.
Bo Pelini's weekly media luncheon will be Monday instead of Tuesday. Watch Bo live at 11:30 a.m. by clicking right here.
On-demand video will follow.
more»Coaches move NU to No. 23
Nebraska moves up two spots to No. 23 in the USA Today coaches' Top 25, but remains outside the AP poll (the Huskers are the equivalent of No. 27).
more»A few final thoughts...
* I like that Nebraska generally sounds unimpressed with itself, Big 12 North crown and all.
* Husker senior safety Larry Asante finished with a team-leading 10 tackles, and I think you know which one was most important. What a big hit. What a crusher for K-State. Asante has come a long way since arriving at NU in the spring of 2007 as a juco linebacker making the transition to safety.
* OK, who's the better running back, Daniel Thomas (19 carries for 99 yards) or Roy Helu Jr. (26 carries for 95 yards)? I'll say this: Thomas is the best back Nebraska's faced this season, better than Ryan Williams of Virginia Tech (21 for 107 against the Huskers).
Thomas is a slasher. He reminds me of some Nebraska I-backs of Big Red's glory days.
* Nebraska produced four sacks and five QB hurries. Even so, Grant Gregory had a lot of time to throw on too many occasions. Or am I off-base here?
NU will need to step up the pass rush against Colt McCoy.
Oh yeah, and Tyler Hansen and/or Cody Hawkins.
* I think this is a good sign: Nebraska's triumph was its sixth straight in the month of November and improved the Huskers to 6-1 in November under Bo Pelini.
* Talk to ya in the morning.
more»Postgame: NU 17, KSU 3
Nebraska is going to the Big 12 Championship game for just the second time in the last 10 years.
Bo Pelini got a bath after the game. "Somebody sold me out," Pelini said of the water dousing. "I'm going to find out who it is, but I'll take it."
Pelini had a nice quote about his family after the win. His wife, Mary Pat, watched from a distance as he answered questions. "My family is everything to me," Pelini said. "They're excited. Believe me, I couldn't have success if it wasn't for my wife, my best friend, and the person who supports me, who allows me to do what I do. You have to be a prettty special woman to deal with me on a daily basis. My kids and my in-laws were here. I had a lot of friends here. It was a pretty special day for me."
About going for it on fourth-and-1 on their own 36 with a 17-3 lead, Pelini said players had a lot of confidence they'd get it and he believed them.
"We kind of went in there and said there's no way we're going to punt this ball," center Jacob Hickman said. "We're going to get this and go to Dallas right here."
Added Hickman: "Obviously this is a big one. Everything around the day being senior day and everything, it was a big one. It was fun to hoist that trophy."
Quarterback Zac Lee talked about how he bounced back from his second-quarter interception. "I tried to force the ball (with the interception)," Lee said. "I should have just thrown it down and took the field goal. Honestly, it's kind of out of sight, out of mind. As soon as it's over you just go on to the next thing."
more»Got questions about the game?
10-3 Huskers at halftime. First we've seen of Burkhead in five games, still some I-formation, and Lee was having a solid game before throwing the pick.
Anything else you wondering about? Fire away.
more»Game thread: K-State-Nebraska
Gorgeous night. Meaningful game. Let the blogs fly.
Nebraska can wrap up a chance to play in its fifth Big 12 title game.
I have a feeling K-State could make it difficult.
Let's have some fun.
Gameday: Pressure's on
Earlier this week, Ndamukong Suh was asked if tonight's game would decide if this Husker season is a success or a failure.
Suh said he didn't even want to think about losing. But let's face it: Most people are going to view this season on what happens tonight. Win the North and the realistic goal most set for this program before the season was met. Lose and it's tough explaining how the Huskers didn't win a bad North Division with this defense. So, yes, there's some pressure.
Husker coaches could also gain some bonus cash by winning the Big 12 North tonight. We'll detail the bonus specifics later.
Anyway, here's a blog to talk about tonight's game and any other games. We'll put up the the game thread in a few hours. Enjoy the day.
more»
Biz Buzz: More restaurant news
I saw a sign advertising a new restaurant coming to the strip
mall at 14th and Superior that has the Ace Hardware and CVS. It
will be called the Hog Pit BBQ and Pizza. It looks like it's going
in on t
Lincoln Life: Men and Pain
I'm not saying men can't tolerate pain the way women with their
childbearing hips can. At least not after Sunday. That's when I
took my husband to the emergency room.
