[Husker] Recruits at QB?

[Duane Feldman]

I am much more optimistic than you, Dave.  This is Watson's only offense
since being named OC that hasn't been ranked in the top 20 in the country.
Every starter from the 22 set (two backs, two tight ends and a single wide
receiver - lately our most frequently used, power-I formation), returns next
year except our center (Hickman) and Caputo has played well in reserve.  So
a return to a top 20 offense next year would hardly be a shock, if not
expected.

We have had several problems offensively this year, including inexperience
at QB, wide receivers who have not lived up to expectations (yet?), and
injuries - particularly on the O-line and running back positions.  Not only
did these factors cause a reduction in offensive production, but the high
level of turnovers and number of penalties, combined with an incredibly good
defense, changed the offensive philosophy to one of extreme conservatism.  I
suspect we have all noted that since the ISU game our offensive numbers have
become VERY limited.  Yet had we used a more conservative offense against
ISU (one predicated on field position, protecting the ball and grinding out
an occasional long drive versus our "big play" philosophy at the time) we
would have won that game.  Note that we haven't lost since that game despite
almost every opponent out-yarding us!  Next year I see a return to a more
aggressive offense (provided we reduce the turnover problems).  The return
of a strong defense might be the only reason we remain conservative and out
of the top 20 in offense.  I have no idea at this point whether Lee, Green,
or even Spano will start.

Defensively, we lose a lot in Suh, Turner, and both safeties.  But 7 is
still the most returning starters that Bo and Carl have ever had.  Even with
losing 7 and 5 defensive starters the previous two years, the defense has
risen from #114 under Cosgrove, to #55 in Pelini's first year, to #3 in
scoring D this year.  With Steinkuhler, Meridith and PJ Smith as proven
backups and either Thenarse returning or Hagge moving to safety, we still
have a pretty talented group to build upon.  I don't see next year's D
falling out of the top ten in the country.

We also have the best special teams player in the country returning in Alex
Henery.  He may not win the Lou Groza award this year, but I wouldn't trade
him for whoever does.  His FG kicking is phenomenal, coupled with his
exceptional placement of punts make him the best in my mind.  Long-snapper,
holder and kickoff specialist all return as well.

I don't think the talent level is high enough for a national title, but a
return to the top ten looks like a lock to me.

As usual, I got carried away and said a lot more than I had intended when I
started.

Duane Feldman

-----Original Message-----
From: husker-bounces at tssi.com [mailto:husker-bounces at tssi.com] On Behalf Of
David Strong


Yeah...you're probably right.  the offense overall will be better.  Lee
better?  Maybe some, no order of magnitude though.  Green? Not the future
everyone was hoping I'm afraid.  I wasn't hoping for a new freshman for next
year, what we have is what we will have next year.  (ugh) Don't know much
about Spano other than he is another guy who hasn't played.

Do you think Callahan was looking to Gabbert as his QB?  I can't believe he
thought he had anything special in this lot.

Dave




________________________________