OSG College Football Preview: Big Ten Conference

Congratulations fair reader, it’s time to see what we think about the Big 10 which is actually 12. Always a tough conference with good teams, they are perennially overrated. They traditionally struggle against good, out of conference competition.

That being said, there is talent galore here and if you play them in non-conference game, good luck.

2011 Big 10 Previews (In alphabetical “Conference” order):

Illinois Fighting Illini: 7-6 in 2010

The fighting Zooker’s had a pretty good 2010 and have a lot of those players returning this year. The law of averages says they’ll be somewhere in the middle this season.

Offense: It all starts with QB Nathan Scheelhaase, one of the conferences best. Yeah, they did lose Mikel Leshoure and that will hurt. Scheelhasse will have to account for a lot this season.

Defense: No stars, but 9 returning starters. And in College Football, that’s not such a bad thing.

Outlook: A fairly easy schedule will help as will 8 home games. Ron Zook’s teams tend to under achieve and we wonder if this team will do the same thing.

Predictions:

Phil says: They’ll be decent. Schedule all but guarantees them 6 wins. 7-5 will be a success for these guys. 6-6 is more realistic.

Jon says: Agreed… and that’s after a 3-1 start…

Wilkie says: I think new offensive coordinator Paul Petrino will have a tremendous effect on the Illini offense. With division rivals Ohio State and Wisconsin coming to Champaign Illinois may be the dark horse in the Leaders Division.

Indiana Hoosiers: 5-7 in 2010:

If there was a “Schleprock” team in each conference, this would be the team in the 10. They always struggle, though appeared to have started to turn the corner in 2010. We’ll see if they can maintain it.

Offense: It starts with wide receiver Demarlo Belcher. 78 catches last season ain’t bad, the question is can QB Dusty Kiel get the ball to him and that’s one that won’t be answered until they play for real.

Defense: This is where they struggle to compete. The offense is pretty good, defense...not so much. DT Adam Replogle will be leaned on heavily along with LB Jeff Thomas.

Outlook: This program is heading in the right direction. Kevin Wilson does have his work cut out, but it seems as though they are turning the corner. Virginia is the toughest non-conference game...and is easily winnable.

Predictions:

Phil says: Consistency is the key here. They need to continue making strides. They should. 6-6 is not out of the question.

Jon says: I think Wilson will have his work cut out for him… maybe 4-8…

Wilkie says: It won’t translate into wins this year but Kevin Wilson is stirring the pot in Bloomington. Six wins is about the max.

Ohio State Buckeyes: 11-1 in 2010:

It wasn’t the most pleasant off-season for these guys. We’ve talked at length about their off the field problems this summer. And yes, it will affect them, we just don’t know how much.

Offense: Terrelle Pryor will be tough to replace if for no other reason than he was the only QB with experience. But as always, there is plenty of talent here. Without Dan Herron and DeVier Posey, they’ll struggle early in the year. Someone is going to have to step up--Braxton Miller maybe?

Defense: If Johnathan Hankins steps up, they’ll be really good here...again. They lost a few players, but as always there are plenty of guys to step up.

Outlook: An awful lot of variables here with a new coach and key players out for 5 games. But these guys tend to play cupcakes early and that will help. The season really will hinge on who steps up and fills the void and right now nobody knows for sure who that will be.

Predictions:

Phil says: This will be a tough season in Columbus. They’ll recover, no matter what the NCAA says or does, but you can write this year off. 9-3.

Jon says: After winning the Ohio State title with wins over Akron and Toledo, I’ve got them at, maybe, 8-4… a rookie QB and not knowing how the rest of the “Tattoo 6” will respond will be the big difference…

Wilkie says: In September they won’t resemble the Ohio State we know. I doubt they beat Miami or Michigan State. Starting with Nebraska October 8th the Buckeyes will be in tact and I wouldn’t be surprised if TOSU rattles off seven straight wins.

Penn State Nittany Lions: 7-6 in 2010

2010 was a year to forget for the Nittany Lions, the expectations were higher. But they’ve been here before and recovered. And there’s some talent here.

Offense: Derrick Moye is the prototypical WR. NFL Scouts are already drooling over him. Someone needs to grab hold of the QB job, but nobody knows if that will happen. There’s not much else that stands out here.

Defense: If they are going to be successful, the “D” will lead the way. LB Michael Mauti and CB D’Anton Lynn are the best of a really good defense. And DT Devon Still ain’t bad. But will they wear out because of the offensive struggles?

Outlook: The “D” is one of the country’s best, the “O” one of the worst. Until the balance emerges, they’ll struggle. Finishing Nebraska, at Ohio State and at Wisconsin won’t do much for morale either.

Predictions:

Phil says: Having Alabama in the non-conference schedule ain’t going to help things. This year will be a bit of a struggle. 7-5 again sounds good.

Jon says: I’ve got them 8-1 heading into November, maybe 9-3…

Wilkie says: Joe Pa is energized, the Nittany Lions are better but the November schedule is a killer. 7-5 in Happy Valley.

Purdue Boilermakers: 4-8 in 2010

Another team seemingly on the rise. They’ve been stuck at the bottom of this conference for years. There is some talent here and we think Danny Hope is a good coach.

Offense: Ralph Bolden is a pretty good RB and Robert Marve has shown flashes of being a good QB, but can he sustain it and hold off Rob Henry?

Defense: They are stacked on D this year with Kawann Short and Bruce Gaston anchoring the line. Oddly, this may be the strong suit of this team in 2011.

Outlook: They should be better. The schedule isn’t too daunting. And they aren’t a bad team. A few guys will need to step it up for that to happen.

Predictions:

Phil says: An easy schedule helps. A bowl game is a real possibility. 7-5

Jon says: I don’t see it going 7-5… I’m still thinking 4-8’ish…

Wilkie says: The Boilers go bowling in December. 7-5 is possible.

Wisconsin Badgers: 11-2 in 2010

They are everyone’s offseason darlings it seems. And they are always good. But they always lose a game they shouldn’t. Always. Let’s see how well Russell Wilson fits in.

Offense: It will start with Wilson and WR Nick Toon. With RB’s James White and Montee Ball around they should be able to run well too. There are some holes on the line.

