[Husker] A Fan's Perspective

[Steve Stone]

Although the 69-yard TD pass to Niles Paul was called back because of 
a holding penalty, the loss of the TD really didn't materially affect 
the outcome of the game, but it seemed to me that the team suffered a 
slight let-down in intensity afterward. If that did actually happen 
(and it's only my perception that it did), it may have been because 
the first three TD's and the called-back TD seemed so effortless that 
the younger players may have slacked off ever so slightly in 
anticipation of a romp.

It's hard for a spectator to know how good this team can be at the 
end of the season. During the Devaney/Osborne years, we were 
observing a familiar product known for its reliability. But now we're 
seeing a team rife with unknowns ... and a Head Coach telling us in 
no uncertain terms that he has certain reservations about attitude 
and execution, something we almost never heard in previous eras.

I believe this team has the potential to be competitive against VT 
but constantly feel the ground shifting under my feet even as I type 
these words. On the other hand, in 1996 I was completely convinced of 
the Huskers' invincibility, when we traveled to Tempe to watch them 
play ASU. That road trip ended in utter disaster.

Even so, I'm betting on this year's Huskers to the extent of gladly 
anteing up the TV fee to watch them give it a shot. I just hope it's 
their best shot.

Steve Stone