NO OPTION TAILGATE

This Blog Has Moved

2010-09-02T08:14:00.000-05:00

This Blog has moved....

Please visit the new and improved No Option Tailgate Blog

http://www.nooptiontailgate.blogspot.com/

Thanks!

Dean's List

2009-11-18T19:22:00.002-06:00

Thanksgiving list of 'thanks' for No Option 2009...updated from 2008

Current 7-3 record, hopeful for a regular season 9-3 record
Notre Dame still sucks...don't fire Charlie...or they might get better
No Option sponsors for their season contributions
The 4th (Annual) Dave Hepp knee surgery video for sell in December
Never assume a NU loss...Oklahoma...a sweet victory
Essentially good weather for all tailgate home dates
Nanci Mayhan's brownies
BCS Bowl & another New Year's weekend game day dreams
Space heaters on cold days
Callahan is still in New York, Pederson is in Pittsburgh, and Cosgrove is in Minnesota...
Steve Mayhan is still in black
The Cubs...maybe next year (or decade)
The Big-12 North is still a weak division
Matt's finished his deck ...early this spring
Direct Dugger service...PPV games
NU players in consideration for all Big 12 team honors
Chili recipe and Blue Ribbon award for Jose and Jamie
Endless refreshments (cans and/or kegs) from Jon and Jose
Friends, family & work colleague drop-in visits...
Randy's Pick'em contest...it's rigged
A locked & indoor storage for the trailer...at Duggerville
Santa Claus is coming to Omaha again...to all the good girls and boys
An easy victory over Kansas State on senior day...

Nebraska: 42 Colorado: 17

Score Predictions - KSU

2009-11-16T07:11:00.000-06:00

Drop your predictions for KSU week like they're hot...

Past Winners:
Wk 1 Rowan (off by 7)
Wk 2 Kovar (off by 3)
Wk 3 Jenna (off by 7)
Wk 4 Dean (off by 13)
Wk 5 Jose Angel Rivera Juarez (off by 6)
Wk 6 Storo (off by 18)
Wk 7 Kenney (off by 18)
wk 8 whoops...i forgot
wk 9 Bob (off by 22)
wk 10 Everybody forgot....

Score Predictions - KU

2009-11-11T22:24:00.000-06:00

Drop your predictions for KU week like they're hot...

Past Winners:
Wk 1 Rowan (off by 7)
Wk 2 Kovar (off by 3)
Wk 3 Jenna (off by 7)
Wk 4 Dean (off by 13)
Wk 5 Jose Angel Rivera Juarez (off by 6)
Wk 6 Storo (off by 18)
Wk 7 Kenney (off by 18)
wk 8 whoops...i forgot
wk 9 Bob (off by 22)

Scenes from OU Tailgate...

2009-11-11T22:21:00.001-06:00

Score Prediction - OU

2009-11-03T19:51:00.001-06:00

Drop your predictions for OU week like they're hot...

Past Winners:
Wk 1 Rowan (off by 7)
Wk 2 Kovar (off by 3)
Wk 3 Jenna (off by 7)
Wk 4 Dean (off by 13)
Wk 5 Jose Angel Rivera Juarez (off by 6)
Wk 6 Storo (off by 18)
Wk 7 Kenney (off by 18)
wk 8 whoops...i forgot

Scenes from ISU Tailgate...

2009-11-03T19:48:00.001-06:00

Dean's List

2009-11-03T17:50:00.002-06:00

The best place to be and get benefits at the same time...

Jose R. in Vegas last weekend...does he have any stories to share?

Coach Watson standing on the sidelines...why is he holding that clipboard...for what?

Jon L. in Waco, Texas wearing a banana like adult costume...risking being locked up in a padded cell in crazy town!

Bob F. sitting at Dugger's being delivered plates of food...while in rehab (for medical reasons only)

Suh volunteering at the Lincoln Humane Society...agreement to keep animal rights protester's from picketing the game?

Tara T. at the doctor's office and hearing the rabbit died...congratulations Baby Husker!

Ryan K. at the local sports bar watching the World Series...with Milton Bradley...go Cubs!!!

Randy K. at the Husker Home Run Club reunion...with Mike Anderson...asking what is a home run?

Dave H. at NFM...buying 5 baby beds for the 'Hepp scoring explosion of 2009'...think Trojan next year

Matt L. at the Wall Mart buying a fire extinguisher...fire hazard of 30 candles

No Option family and friends at tailgate # 6 of 2009 season...eating Jamie and Jose's hot and nuclear hot chili

Brandon K. at Farrell's...waiting for the cleaning crew (Ken) to finish the touch up projects

Jerry D. at Dugger Lake...catching the same plastic 24-inch wide mouth plastic trophy fish he caught last week

Ken K. and Aaron G...hopeful for a birthday cake...and other sweet treats of personal choice

Bill S. at Prairie Downs Casino getting lucky...spending your cumulative winnings from the annual No Option football pool

Oklahoma: 27 Nebraska: 10

Score Prediction - ISU

2009-10-20T20:31:00.001-05:00

Nice job picking TT to win...you suck storo!

Drop your predictions for ISU week like they're hot...

Past Winners:
Wk 1 Rowan (off by 7)
Wk 2 Kovar (off by 3)
Wk 3 Jenna (off by 7)
Wk 4 Dean (off by 13)
Wk 5 Jose Angel Rivera Juarez (off by 6)
Wk 6 Storo (off by 18)

Scenes from TT Tailgate...

2009-10-20T20:27:00.001-05:00

Dean's List

2009-10-19T19:32:00.002-05:00

Our Huskers didn't show up Saturday...disappointing and surprising.

No Option tailgaters did show up...not surprising!