Defense: Chris Borland will be the man this year. He has to. DT’s Patrick Butrym and Jordan Kohout will certainly help.

Outlook: Yes, they will be good. They should be the class of this conference. But they always seem to choke in the end. Is this they year they get past it? Because they are certainly loaded at almost every position.

Predictions:

Phil says: Unless they implode, this is the best team in the conference. The schedule is conducive to running the table, but they’ll gag somewhere 11-1 and BCS Bowl

Jon says: That’s what I’m looking at as well… somewhere in the 10 or 11 win season-range and playing South Carolina in the Citrus Bowl…

Wilkie says: Getting quarterback Russell Wilson as an unrestricted free agent was the game changer the Badgers needed. This is your Big 10 champion.

And we move on to the poorly named Legends division--

Iowa Hawkeyes: 8-5 in 2010

This also was a rough offseason for Iowa with the 13 players being hospitalized and suspensions galore. They are the prototype for Big 10 football, good in conference, not so much out of it.

Offense: When your best player is a Tackle, you’ve got some things to worry about. Somebody has to play QB with James Vandenburg your leader in the clubhouse, and having Marcus Coker in the backfield will help.

Defense: They’ll be stout. Shaun Prater is NFL ready now and his counterpart Micah Hyde is pretty good too. The line will put some pressure on people.

Outlook: Iowa is traditionally good, but rarely great. This season won’t change that perception. There are too many question marks for them to excel, but they’ll be about where they were last year, with hopefully less headaches.

Predictions:

Phil says: If everyone plays to their max, 8-4, but 7-5 is more realistic.

Jon says: I’ve got the same thing… somewhere in the 7-5 range…

Wilkie says: Iowa thrives at being the under the radar team and the Hawkeyes are in that position this season. Will Iowa take advantage again?

Michigan Wolverines: 7-6 in 2010

They hired the right guy this time: Brady Hoke. And yes, they improved last year. But they still haven’t reminded anyone of the Michigan of old. With some discipline and defense, they could be what the rest of Big 10 should be playing like.

Offense: Denard Robinson. Do we need to say more? Robinson, the QB, was a dynamic play-making machine last year. He did wear down towards the end though. He needs to get bigger. Having WR Roy Roundtree back certainly will help.

Defense: This is the problem. They were awful the past two seasons. DT Mike Martin is the best player, but there is little around him. We’ll see if that happens.

Outlook: On the rise. If the Defense improves, the team will be better. Rich Rod, for all his faults, got some talent to come to Ann Arbor.

Predictions:

Phil says: They are heading in the right direction. They aren’t there yet. 8-4.

Jon says: I’ve got somewhere in the 6-6 range. I think they’re a year away…

Wilkie says: Brady Hoke mission isn’t to change the culture at Michigan but to be a part of it. The Wolverines won’t be all the way back this year but getting closer. Michigan won’t be home for the Holidays either.

Michigan State Spartans: 11-2 in 2010

Another team that is always competitive in the conference but struggles out of it. And they seem to always find ways to lose games they shouldn’t. But they’ve got some key guys coming back this season and a pretty friendly schedule.

Offense: It all starts with QB Kirk Cousins. Cousins is arguably the best QB in the conference and the leader of this team. WR B.J Cunningham and TE Brian Linthicum are back too. 3 new starters on the line could be an issue.

Defense: Safety Trenton Robinson is probably the best player on the D, and there will be 5 new starters this season. Someone is going to have to step up and lead up front, the question is who.

Outlook: Depends on the defense. They should be a tough out because of Cousins, but there are a lot of question marks. Again, a cake schedule will help...a lot.

Predictions:

Phil says: They’ll struggle this year. They lost a lot of starters. Best guess is 7-5.

Jon says: Six wins, maybe 7…

Wilkie says: If the youngsters come through then Michigan State is a title contender. The Spartans have nine wins in them.


Minnesota Golden Gophers: 3-9 in 2010

There is a new sheriff in town, Jerry Kill and he’s got his work cut out for him. They lost a lot of experience off a really bad team. This is a long term project for Kill or anyone else.

Offense: The top 3 receivers return, but who is going to throw it to them? Duane Bennett is a solid RB, but there are holes almost everywhere.

Defense: There is a little more here to work with. Leading tackler LB Gary Tinsley returns and LB Keanon Cooper is pretty good too. But again, nothing else stands out.

Outlook: Well, they are going to not be very good for awhile. There are some winnable non-conference games, but they won’t be favored in any Big 10/12 game.

Predictions:

Phil says: Jerry Kill may regret taking this job. He’s got a lot of work here. 3-9

Jon says: Bad, badder, baddest… and not in a good way… 2-10

Wilkie says: Jerry Kill won at Saginaw Valley State, Emporia State, Southern Illinois, and Northern Illinois he will win in Minnesota, just not this year. 3-9 but it won’t seem that bad.

Nebraska Cornhuskers: 10-4 in 2010

Welcome newcomer. Nebraska brings money, revenue and a really good team to this conference, this year. Bo Pelini deserves credit for getting this program back on track.

Offense: QB Taylor Martinez is back and that is where everything starts. Leading reciever Brandon Kinnie is back too. But only 2 starters on the line return. Could make things difficult early.

Defense: DT Jared Crick leads a stout defense that also returns tackling machine LB Lavonte David. Key starters in every spot are back. They’ll be tough.

Outlook: Come November, there may be some 2nd thoughts about having these guys in the playground. They could easily run the table and will be in the conference championship game.

Predictions:

Phil says: Look out Big 10/12. 11-1, conference champs and BCS Bowl.

Jon says: What Phil said…

Wilkie says: The Nebraska-Iowa rivalry just doesn’t have the same cache as Nebraska-Oklahoma, This will take a while for me to get used to the Huskers in the Big Ten. The Huskers will challenge for the league title though. 10-2 for the stenciled “N’s”


Northwestern Wildcats: 7-6 in 2010

Pat Fitzgerald has made them a tough out for anyone. And this time, they return a bunch of starters (16). They’ll be a handful for anyone.

Offense: QB Dan Persa returns and he’s pretty good. He accounted for a lot of 2010’s offense. 3 of the 4 leading receivers are back too. As is most of the line.