Taking over for a legend
Assistant coach Nathan Moseley has been promoted to head coach
for the Omaha Westside girls soccer team. He replaces Don Gilpin,
who started the program and was state runner-up six times before
retiri
Homefront: Carrots and parsnips combine for an easy, seasonal soup
Trying to eat light before the Thanksgiving feast, I was on the prowl for a fresh and healthful soup.
Game Day Report (with roster update)
Face off
Hit the net: Even with being back to a full roster after a rash of injuries, Lincoln continues to struggle to score goals. Lincoln is averaging 2.29 goals per game, which ranks last in the 14-team United States Hockey League.
Omaha, the overall league leader in the standings, averages a league-best 4.29-goals per game.
"The one thing that is probably killing us is we're missing the net," McGroarty said. "We're trying to pick corners of the net. Brett Hull, Wayne Gretzky, those guys never picked corners. They didn't. They put it in an area -- top shelf, low blocker -- whatever it was. That's what we need to do a better job of.
Defense getting better: After once giving up seven and eight goals in back-to-back games, the Stars have allowed seven goals in the past four games combined, including a shutout against Green Bay.
Roster updates
Clement was at South Kent prep school in Connecticut and is getting lots of attention from college recruiters. The Stars hope Clement can add a spark to the power-play unit.
Defenseman Will Rayner and forward Andrew Ammon will come off the 45-day injured reserve next week, but neither will probably be ready to play again for at least a few weeks.
Tonight's game
Lincoln (6-12) vs. Youngstown (8-7-1), Youngstown, Ohio, 6:15 p.m.: After winning five straight, Youngstown has lost three of its past four games. The Phantoms didn't look like an expansion team when Lincoln bested Youngstown 7-6 in overtime in the first matchup of the season. You'll have to leave quickly, but anybody bald (or shaved) gets in for half-price for Friday's game.
more»
On the road again, lookin for some wins
Photo by Erin Duerr, Lincoln Journal Star 
The mood was still sour — the Lincoln Stars lost 3-2 to Indiana on Wednesday in front of 3,900 fans at the Ice Box — but the team remains optimistic it will slowly begin working itself out of last place in the United States Hockey League’s West Division.
Game 18: Indiana 3, Lincoln 2 (Stars drop to 6-12)
Photo by Erin Duerr, Lincoln Journal Star
Here ya go:
Forwards
Puskar-Mermis-Reid
Gerths-Peterson-Shine
McCarron-Lynch-Gibbons
George-Brockett-Tate
‘D’
Bruneteau-Hibbeler
Rush-West
Lauwers-Baumbick
Net
Green
Scratches: Rayner (IR), Ammon (IR), Hoshaw (healthy).
Check back for updates.
Game 16: Green Bay 3, Lincoln 2 (Stars drop to 5-11)
Friday night: Green Bay 3, Lincoln 2
What happened: Lincoln played better than they have lately but hurt its chances by giving up three straight goals in a three-minute stretch midway through the second period.
The Stars hurt their chances again in the third period by spending nearly half of the period on the penalty kill.
All the scoring came in the second period. Green Bay led 3-0 before Lincoln got back in the game with goals by Jon Puskar and Kyle Gibbons.
Up next: The Stars play Green Bay again Saturday night at 7:35.
more»Game Day Report: Stars head on road for two games
Worth noting: Although Lincoln is in last place in its division, the Stars are feeling better as they head out on the first of back-to-back long road trips.
Worth quoting: "A lot of things become contagious in life, and the worst one is losing," Stars coach Jimmy McGroarty said. "Then you start to doubt yourself. Our leadership did a pretty good job of staying positive through the losing streak. We said, ‘Guys, it's not a sprint, it's a marathon here,' and we know we have competed with the best teams in the league."
more»Welcome to the USHL, Dubuque, Iowa
There has been some chatter about this, but it's official now: Dubuque, Iowa is back in the USHL. For those planning your Stars' road trip already, it's about a six-hour drive.
Now, it will be interesting to see if a team leaves next year or they add one (or more) new teams. A lot of cities are being mentioned as being interested. I just hope the league doesn't get too big that the overall play drops, and you don't get as good of rivalries.
