[Husker] Nebraska - Big10 vs Big12

[Andrew Smith]

I think the idea that lack of familiarity with the Big10 team's hurt 
Nebraska is exaggerated (not non-existent, but exaggerated).  Those 
teams would also be hurt by their lack of familiarity with Nebraska.  
Also, I don't see Big10 style football as being so usual that it takes a 
substantial time to adjust.
IMHO, Nebraska's problems have primarily been due to poor OL and DL 
play/talent.  Also, TM's throwing motion is a problem that hinders his 
long range passing (and no above-average receivers doesn't help either).

I can see the DL being fixed since we've seen great defenses under Bo, 
but I'm not convinced that the OL will get better.  It's been pretty bad 
since Callahan left (though I was/am glad to see him go).  I would like 
TM's throwing motion to get fixed and think it can be significantly 
improved (simply because it's so bad), but am puzzled that it has not 
been already (again, because it's so bad).

Regarding Big10 vs Big12 strength...
Sagarin's conference rankings has Big12 solidly at #1, SEC solidly at #2 
and the Big10 and Pac10 essentially tied at #3.
Here are his ratings of Nebraska and top Big12 teams
   95.92 Oklahoma
   94.16 Oklahoma State
   88.50 Texas A&M
   86.31 Missouri
   84.72 Texas
   83.49 Kansas State
   82.65 Nebraska
   82.15 Baylor
   73.81 Iowa State
   71.36 Texas Tech
   60.38 Kansas
Note that Northwestern is rated 72.98 so, at best, only Kansas would be 
a "safe" game.
I don't see Nebraska having a better record had they stayed in the Big 12.

Go Big Red!
Andy