Defense: Couple of replacements needed. Though Safety Brian Peters returns. The D-Backs look pretty stout, there’s some concern again on the D-Line.

Outlook: They should be pretty good. There’s some talent and we like Fitzgerald the coach. No Ohio State or Wisconsin on the schedule will help.

Predictions:

Phil says: They are the dark horse in this conference in my eyes. 10-2 wouldn’t be a surprise.

Jon says: 6-6 and more tough losses than comfortable wins…

Wilkie says: The easiest schedule in the Big Ten might pay off handsomely for the Wildcats. 10 wins might happen.

Player of the Year:

Phil says: Dan Persa, Northwestern
Jon says: Monte Ball, Wisconsin

Wilkie says: Edwin Baker – Michigan State

Champions:

Phil says: Nebraska vs. Wisconsin. Cornhuskers win the title and BCS berth.

Jon says: Nebraska-Wisconsin… Nebraska wins and becomes both a leader and a legend…

Wilkie says: Wisconsin vs Nebraska. Badgers will be your Big Ten Champion.

Upset Saturday In NCAA's... How Many Ranked Teams Fell...???

((HT: KSL-TV))

First off, BYU couldn't keep their momentum after knocking off San Diego State as they lost to New Mexico at The Pit...

Video Courtesy of KSL.com

Louisville got a hold of UConn, but it took double overtime to do it...
((HT: WHAS-TV))


Arkansas, somewhat inexplicably, knocked off Vandy in Nashville, thanks KARK-TV...

Penn State surprised 17th-ranked Wisconsin, thanks WISC-TV in Madison...

Nebraska upsets Texas A&M...


Miss State beat Florida, thanks to MyFoxMemphis

And Marquette upset Syracuse ((but isn't everyone these days)), thanks cbs58...

TWTW: Oklahoma Saves Big 12/11/10 From A Departing Champ, Beats Nebraska

((HT: newsok.com))

The Huskers made sure the Big 12/11/10 Championship Game would be remembered. They jumped out to a 17-0 lead, dominating the first quarter-plus on both sides of the ball.

And if you believe in numbers, for the Sooners, an OU team hadn’t come back from a three-score deficit since 1983.

“I told them to just keep playin’ ball,” Sooner coach Bob Stoops said.

They did, getting pressure on any Nebraska indivudual who lined up at quarterback-winning 23-20...

Looks like they'll get UConn now in the Fiesta...

Damon Fontenot discusses...

The Rest of TWTW: Va Tech, Nebraska, and Notre Dame

((HT: KOLN/KGIN, Charlottesville Newsplex, WNDU-TV,

Nebraska finds their place in the BCS picture and the Big 12/11/10 Title Game
Insert irony here...


Virginia Tech has no issues with Virginia.
UVA head coach Mike London is already hitting the road for recruiting after a 30-point loss...


Brian Kelly wins at USC and proves just how bad a QB Mitch Mustain really is...


Enjoy...
The HQ is sorry, though, that we couldn't bring you Central Mizzou-Abilene Christian highlights from Division II...

TWTW: Nebraska coach Bo Pellini is angry....

Football coaches can be intense people. At least during a game. Many of them are as mellow off of it as they are intense on it. It's an interesting paradox that sometimes brings out the best and worst in people...all within the same day.

It also makes for some interesting highlights. Take for example Nebraska head coach Bo Pellini. Pellini was...well...let's just say less than thrilled about several things in Saturday nights 9-6 loss to Texas A&M. One was the performance...or lack of it by his team. They racked up 16 penalties during the game, the Aggies 2.

Check out Pellini going off on his quarterback Taylor Martinez:



This game also feature an incident where Texas A&M receiver Jerod Eddie reached into an "Interesting Place" trying to recover a fumble:



Here is Pellini's thoughts on the game from Omaha.com RIGHT HERE

And post game from Omaha.com:



Sorry Aggie fans, this was the only highlights we could post due to a technical thingie...but here are your second half highlights and post game:

TWTW: Nebraska Solidifies Reputation Over Kansas

((HT: KOLN/KGIN-TV Lincoln, Grand Island))

Kansas is hot and cold to say the very least...

Sometimes, Turner Gill's teams can scare the ever-loving crap out of you... Sometimes, it's blowout city and you wonder if he's outclassed as a head coach in a big-boy conference.

And, yes, it's easy to say that what's left of the Big 12/11/10 may not be exactly "big-boy."

The HQ will give the Jayhawks credit for all of their defensive efforts against Nebraska- losing only 20-3.

Problem is you need to score points yourself to have a chance to win a game against the 2010 Nebraska team... Kansas, apparently, left their offense on the bus...

Kevin Sjuts anchors the coverage for 1011Now.com
So, sure you can look at it now...


Coach Pelini said after practice Monday that the fans were "dead" on Saturday, and that the atmosphere was disappointing. He said, "I felt like I was at a scrimmage."

Don't think that'll go over well at all...

TWTW: Nebraska Survives Wild One At Iowa State

((HT: KOLN/KGIN-TV Lincoln/1011now.com))
This one was just plain odd...

Iowa State had the lead at the half. Quarterback injuries forced Nebraska to run an I-Back out of a shotgun formation. And the end was just ridiculous as Iowa State went for two and the fake to win the game at home in overtime.

Here's your extended highlights from 10/11...
Kevin Sjuts was indoors in front of a monitor for this one...


Nebraska put 31 points on the board despite only 314 yards of total offense and 15 first downs. Iowa State produced 360 total yards and 24 first downs, while running 16 more plays than the Huskers.

See...? Told you the game made no sense...

The Cornhuskers, now 8-1/4-1 Big 12 get Kansas next.

TWTW: Nebraska Brings Mizzou Back To Reality

((HT: KSHB-TV Kansas City))

Roy Helu Jr. rushed for a school-record 307 yards and Number 14 Nebraska knocked 7th-ranked Missouri from the ranks of the unbeatens with a 31-17 victory.

Helu surpasses guys like Mike Rozier and Calvin Jones on only 26 carries. He had three scores from over 50 yards in length, and has six of those this year.

The Cornhuskers, now 7-1/3-1 raced out to a 24-0 lead and into a first-place tie with the Tigers in the Big 12 North. Nebraska ended a 13-game losing streak against Top 10 teams.

