Nebraska is 1-0 after grinding out a second-half win over Ohio. Now it’s Bowling Green’s turn in Lincoln this Saturday.
Here are the three things I’ll be watching most closely.
1. Special Teams
This unit needs a big step forward.
Against Ohio, Archie Wilson only averaged 40 yards on his three punts (long of 41) and nearly had one blocked. There were two offsides penalties on kickoffs — almost unheard of. And we fielded a kick around the 20 and ended up taking it back 10-plus yards the wrong way.
That has to improve dramatically. Mike Ekeler left for USC during the offseason, and Brett Maher is now running the show. Can the new special teams group clean this up quickly, or will the early-season issues linger?
2. Defense
The defense started rocky against Ohio and then settled in. All told, they only got two sacks on the day and struggled at times to contain the quarterback runs.
Bowling Green is lesser opposition (no disrespect intended). Can the Blackshirts generate more pressure this week and get to three-plus sacks? I’d like to see them force some negative plays and look more coordinated in the new scheme under Rob Aurich.
3. Explosive Pass Plays
Anthony Colandrea has an arm and is not afraid to take shots. He finished 18-of-32 (56.3%) for 275 yards and three touchdowns against Ohio.
I’d like to see that completion percentage climb a bit, and I’d love to see a true home-run ball hit to one of the quick receivers. Stretch the field, create some explosive plays, and keep defenses honest.
Bonus
Can we rush for 200-plus yards again? The running back room looked legit last week with Jamal Rule and Mekhi Nelson combining for big numbers, but they have to prove it week to week.
Score Prediction: Huskers 63 – Bowling Green 13
Get cleaner on special teams, get after the quarterback a little more, and keep the offense rolling. Do those things, and this should be a solid day in Lincoln. GBR.