Here is the story:
“The USHL takes another giant step forward in welcoming the city of Dubuque and Northern Lights Hockey into our growing family,” said USHL Commissioner Skip Prince. “The League now returns to a city which USHL fans remember fondly – but with a new and better League, the best young hockey players in the U.S. and the world, and a truly extraordinary ownership group. Most importantly, it comes home to a new Dubuque, which has become an emerging gem in the American landscape.”
The owners of Northern Lights Hockey collectively provide an extensive background in both business and hockey, and represent interests on a national and local level. Philip Falcone, Chief Investment Officer of Harbinger Capital Partners, is the company’s principal owner. A Harvard University graduate, Falcone has more than two decades of experience in leveraged finance, distressed debt, and special situations. In addition to overseeing all investment and business functions of Harbinger Capital Partners, Falcone is part owner of the NHL’s Minnesota Wild.
Northern Lights Hockey also includes local Iowan partners Mark Falb and David S. Field, M.D. Falb currently serves as Chairman of the Board and CEO of Westmark Enterprises, Inc. and Kendall/Hunt Publishing Company. The University of Iowa graduate also serves on the boards of multiple businesses in the Dubuque area. Dr. Field has practiced orthopaedic surgery for 30 years and has been a driving force behind hockey in Dubuque. He currently owns the Dubuque Thunderbirds which competes in the Central States Hockey League.
“We are extremely happy to be awarded a membership in the USHL and to have this organization represent the city of Dubuque,” stated Brad Kwong, Managing Director of Northern Lights Hockey. “Our group recognizes the quality of the Dubuque market and through our significant investment we are committed to bringing a first class hockey operation to this community.”
Today’s announcement marks the USHL’s return to Dubuque which originally competed in the League for 21 seasons (1980-2001) as the Dubuque Fighting Saints. The club won the Clark Cup as playoff champions on three occasions (1981, 1983, 1985) under head coach Jack Barzee, who is now in his 21st year with NHL Central Scouting. The Fighting Saints produced many players that moved to NCAA Division I hockey and even the NHL, including 17-year veteran NHL defenseman Gary Suter.
“Bringing a USHL team back to Dubuque not only enhances an already vibrant community, but furthers the tourism efforts of the region,” Falb said. “And it provides yet another exciting event destination for local fans and visitors to Dubuque.”
The new Dubuque team will play their home games at the Mystique Ice Center, a brand new 3,200-seat multi-purpose ice arena which broke ground on November 2nd. The arena is owned by the City of Dubuque but operated by Dubuque Community Ice and Recreations Center, Inc. (DICE).
Northern Lights Hockey, LLC will have further announcements about the new USHL Member Club in the coming weeks. Fans have the opportunity to vote for the new team’s name and colors before its unveiling early next year at www.dubuqueushl.com.
more»
Stars drop to last in the West
When Sioux City beat Sioux Falls 4-3 in a shootout on Tuesday night, the Lincoln Stars fell to last place in the USHL West Division. Remember, only four of the seven teams in the division will make the playoffs when the regular season ends in 45 games.
Now for some good news: The Stars went 2-for-6 on the power play in a 4-1 win against Waterloo last week. Kyle Gibbons and new-guy Alec Rush scored the power-play goals.
“Our power play was a lot better,” Stars coach Jimmy McGroarty said. “We looked organized, a bit, and our breakout inside the zone was good and created opportunities. It was a good adjustment.”
Having some key players back should help a power-play unit that has been bad. Lincoln ranks 13th of the 14 teams on the power play. The Stars have 12 power-play goals in 85 attempts (14 percent).
By comparison, Fargo with coach Steve Johnson leads the league on the power play with 23 goals in 88 attempts (26 percent).
Those power-play goals will be in close games as the season goes along.
more»
Another Star in the Show
Irmen played two seasons for the Lincoln Stars (2001-03) recording 108 points (38g, 70a) over 106 regular season games. The winger was selected to play in the USHL All-Star Game during the 2002-03 season and was named to the All-USHL Second Team that year.
more»
To the tape
All three goals came in an 11-minute stretch of the third period.
It was the 55th hat trick in Stars history, and he’s the 35th different Stars player to get a hat trick. It was the third hat trick in the USHL this season.
Reid leads the Stars in goals with six in 12 games.
You can check out video of all three goals here.