Missouri, now also 7-1/3-1 was off to its best start since 1960. The Tigers have lost 17 straight road games against Top 25 opponents since 1997...

Enough stats for you...???
Here's one more... Blaine Gabbert was 18-for-42 on the day and got sacked six times.

Here's your highlights, thanks to our friends at NBCActionNews...
Justin Unell sits at the adult table...


Oh, those of you freaking out about Nebraska QB Taylor Martinez's injury...???
Bo Pelini says that his right knee is just "bruised" and he'll be okay for the Iowa State game next week.

Of course, it's just a bruise...

TWTW: Oke State Plays Someone, Can't Stop Nebraska

((HT: Newsok.com))

The running opinion on Oklahoma State this year was, "Well, they haven't played anybody, yet... We'll see what happens when they do."

Well, they did...

Taylor Martinez was responsible for five touchdowns through the air ((and a freshman record with 323 yards passing)) and Nebraska took care of the Cowboys rather handily, 51-31...

After a lightning-round of a first half, where Nebraska put up 31 points, the Cowboys couldn't keep up- period...

Guess who gets to regroup now...
Interesting to say that about the former-number 15 team in the country...

The stylish Jenni Carlson and Brandon Chatmon discuss...

TWTW: Nebraska Hit By Mack Truck, Lose To Texas

((HT: 1011now.com/KOLN-KGIN-TV))

The HQ found something out Saturday... and this statistic could be true, or a Gawd-Awful fabrication...

Longhorns Head Coach Mack Brown is 11-0 after the Oklahoma game- with or without a bye week...

How's that for "always bet on burnt orange..."
The Longhorns defense kept Taylor Martinez in check to the point where Bo Pelini brought in third-stringer Zac Lee for their fourth quarter comeback...

Too many dropped passes and penalties killed the Huskers attempts at winning this one from behind, despite the best efforts of the Texas special teams to give this one away...

Keep sharp objects away from people in Lincoln for a while...
Here's Bo Pelini's comments...Or, if you choose, here's your highlights...
Kevin Sjuts and Dan Hedman double-team your video from Memorial Stadium...

Nebraska Football Jersey Sale! High Bid Accepted

On the heels of the A.J. Green jersey sale controversy at the University of Georgia, the Nebraska Cornhuskers are auctioning game worn Husker jerseys from the upcoming Texas game. The game against the Longhorns in Lincoln is being billed as the "Nebraska Red Out Around the World."

FOSG Tony Barnhart said in his AJC.com column that Nebraska will take off the last names off the jersey's before being sold to the public.

With that knowledge the top bid for quarterback Taylor Martinez's #3 red Nebraska jersey currently stands at $999.99. That's too rich for my blood. Will Martinez get a cut of the jersey sale, I think not.

Those of us at the OSG HQ noticed more than half of the jerseys being auctioned have no bids attached. If they are giving them away send a few our way.

Nebraska Settles With Big 12/11/10, Colorado Does, Too...

((HT: KOLN/KGIN-TV Lincoln))

The University of Nebraska has reached an agreement with the Big 12/11/10 Conference to finally bail and head to the Big 10/11/12.

The conference will withhold a little over $9-million from the estimated $19 million they could have picked up during the last two years of its time in the Big 12/11/10.

If Nebraska is one of two Big 12/11/10 teams to play in a BCS bowl game, the fee would be reduced by $500,000. The settlement is final pending approval by the Nebraska Board of Regents.

"The University of Nebraska believes this is a fair settlement of our disagreement regarding the appropriateness in this instance of imposing any monetary fee on the university for withdrawing from the conference. We continue to value our ongoing relationships with the institutions of the Big 12 and have great respect for their leadership and the leadership of the conference," said Chancellor Harvey Perlman.

"We feel the long-term benefits of entering into the Big Ten, both academically and athletically, will make this a very good investment," said Nebraska Athletic Director Tom Osborne.

Big 12 Conference Commissioner Dan Beebe said: "This agreement was accomplished through a collegial, respectful process among the conference, its institutions, and the University of Nebraska that led to a resolution that all parties believe is fair. I appreciate the cooperation of Chancellor Harvey Perlman and Nebraska staff. The Big 12 has enjoyed its relationship with Nebraska and wishes it well in the future."

Nebraska will become an official member of the Big Ten/11/12 July 1, 2011.

Kevin Sjuts has the details... thanks to our friends at 1011now.com


Colorado gets to move to the Pac-10/11/12 in 2011 instead of 2012 by forking over a little under $7-million...

The HQ thinks this is still the beginning of the landscape shift...

So Much For That "Locker For Heisman" Talk

((HT: KOLN/KGIN-TV Lincoln))

Taylor Martinez ran for 137 yards and three touchdowns, threw for another 150 yards and a score and Nebraska blew out Washington 56-21.

Roy Helu, Jr. added 110 yards and two touchdown runs of 65 and 8 yards. The Cornhuskers ran for 383 yards total.

Nebraska, now 3-0, led 28-14 at halftime before Martinez took the first play of the second half 80 yards for his second score. Washington never got closer than 14 points in a wild second half. The 56 points tied the most ever allowed by Washington at home

Dan Hedman of 10-11 Sports and 10-11Now.com has the highlights...


The HQ would like to send special shout-out type stuff to Alphonso Dennard representing Rochelle and Wilcox County proud...

Oh, Jake Locker...??? 4-for-20 on the day...

Big 12 Conference Preview

The Big 12 Conference:

The Big 12 Conference is still in business even though the conferences survival looked dire a few months ago. Nothing has changed for 2010 but it’s going be business unusual for the 12. It’s a lame duck year for Nebraska and Colorado. Texas A&M took charity from the desperate teams in the North to ensure their livelihood. There are some bitter feelings among the schools which might make for some interesting games in the league.

Big 12 fans, sit back and enjoy. It’s going to be one hell of a ride.

