Offense Should Take Any Advantage Against Washington
Last Saturday, the Huskers lost a few statistical categories that usually end up costing a team the game. Nebraska did not win 1st downs, total yards, 3rd downs, turnovers, and time of possession. But by winning yards per play, penalties, and red zone scoring, it is clear that offensive efficiency and the big play could mean the difference in the game against Washington.
One of Tim Beck's concerns for the offense this week is working on keeping better control against the Huskies. But he still values the big play abilities of his players. After practice on Tuesday, Beck said of the lack of sustained drives, "It's like asking a guy if he's tired of hitting home runs".
Based on the results of the Huskies first two games, Nebraska may have to "settle" for a couple of home runs. It can be expected that Washington will be preparing to load the box or game plan a contain to stop Taylor Martinez and others in the backfield from breaking out big yards on the ground. So far, they have stacked up a couple of wins, but have struggled stopping opponents from piling up yards and stopping third down conversions.
As for some of the miscues, Beck seems less concerned than some with the ball security, arm mechanics of Martinez, and drops from Brandon Kinnie at this point. If Beck can focus the players this week on maintaining drives, wearing down the defenses the Huskers face, and getting the aggressive push needed from the offensive line, then another game like the previous September's match up against Washington is possible.
Kansas City, MO
9/14/2011
I’m really hoping to see the Huskers take advantage of some passing mismatches as well. The Huskies are last in passing defense with 70 completions allowed.
9/14/2011
i think we should spread em out 4-5 wide and use screens/draw/shovel option plays to lose em up. we cant run our normal offense bc teams arent playing around with tmart anymore they re gonna put 7-8 guys in the box and take their chances.
spread em out and test the corners, do some run-pass options on the rollout and get the speed backs involved.
9/14/2011
I have a good feeling about this weekend. I was there for the home-opener and everyone was weary about the offense. Last week, the defense didn’t show up. I think both are going to prove to be wakeup calls. Live and learn. Go Big Red!
9/14/2011
UW fan here. Looking for a good game this week. Our Defense is pretty stout against the run, but the Linebackers are young and we haven’t been able to stop the possession type passing attack very well. I’d say our defensive line is very good and the defensive backs vary in quality from superb to young and mistake prone. The offense is dynamite…don’t underestimate them. Price is a better QB than Locker (more accurate and a better game manager) and we are deep and fast at the skill positions. The O-line is young but very experienced and talented. We are young and playing away at a storied program….you guys probably take it but it won’t be easy. Be hilarious if we both ended up in the Rosebowl…little chance of that happening though. Take it easy.
9/14/2011
There are two different kinds of home run hitters. Those who hit lots of homers and strike out a lot when they don’t and those who drive the ball consistently and often the ball goes over the fence. Unfortunately the Huskers have been the former type this year. They either can’t move the ball at all or spring a big play. That does not bode well even if the defense is playing great. The Blackshirts are not.
9/14/2011
Last week I called for a 45-14 win over FSU, instead our vaunted “D” gave up 169 yards rushing to one player, no turnovers/sacks, and not one single play for minus yards, I almost thought callahan was coaching there for a moment-YIKES! Now, back to reality and hopefully, Pellini pulled his, his coaching staff and the whole teams collective head out and they got down to basics. Most likely we will give up at least 21 points this weekend, but we should be able to hang at least 45 on the Huskies. If we don’t manage at least a 45-21 win, we are in Big, Big Trouble come Whisky Weekend. I will take a win no matter what, but we need to show up on both sides of the ball this weekend, with only Wyoming left to tune up before B1G TEN Play. GO BIG RED!!!!
9/15/2011
I was reading through the Neb blogs as a UW fan to see what you guys were thinking and I have to say you are missing big points when it comes to analyzing the UW D. In back to back weeks we have played quick strike spread offenses with vet QB’s that are accurate and poised. That’s going to make any pass D’s numbers look bad especially when said D is built to stop the run and missing their starting CB (vs. EWU) and having to start a freshman in Ducre. They also don’t give up the home run. They gave up a lot of yards underneath by design. They keep the play in front of them playing a soft zone. Its not the most fun defense for the UW fans to watch but with Parker back there starting his first few games its hard to go to a press D. If Martinez can show some accuracy throwing the ball underneath it will be a long day for UW. If they are thinking the deep ball will be there Desmond Trufant will have a big day. The real concern for the UW D is will the young LB’s be disciplined enough to keep contain on the option. If they are its going to be a long day for you guys. If not it’s going to be another long day for the Huskies like last Sept. Also missed is that UW’s D have been very opportunistic. They will force turnovers. Should be a good game and probably more of a defensive struggle that most people are predicting. Good luck to all the Husker fans out there, I am sure all the Huskies fans are going to miss dealing with such a classy, smart fan base every couple months. I know I will. Thanks for all the enjoyable, insightful analysis and good luck on the season.