[Husker] Next Saturday...

[David Strong]

...toe meets leather.  And a universal "Finally!" goes up from Husker
Nation.  Been looking forward to this season more than any I can remember.
Can't wait for all the games against new opponents and even our
non-conference schedule is not an embarrassment.  I am not as optimistic as
poll voters and all the predictions about us winning, or even playing for,
the Big 10 title.  Nobody is worried about the defense...lots of good
players + Bo Pelini = a very good, potentially great, defense.  I thought
our offense at the end of last year was broken and dysfunctional way beyond
just Taylor's ankle.  But who knows maybe...

- Martinez really can pass
- someone can catch
- the frosh at running back will be good enough to help 22.
- the OL really is better than it has been due to injuries and will now be
healthy, and thereby good
- Tim Beck is the next big thing at OC and can not only coach but plan and
call a game.

I am trying to stay grounded and be satisfied with a 5-3 conference record
and 9 wins being a solid, successful season.  Those are the goals I have set
in my head, but I'd love to beat them both.  Both will be hard, and maybe
5-3 or 6-2 could get to the conf. champ. game, but I'm not making
Indianapolis hotel reservations just yet.  This ain't the Big 12 North
anymore.

Here's to an exciting season and winning some big games.

Dave