Big 12 North

Nebraska Cornhuskers
1009 Record: 10-4

Things To Like About Nebraska: The Cornhuskers are poised to make their final season in the Big 12 memorable. Even though Ndamukong Suh moved on to the Detroit Lions, the Nebraska defense will be stout. DT Jared Crick should be the star of the Husker defense this year. The offense should be much better returning 9 starters including the running back duo of Roy Helu and Rex Burkhead. Hey it’s Nebraska, you know the offensive line will have five earth movers mowing down defensive lines. The entire offensive line returns for the Big Red.

Things To Not Like About Nebraska: It’s never good to be unsettled at quarterback heading into fall camp but that’s what the Huskers are looking at. It’s a three man race between senior Zac Lee, sophomore Cody Green and true freshman Taylor Martinez. Green and Martinez took all the snaps during spring practice while Lee missed spring ball with a shoulder injury. This is a huge decision for offensive coordinator Shawn Watson.

OSG’s Take: The schedule sets up perfect for Nebraska to make a national championship run. Texas must come to Lincoln (appointment TV alert) and Oklahoma is not on the schedule. Nebraska better be ready for everyone’s “A” game though in the conference because the other schools will want to take their shots at the Cornhuskers for bolting to the Big Ten conference.

Wilkie: As a fan of the old Big 8 I’m really disappointed that OU-Nebraska won’t happen this year and perhaps never again. With that said it would be great to see these old rivals play at the end of the year in the title game. I’m going to say 11-1 this year for Nebraska and in the BCS Championship Game hunt.

Phil: Nebraska will never be the Nebraska of the 70's, but this is the best team they've had in a while. They have a shot because Texas and Oklahoma won't be as good. 10-2 Good Bowl game.

Nelson: To settle this one, I have to say that Wilkie has lost his mind. While it's said that defenses win championships, Bo Pelini needs a settled offense to get within sniffing distance. It won't happen... a BCS bowl, but not the one most in Lincoln want.

Missouri Tigers
2009 Record: 8-5

Things To Like About Missouri: With Colt McCoy and Sam Bradford in the NFL, Blake Gabbert now takes the reigns as the best quarterback in the Big 12. Gabbert is poised for a great year. With that said the Mizzou offense can’t ignore Derrick Washington who is a big time back in that offense. The Tigers will put points on the board. On defense Aldon Smith will create havoc for the opposition, he’s that good.

Things To Not Like About Missouri: The secondary gave up way too many big plays last year. For Mizzou to be successful that unit will need to make more plays. Mizzou’s Big 12 schedule is as rough as you can get with Oklahoma and Nebraska back to back. Thank god Texas is off the docket.

OSG’s Take: Mizzou has a reputation for some head scratching losses. This year the Tigers must win the games they are suppose to win. Mizzou found out during the lastest round of conference swapping that their football program, while on the rise, isn’t close to being the brand name Nebraska is for the Big Ten. The Tigers want to prove that wrong and they have the team and most importantly, the coach in place to change attitudes toward their football program. Mizzou will be a focused team this year.

Wilkie: I really think Missouri will win the Big 12 North and beat Nebraska at Lincoln. There I’m on the record. I’m just very nervous about their schedule.

Phil: Wilkie, did you just contradict what you said in the Nebraska summary? Good but not great team here. Unless they play "D", write down 8-4 and take it to a bowl.

Nelson: I'm with Phil again... can someone check the tape...? I like another shot in the Texas Bowl to get beat by Navy again. You see the ballpark I'm in here. Gabbert will have to create more than he wants, which will force some losses that may not look that way when you look at the schedule.

Colorado Buffalos
2009: 3-9

Things To Like About Colorado: Another year older and wiser. The Buffalos return 10 starters on offense including dynamic running back Rodney Stewart who has had a hard time staying healthy and on the field the last two years. Tyler Hansen has stabilized the quarterback position. On defense the linebacker corps looks to be improved led by B.J. Beatty.

Things Not To Like About Colorado: The defense didn’t make the big stop last year plus creating turnovers was a big issue last season. It would help to for the Buffalos to have some kind of pass rush too.

OSG’s Take: Colorado head coach Dan Hawkins is the luckiest man in college football. The Buffalos were expected to contend in 2009 but the season went to hell from opening kick-off yet Hawkins kept his job. So with a new lease on his coaching life and 10 returning starters on offense and seven on defense, this is the year to produce a winner in Boulder. If not the temptation to start fresh went the Buffs join the Pac-10 might be too much for Colorado to pass up and Dan Hawkins will be coaching intramurals.

Wilkie: I’m willing to bet the season hinges on the opening game against Colorado State. With Georgia coming to Folsom Field and conference road games at Missouri, at Oklahoma and at Nebraska, 5-7 is about the max.

Phil: Say goodbye Dan Hawkins. Man, how quickly did his career crash? Colorado hasn't been the same in years. They may be marginally better, but 4-8 or 5-7 if they catch a break is it.

Nelson: This ain't intramurals, brother. This season will prove that saying to Dan Hawkins once and for all. He never should have left Boise. See what coulda been in Division One Football...? Not even .500

Kansas Jayhawks
2009 Record: 5-7

Things To Like About Kansas: If Turner Gill can turn the University of Buffalo into a winner just think what he do in Lawrence. There is offensive talent with Toben Opurum in the backfield and a solid offensive line. On defense the line has some players who can get to the quarterback and get in the backfield.

Things To Not Like About Kansas: There is no more Todd Reesing so quarterback is an issue. Kale Pick and Jordan Webb are competing for the job. The secondary loses two of its best players. KU’s defensive backs didn’t pick off many passes last year either.

OSG’s Take: With Turner Gill in charge there is a different vibe in Lawrence. The offense should be efficient and there’s enough defense to stay in games. Kansas won’t be a factor in the Big 12 North but they will determine who wins it and go bowling this season.

Wilkie: The Turner Gill era begins with a bowl game. 7-5 for the Jayhawks


Phil: Gill will be more successful than Mangino the Hut...and he wasn't bad. 6-6 this year, better days ahead.

Nelson: I like the idea of Gill leading the Jayhawks to a bowlgame- even without Reesing. If the people in Lawrence will be patient, you'll have long-term success. Just take it slowly...

Kansas State Wildcats
2009 Record: 6-6

Things To Like About Kansas State: Bill Snyder coming back as head coach proved to be a good move last year. Snyder will maximize his resources every year. Daniel Thomas returns after leading the Big 12 in rushing a year ago. The defensive line should be solid with the infusion of JUCO talent, especially against the run.