A note from Jimmy
I'd just like to say thank you to all the Stars fans and people from Lincoln, particularly Rod and Connie Schwindt, for supporting me and our team. The players, coaches, staff, and fans in Lincoln have been unbelievable. I had the time of my life while here. Coach McGroarty and his staff are great coaches and truly dedicated to this team and have always done what is best for the Stars. Trades are a part of hockey, my trade being no different. I was upset about leaving Lincoln, but the people and players at Waterloo have also made me feel welcomed. I wish best of luck to all the players and coaches in Lincoln and thanks such a great experience!
-Jimmy Siers
more»
Stars' Reid gets key award
Reid registered five points (4g, 1a) and a plus-four rating as the Lincoln Stars earned a split of two games during the weekend. The 20-year-old forward recorded a hat trick scoring three goals in a span of 11:15 in the third period of Friday’s 8-4 loss to Des Moines. On Saturday, the native of Delta, British Columbia scored the first goal of the game and dished out an assist in the 4-1 win over Waterloo. All four goals scored by Reid were even-strength tallies. He is playing in his first USHL season and currently leads the Stars with six goals.
Sustr recorded two points (2a) and a plus-five rating as the Youngstown Phantoms won two of three contests during the week. The 6-6, 195-pound defenseman assisted on the game-winning goal in Wednesday’s 3-2 victory vs. Green Bay. He then collected an assist in Friday’s 4-3 loss to Green Bay extending his point streak to three games. In Saturday’s 7-6 win over Chicago, the native of Plzen, Czech Republic registered a plus-two rating, his fourth straight game with an even-or-better plus/minus. Sustr, 18, is playing in his first USHL season and currently ranks tied for second among all League defenseman with nine assists.
Grosenick posted two victories, a 1.44 goals-against-average, and a .953 save percentage for the RoughRiders. On Friday, the 20-year-old netminder made 30 saves and stopped four shooters in a seven-round shootout to earn the 4-3 victory for Cedar Rapids. He then turned away all 31 shots by Tri-City in Saturday’s 4-0 shutout victory. It was the second shutout of the season for Grosenick and the seventh victory, which ranks tied for second among USHL goaltenders. It is the second weekly honor for the native of Brookfield, Wisconsin who earned the award following the second week of the 2009-10 season.
Stars win, Stars win, Stars win
Break out the party hats, folks, the Lincoln Stars notched another one for the win column.
It's hardly cause for a major celebration, but when you haven't won in 20 days you let out a big cheer or, in this case, at least an exhale.
The Stars lost five straight before a 4-1 win over Waterloo on Saturday. Another loss would have matched the longest streak in the team's 14-year history.Lincoln (5-10) still sits in sixth place in the United States Hockey League's West Division, but it would have been last in the division with a loss.
Playing with a full lineup of 18 skaters for the first time in a month due to injuries, Lincoln made plays in all zones and bounced back from a 7-0 loss against Waterloo last week. more»Game 15: Lincoln 4, Waterloo 1 (Stars improve to 5-10)
Lincoln will try to break out of a long slump against a Waterloo team that rolled the Stars 7-0 last week.
Waterloo has goalie Steve Racine and Jimmy Siers in the lineup, a couple of the guys they got from Lincoln last week.
Lincoln has 18 skaters for the first time in a long time.
Forwards
Lynch-Brockett-Reid
Puskar-Mermis-Gerths
Hoshaw-McCarron-Shine
Gibbons-Peterson-Tate
‘D’
Bruneteau-Hibbeler
Rush-Baumbick
Lauwers-West
Net
Coreau
Scratches: Rayner (IR), Ammon (IR), Weissenhoffer (healthy).
Check back for updates.
New guy
Rush played six games for Sioux Falls this year and 46 for Tri-City last season. Rush is another that has committed to play college hockey at Princeton (Brockett, Sdao, Meland, Kramer). He’s 18 and from Eden Prairie, Minn.
Sioux Falls had released Rush, so Lincoln didn’t lose anything to get him. Sioux Falls may have added Rush back to the roster, but Lincoln got him instead.
The Stars released Patrick George to make room for Rush. George will stick around town for now, and may be added back to the roster if a spot opens up. You have to wait 10 days to add a player back to your roster after letting him go.
You have to image the Stars are still looking to add another good defensemen.
The Stars will get Peterson and Gibbons back tonight from league suspensions, and should be full strength for the first time in a LONG time.
Matter of Opinion: Amazing coma story will re-ignite right-to-die debate
For 23 years a Belgian man was diagnosed as being in a vegetative state, but he was simply paralyzed.
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