Hopes And Fears: Nebraska

Eerily similar to Camp Randall

Tough week and a tough loss!

But it is now time to focus on our next opponent, the Big Ten newcomer, Nebraska. Nebraska didn't have a great showing against Wisconsin in their conference opener, but I chalk that up to a big stage, a big time crowd and 3 INT by their quarterback, Taylor Martinez. The Nebraska defense didn't show up as well as I thought it would either.

The big fear of mine leading into this week is that Ohio State will not take a step forward with the returning members of the team, but allow them and the lack of their presence so far, to slow us down. It so far hasn't been a consistent season and I hate to say it, but we've missed Terrelle Pryor. The rust these players bring to the table will add to a machine already needing oil.

Playing Nebraska at home will be interesting. Not because of the stadium size, but because of a new fan base, a fan base also coming off a loss but one that is just as passionate about their team, as we are about ours. There will be a lot of red in the stands on Saturday in Lincoln!

My hope is, we come out and play a good game. We may not win, but I hope we are not flat footed or distracted. Lacking intensity is something I thought I wouldn't say about a Luke Fickell led football team but that so far has been the case. To beat Nebraska, we will have to break that trend.

Hopes-

- The suspended players Mike Adams, and Soloman Thomas (out, due to injury) come back with a chip on their shoulders and something to prove. We need the spark they may bring to the rest of the team.

- Luke realizes that single play calling by Bollman isn't working and makes the choice to go to play calling by committee.

- We play a good, smart game, regardless of the outcome.

Fears-

- Nebraska feels embarrassed by their performance in Wisconsin and decides to take it out on us. They will also probably be wanting to make a statement against Coach Pelini's old team.

- The atmosphere in Lincoln isn't what I've heard as hostile, but it is still new to our players and I hope they realize they are there to play a game and not to sight see.

- We come in off of a loss, and are too emotional, letting things get out of hand.

- Not getting pressure on Taylor Martinez. Wisconsin showed that it can be done and it works wonders when it does happen.

- The suspended players are not able to come back on time and we are missing our three top WR's because of suspension or injury.