Things To Not Like About Kansas State: K-State needs consistent quarterback play from Carson Coffman. The Wildcats were dead last in the Big 12 in passing and that needs to improve. There was a significant talent drain at linebacker and that unit will need to be solidified quickly.

OSG’s Take: K-State will play hard and will be no push over but there are some deficiencies in some key areas. Snyder can get the maximum out of his talent but unfortunately that won’t be enough this year especially with the schedule. UCLA, Nebraska and Texas are on the docket and then closing the season with three straight road games will be tough.

Wilkie: Here’s a bold prediction for you. K-State will upset Texas on November 6th. You don’t want to play the Wildcats at the Little Apple in November. I love the heart of this team and think K-State will win six games and go to a bowl.

Phil: Not feeling the love here. There is no depth or experience here. Yeah, Snyder is a good coach, but smoke and mirrors will only get you so far. 4-8

Nelson: Wilkie, what did you eat before you started working on this...? I'm with Phil again... The schedule will catch up with them at the end, and I like Kansas in the Apple Cup.

Iowa State Cyclones
2009 Record: 7-6

Things To Like About Iowa State: Paul Rhodes was the perfect hire for Iowa State and is a perfect fit for this program. The offense has a go to back in Alexander Robinson. An offense line that’s strength is pass protection and a pretty good quarterback in Austen Arnaud.

Things To Not Like About Iowa State: The defense. The Cyclones haven’t sniffed the quarterback lately and with a defensive line that lacks size a consistent pass rush will be tough. Three new starters at linebacker doesn’t bode will either.

OSG’s Take: Iowa State was the feel good story in the Big 12 last year with a winning season including an Insight.com bowl win. The offense will get it done. The defense will be the issue for the Cyclones. With road games at Oklahoma, at Texas and at in state rival Iowa plus Nebraska and Utah on the docket, its going to be tough to match last years success.

Wilkie: It’s going to be a long year in Ames this year. 4-8 for the Cyclones.

Phil: Again solid, but unspectacular. Defense will bite them in the ass. 6-6

Nelson: Gotta go with Wilkie here for a change. I don't see a lot of wins here... at all... although I like Rhodes and what he's doing in the long-term if Ames will put up with him.

Big 12 South

Oklahoma Sooners
2009 Record: 8-5

Things To Like About Oklahoma: Landry Jones comes back as an experienced quarterback. Say what you want about Sam Bradford going down last year but Jones was thrown into the fire and performed pretty well. The Sooners offense if full of playmakers and the defense is outstanding.

Things To Not Like About Oklahoma: If OU has any weakness is a proven playmaker at corner but that’s really, really being picky.

OSG’s Take: OU will be awesome this year, enough said.

Wilkie: The Sooners will be 12-0 and will go to the BCS Championship Game.

Phil: They will be good, but not as good as the last couple of years. But good enough to go 11-1

Nelson: I just don't see Landry Jones getting past the Red River Shootout in one piece. Jones has made, and will continue to make, strides-and-a-half as starting QB. Just not enough to get them past Texas.
A big New Year's Bowl is in their future, but not big enough.

Texas Longhorns
2009 Record: 13-1

Things To Like About Texas: The defense will be tremendous this year. The Longhorn “D” will be almost impossible to run against. Sam Acho will get to the quarterback. The secondary is full of players that will play on Sunday. Yes Colt McCoy is gone but Garrett Gilbert is a QB Horns’ fans can hang the hat on. You know what Gilbert almost accomplished in the BCS Title Game against Alabama after being thrown into the fire.

Things To Not Like About Texas: While the offensive line is OK and there is depth issues at linebacker, and that’s being very, very picky, there’s not much to be concerned with.

OSG’s Take: Texas will be well, Texas again. The Big 12 South will be determined at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas October 2nd. Going to Nebraska this year with all the circumstances involved will be a huge test.


Wilkie: The defense might carry this team and its hard for me to see this team beating Oklahoma and Nebraska this year. I say 10-2.

Phil: Again, good, not great. This, while a great defensive team, will struggle on offense. They'll miss Jordan Shipley more than Colt McCoy. 11-1

Nelson: I think that Nebraska, OU, and Texas will all beat up on each other during the season- more than once. But when it counts, I gotta go with Mack Brown.

Texas A&M Aggies
2009 Record: 6-7

Things To Like About Texas A&M: The Aggie offense is explosive. Jarrod Johnson is a special quarterback with a live arm and tremendous size at 6-5, 243 pounds. With receivers like Jeff Fuller, Ryan Tannehill and budding superstar Uzoma Nwachukwu the Aggies passing game could be off the charts.

Things Not To Like About Texas A&M: The Aggies finished dead last in total defense in the Big 12 last year. While A&M’s defense has speed its not very physical.

OSG’s Take: Texas A&M could pose a challenge to the gang of two (Oklahoma & Texas) in the South if the defense improves. The offense will score points it’s whether the defense can stop someone from scoring points.

Wilkie: Its about time good things happened in College Station, in my book one of the best if not the best college football atmosphere’s. 9-3 but I wouldn’t be surprised if the Aggies pulled off 10 wins.

Phil: Prototypical 12 team. Light it up and hope you get a stop. They got screwed in the realignment thing, but that's there own fault. They'll score enough to be dangerous. 8-4

Nelson: Tremendous offensive talent plus mediocre defense equals 6-6. I'm just not all that impressed.

Texas Tech Red Raiders
2009 Season: 9-4

Things To Like About Texas Tech: The OSG HQ really likes the Tommy Tuberville hire at Texas Tech. Mike Leach put the program on the radar screen but how many championships did Leach win in Lubbock? Tuberville has been there, done that in the SEC. There is plenty of talent this year including Red Raider quarterbacks Taylor Potts and Steven Sheffield. The skill players are outstanding and the receivers will be a major weapon. The linebackers are the strength of the Red Raider defense.

Things Not To Like About Texas Tech: There is very little depth on defense and the secondary may get burned a few times. Only 2 starters return from an offensive line that wasn’t very good last year. With a new coaching staff it’s going to take some time to get that group to gel.

