By Erin Sorensen
Nebraska and Washington will face each other for the third time in a calendar year this afternoon. A year ago, this matchup didn’t appear to be much of a challenge for the Huskers. Nebraska dominated Washington on the Huskies’ home turf, leaving one quarterback’s Heisman contention crushed while polishing another’s. Things have certainly changed.
The Cornhuskers headed to the 2010 Holiday Bowl for a second consecutive year to face Washington yet again. This time, the Huskies reminded Nebraska that they aren’t a pushover by shutting down the Huskers 19-7. It was a heartbreaking loss for Nebraska fans, many of whom believed the game was a sure victory. Washington’s appearance in Lincoln brings an opportunity for redemption. Cornhusker fans should be on the lookout for the following:
1.) A Convincing Win
The 2011 season is still young, but Nebraska hasn’t produced a convincing win. Both fans and the team have been disappointed in performances thus far, and this afternoon provides a prime opportunity to rectify that. Nebraska fans won’t necessarily be looking for a blowout, but a strong win will be necessary to settle the grumbling.
With Memorial Stadium having been rather quiet and the team playing below expectations, both wins of the Huskers’ season have felt odd. The lack of a big win affects the atmosphere and fans are ready to celebrate in grand style. The team has plenty of pressure on them to ensure that the rubber match against Washington isn’t just a win, but one that justifies a top ten ranking.
2.) Blackshirt Dominance
Fresno State was a stern test for Nebraska. The talented defensive line was weakened by new schemes. At times, it almost appeared as if the defense was unaware a game was being played. It was a disappointing outing for fans, players and even the Cornhuskers’ coaches.
"We didn't play well, and anything else is an excuse, plain and simple. It had a lot to do with us, and that will get fixed, because we know how to fix that. We didn't play near to the standard of what we've established around here," defensive coordinator Carl Pelini said.
This afternoon will be an even bigger test for Nebraska. Washington is not about to let the Huskers improve their record easily. Fans will be anxious to see if Alfonzo Dennard finally makes his return. No matter what, everyone in attendance will be curious to see if Fresno State was a blip on the radar or a glimpse of things to come.
3.) The Offensive Line
The offensive line’s seat grows hotter with each passing week. While the linemen did show some growth against Fresno State, they still have a lot of work to do. When teams like Washington comes to town, the line has to find its mojo early to succeed.
The line made small steps in the right direction against the Bulldogs last week which provides hope for the future. They successfully gave quarterback Taylor Martinez a pocket to throw from. If the offensive line can continue to make small strides, the fans will get what they’ve wanted to see out of the big men up front.
4.) Brandon Kinnie
Senior wide receiver Brandon Kinnie is in a slump. Several opportunities over the first two games have simply not gone his way. For the veteran receiver, it’s been a test of patience. In 2010, Kinnie had 44 receptions for 494 yards and five touchdowns, proving that talent is there.
"I'm struggling. It's just a little adversity right now. It's mental,” Kinnie said.
Fans will be looking for Kinnie to make his mark today. Support has poured out over his Twitter feed as he deals with this funk. Fans are anxious for the senior receiver to succeed and they’re ready to see him live up to everything they know he is capable of.
5.) Offensive Drives
While the offense has managed to make some progress, sustaining drives is still an issue. Whether it’s because of fumbles or poor decision-making, Nebraska has had far too many drives fall short. Three-and-outs have become common and fans are fed up. Seven of Nebraska’s 14 offensive drives against Fresno State ended as three and outs. 12 of the same 14 drives took three minutes or less and required less than seven plays.
The numbers are startling, but Nebraska has the opportunity to correct the issue against the Huskies. Proper ball-handling is being stressed more than ever, along with more I-back involvement. Fans will be looking to see more of Rex Burkhead on longer offensive drives. The offense simply has to find ways to keep the defense off the field.
Nebraska has a lot to examine with Washington in town. It won’t be the easiest match up, but if the Cornhuskers can play to their potential, the final score should be one that fans feel good about.
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