OSG’s Take: Bringing Neal Brown into Lubbock from Troy as offensive coordinator to keep the up tempo offense could be a brilliant move by Tuberville. There won’t be much disruption on that side of the ball. The Red Raiders catch a break with the Longhorns making the trip to West Texas this year (Upset alert!). The schedule sets up nice for a highly successful first season for the Tuberville era in Lubbock.

Wilkie: Texas Tech wins 9 games, perhaps 10 and upsets Texas or Oklahoma.

Phil: Without D, it doesn't matter how much you score. Tommy will pull some hair out this season, though better seasons are ahead. 8-4

Nelson: See A&M... but just the other way around. There's usually a year or so of transition when you're bringing in new coaches with old systems. If Neal Brown can equal the Evil Genius, then you've got something. Just not yet...

Baylor Bears
2009 Record: 4-8

Things To Like About Baylor: Robert Griffin returns healthy after blowing out his knee last year. Griffin flat out makes Baylor a bowl contender. The Baylor offense is loaded with speed especially at receiver.

Things To Not Like About Baylor: The Bear defense must be more consistent against the run and have some kind of pass rush which would take pressure off the defensive backs in the pass happy Big 12. The offensive line has had issues blocking the last two years but might get by with the ultra mobile Griffin under center.

OSG’s Take: Art Briles is one of the best coaches flying under the radar. Briles’ staff has stocked the program with some talented players that should begin to come into their own this season. With Robert Griffin healthy all year the Bears should go to their first bowl game in 16 years.

Wilkie: It’s going to be fun watching Baylor play this year. The Bears win six and go bowling.

Phil: As Robert Griffin goes, so goes Baylor. Dangerous team to play. 7-5

Nelson: Bowling, maybe New Mexico or Dallas... for the DFC- calm down...

Oklahoma State Cowboys
2009 Record: 9-4

Things To Like About Oklahoma State: There are athletes all over the field but that’s how they do things in Stillwater. Kendall Hunter is one of the best running backs in the Big 12 and should go over 1,000 yards. The defensive line may not be beefy but they are athletic and make plays.

Things Not To Like About Oklahoma State: The star power is gone and the Pokes lost a ton of talent. The offensive line only returns one starter and it will take time for this unit to gel.

OSG’s Take: Yes the Pokes had a significant talent drain but don’t write off the Fightin’ Gundys. Things will be just fine in Stillwater. Its tough when your homecoming game is Nebraska, you must make a trip to Texas and the annual Bedlam Series with OU though the Sooners must come to Boone Pickens Stadium. There are way too many athletes on the roster for a drop off in the win column.

Wilkie: The Pokes will win 8 games this year.

Phil: Last year was their shot at glory. Didn't happen. A somewhat undisciplined team that will never be more than what they are. 7-5

Nelson: Average team with an average bowl in their future... meh...

Big 12 Champion

Wilkie: Oklahoma
Phil: Oklahoma
Nelson: Texas

Big 12 Offensive Player Of The Year:

Wilkie: Robert Griffin – Baylor
Phil: Griffin (If healthy)
Nelson: And a triple... Griffin...

Big 12 Defensive Player Of The Year

Wilkie: Jared Crick - Nebraska
Phil: Crick (I hate making the same pick)
Nelson:This was easy... Crick...

Your New Border War, Nebraska vs Iowa

Nebraska won't join the Big Ten Conference until next year but the Husker nation is already fanning the flames toward their new rival, the Iowa Hawkeyes, or vice versa.

Here's an editorial from Cooter Ray Cornhowler.

(Thanks WHO-TV)



Those of us at the OSG HQ are in pain from laughing too hard. Great stuff.

The Big 12 Appears To Be On It's Deathbed

This weekend the Big 12 Conference may be a flat lined. It appears that Nebraska will certainly join the Big 10 Conference. Friday the University of Nebraska's Board of Regents will meet and one of the items on the agenda is: Resolution regarding UNL athletic conference alignment. That is the strongest indication from Lincoln that the University intends to move on.

Will that invitation to join the Big 10 Conference be extended to the University of Nebraska? Wednesday University of Nebraska officials they have not received an offer from the Big 10.

Many media outlets are reporting that it's a done deal. Read below.

http://www.huskerextra.com/articles/2010/06/10/football/doc4c1050f4ef1f6253873668.txt

Now the dominoes are falling. The Omaha World-Herald is reporting that Texas athletic director DeLoss Dodds and Texas A&M athletic director Bill Byrne plan to meet to discuss their department's future.

The Pac-10 has reportedly offered Texas and Texas A&M to join but the eyes of Texas (and A&M) might be on the SEC. Stay tuned.

An OSG source who regularly covers the Big 12 Conference said its all but certain Oklahoma will be heading to the Pac-10 conference. The Oklahoman is citing a source high in the University hierarchy that the Sooners are heading west.

Here's more from The Oklahoman: http://newsok.com/rest-in-pieces-big-12-with-nebraska-reportedly-heading-to-big-ten-ou-osu-move-to-pac-10-seems-imminent/article/3467393?custom_click=lead_story_title

We are still gathering our thoughts here at the OSG HQ. More to come.

Photo Courtesy: The Oklahoman

Big 12 tells Nebraska and Missouri to get it over with... UPDATE: Pac-10 OK With Expansion...

((ht: austin american-statesman))

We, much like the rest of the college football world are eagerly awaiting the end of the conference realignment dance. Nobody is perhaps more anxious than Dan Beebe, the commissioner of the Big 12 Conference.

According to a story in today's Austin American-Statesman, the Conference has told Nebraska and Missouri to make up their minds where they are going. And they added "Do it by Friday".

Both schools have been allegedly linked to the Pac 10 and the Big 10, but nobody will "On the Record" confirm that as being true.

That is all well and good, but Beebe and the "12" might want to pay a little more attention to what is happening with 6 other of its teams. Teams that are being wooed by the Pac 10.

The Pac 10 is meeting this weekend in San Francisco and one of the topics of conversation has been raiding roughly half of the "Big 12", a move that would cripple the conference. Nothing has been decided as of the writing of this story.

We don't, at this point really know who or what to believe. The alleged sticking point in all of this has allegedly been the University of Texas. On one hand the story goes that the Pac 10 wants them as one of their "6". The other is the steady trickle of stories saying that the "Big 10" has tried hard to get them. However, a sticking point may be the Texas legislature, which is trying to have a voice on which teams "They" would allow to move with UT.

Like everyone else, we will sit back, watch and wait. We are beginning to get the feeling that even after all of the talk, nothing will get done before this years football season begins. That doesn't mean that it won't....it will. There is too much money involved for it not to.

Check out this really cool video that the University of Nebraska did. One football gameday...in a One Minute and 43 second time lapse:



SUNDAY UPDATE: The Pac-10 muckety-mucks have given Commissioner Larry Scott the official okey-dokey to expand. Mark Saxson of ESPNLosAngeles has emerged from the conference meetings with the notion that the Pac-10 should know what they're doing by the end of the calendar year... or even as early as July 27 - Day One of Pac-10 Media Days In New York City.

The schools that would be a part of the Big West ((Or whatever in the hell they're going to call it)) wouldn't join until the 2012-13 season.

There are also reports emerging that the Texas state legislature is pressuring the idea of Baylor going to the new conference instead of Colorado. John Werner of the Waco Tribune-Herald trails another orangebloods.com report that 15 legislators will back the Bears and not the Buffs.

“If you’re going to have an exported commodity involved in this, do you think we’re going to allow a school outside the state of Texas to replace one of our schools in the Big 12 South?” a high-ranking member of the Texas Legislature who asked not to be identified told Orangebloods.com.

Has the Big Ten already invited new members?

((ht: Sports Radio 810 Kansas City))

Depending on how much you believe what you read, the Big Ten has already fired the 1st shots in what could be a dramatic makeover of Division 1 NCAA Sports.

WHB Sports Radio in Kansas City is reporting, based on what they say "Multiple Sources" that the Big Ten has extended offers to join the league to Missouri and Nebraska along with Notre Dame and Rutgers.

The Sports Radio 810 WHB story, RIGHT HERE

By now we already know why such issues are being discussed; it's the money. For the Big 12 teams (Mizzou and Nebraska), they stand to gain a whole lot more money because the 12 does a sliding payout to their schools. Meaning...unless you've been Texas or Oklahoma, you don't get near the cut they do from the conference's bowl games. They would in the 10.

We aren't sure what would be in it for Notre Dame, they already have their own network and get paid pretty well for that and other things...plus they don't have to share.

For Rutgers, it's about TV. The Big 10 Network in particular. It would give them a team in the New York City marketplace and make the network oh so much more lucrative in that area.

We suspect that there may be some truth to this story, we will know for sure in the next month or so. We are a little skeptical that the 1st to report this is a Sports Talk Radio station in Kansas City...but then again, we are just a small little blog on the internet too.

TWTW: No Holiday For Arizona, Nebraska Crushes The 'Cats

The Nebraska we knew and loved on the football field just may be back. Wednesday night at the Holiday Bowl, the Cornhuskers pitched its first bowl shutout in school history whipping Arizona 33-0. Don't you find it hard to believe that in 46 bowls games this storied football program has played in Nebraska has never shut out an opponent. The Cornhuskers did in the Holiday Bowl and that is very significant.

A year ago Bo Pellini took over a program that had lost its way. The ole swagger was gone, their was no mystic. Nebraska had become just another mediocre program in the Big 12 North.

Slowly the program has gotten back on its feet. Winning the Big 12 North and playing in the Big 12 Championship game was a big first step in getting back on the national stage but then the Cornhuskers upped the ante with a remarkable defensive performance and the coming out party of Ndamukong Suh. If the Husker offense would have..... aw the heck with it.

Wednesday in San Diego the Nebraska way was back. The Cornhuskers jumped all over Arizona and showed the confidence and swagger that defined the Tom Osbourne era.

Those of us in the OSG HQ are glad to see Nebraska back on the college football radar screen and think the Huskers will be back in the Top 10 of the polls next season.

Here are the highlights of the game. (Thanks ESPN/Youtube.com)

Click here for a full post game wrap up from WOWT-TV in Omaha, Nebraska.

Photos Courtesy: Huskers.com & Ted Kirk/Lincoln Journal Star

A Boy Named Suh

Do you think Nebraska's Ndamukong Suh had his coming out party Saturday in the Big 12 Championship Game against Texas? Colt McCoy is still having nightmares about the big Husker hunting him down.

This boy named Sue, actually this man, sacked McCoy 4 and a half times, seven total tackles for loss, a career-high 12 tackles and two quarterback hurries. Just a day in the office for Sue however, he did it on a national stage against a Texas team looking to go to the BCS Championship Game. Suh's performance against the Longhorns will make him a millionaire.

Now Suh will begin to collect hardware. Monday he won the Bronko Nagurski Trophy which is awarded to college football's best defensive player. Suh is the first Cornhusker to win the award which to me is unbelievable.

"This was definitely a big surprise," Suh said at Monday night's presentation banquet. "I want to thank all the other guys here. They are all great players. And I would like to thank the Bronko Nagurski family as well as the (Nebraska) coaches, Bo Pelini and his staff and my parents, This is a great honor. I am speechless. I was definitely not planning on winning this award."

Suh might want to clear some space for the other trophies that might come his way. He's a finalist for the the Walter Camp Award, the Outland Trophy, the Bednarik Award, the Rotary Lombardi Award and the Lott Trophy. Oh by the way, Suh will head to New York this weekend as a Heisman Trophy finalist.

He won't win them all but Suh will parlay a successful senior season at Nebraska into a hefty paycheck in the NFL.

The pro scouts love his size of 6'4", 300 pounds. Did you see how he shed double teams from the Texas offensive line? Suh is the type of player a team desperate for a defensive presence can built around. I'm talking to you Kansas City Chiefs. Suh is right there in your back yard and your defense is not very good (31st in total defense in the NFL and in sacks).

In the meantime Suh will make the rounds accepting trophies, making speeches and then start preparing for the Holiday Bowl where Nebraska will take on Arizona. You think the Wildcats will know what they are up against?

Here's a feature on Suh from College Gameday. Thanks Youtube/ESPN

Photo Courtesy: Bob Pearson/Lincoln Journal Star