What surprised me this week at No Option?

needing heaters in mid-October (wait until November 21st against KSU)
able to set up and dismantle tailgate in less than 45 minutes each time
visitor from Houston
the number of adults enjoying the hot chocolate treats...wonder why?
ages of tailgaters...youngest 3 years old to the oldest 50 +
Steve M. wearing black...not
Dave H. and Jerry D. discussing the joy of surgical procedures pertaining to knee replacements...not
number of kids Kristi and Tod have...Tod you're the man!
able to find the equipment in the cold weather
text from Iowa State fan (Bill S.) questioning "what the hell is going on in the game" at halftime?

What surprised you...leave a comment.

Nebraska: 31 Iowa State: 14

Score Predictions - Texas Tech

2009-10-12T07:31:00.000-05:00

Drop your predictions for TT week like they're hot...

Past Winners:
Wk 1 Rowan (off by 7)
Wk 2 Kovar (off by 3)
Wk 3 Jenna (off by 7)
Wk 4 Dean (off by 13)
Wk 5 Jose Angel Rivera Juarez (off by 6)

Compliments of Tara...

2009-10-12T07:29:00.000-05:00

Dean's List

2009-10-12T06:42:00.001-05:00

College Football…it’s a new game… “Who would have guessed?”

Who would have guessed that Nebraska would beat Missouri starting the 4th quarter behind by 12 points? Not me…

Who would have guessed we would have 6 inches of snow Saturday morning…in October…during prime time football season…glad we had an off day! Not me…

Who would have guessed the Cubs winning their first playoff series this year (not)? Not me…keep feeding the goat

Who would have guessed that Oklahoma has a better chance of having three losses than Nebraska when we play November 7th? Not me…

Who would have guessed…Mark May showing us some love (Suh)? Not me…

Who would have guessed crazy No Option tailgaters at crazy Waco this year? Not me…we know who you are

Add you’re ‘Who would have guessed?’ questions…

Nebraska: 38 Texas Tech: 21

Written by a sports writer from Louisiana – Lafayette

2009-09-29T22:10:00.001-05:00

This is my 18th season covering Cajuns football. And, for eight years before that, I had the opportunity to broadcast selected games on TV as well.

I've been to nine SEC stadiums. (I'll go to a tenth next season at Georgia.) I've seen the grove at Ole Miss, experienced the Gator Chomp, the Mississippi State cowbells, and been a part of Alabama football in both Birmingham and Tuscaloosa. I've been called "Tigerbait" in Baton Rouge and experienced some pretty good hospitality in South Carolina.

I've said hello to the folks at Illinois and Minnesota. Felt September heat in Tempe, AZ.

Been to Manhattan, Lubbock, Austin, Stillwater and College Station. College Station was probably the best. Folks say "Howdy" when they see you. And they say "welcome."
Haven't been to the Horseshoe, the Big House or Happy Valley. Nor have I seen Touchdown Jesus.

But I've been to College Football Nirvana.

It's located in Lincoln, Nebraska.

From the time we touched down ("Welcome to Lincoln," the police officers doing the escort said) to the time we left the stadium ("Thanks so much for coming, have a safe trip home. We hope you'll come back again") every Cajun fan felt like a guest.
That's right. A guest. Not the opposition...not the enemy....a guest.

Check into the Cornhusker Marriott, not far from campus. Fans of Big Red Nation are already there. Smiles, handshakes....welcome to Lincoln. Good luck tomorrow.
Board the bus for dinner. Arrive at Misty's, Lincoln's famous steakhouse (I mean, you gotta eat a steak, right?). There were about 25 in our party. We had to wait about twenty minutes for them to get everything ready. No problem. As soon as the patrons saw the Cajun gear, they wanted to talk...introduce themselves....welcome to Lincoln....thanks so much for coming. Hope you enjoy the game.....
Is this for real??

And, it continued throughout the evening and into the night. We made lots of friends. We Cajun people make friends pretty easily, but it's even easier when folks want to be friends.

In Lincoln, they all want to be your friend.
Game day is different in Lincoln. They tailgate, sure....but it's tougher because, well, there's just not a lot of tailgating spots. But they do open the soccer field next to the stadium. Families can let the kids roam free. Nebraska radio does a pregame show there. And, a band plays during the commercial breaks.

I did an interview at the soccer field with the Nebraska radio folks. And then, had a pretty good trek to the media entrance. At each gate, the sight was the same. Hundreds lined up, waiting for the gates to open so they could get into the stadium and watch their team warm up.

By the time Nebraska came out, about 45 minutes before kickoff, the stadium was about 65% full. There was no "hey, let's stay outside and pound a few more beers."
Because it was game day. And they came to see football.

By the time the band was ready to come out, 86000 strong were in their seats. They stood and clapped along when the Cornhusker Band played "Fight on Cajuns" to honor their guests. And when the band played "There is no Place Like Nebraska" I knew that the statement was true.

For the first time ever in my years covering the Cajuns, I did not hear a single boo when the Cajuns came out of their tunnel onto their sidelines; in fact, I heard a smattering of applause.

During the game, 86000 cheered as Nebraska rolled. They didn't leave at halftime to go out and start drinking (and remember it was 34-0 at the half). Some were outside, but they had passes to get back in and by the time the second half was ready to kick off, they were all back in their seats.

In the fourth quarter there were STILL over 80000 in the stands. Security keeps an eye out for the sign of alcohol in the stands, which is how trouble starts. If they see alcohol they don't turn a blind eye. After all, college football is about a FAMILY atmosphere.

And when it ended, the fans stayed for another Cornhusker tradition. They applauded the Cajuns as they left the field.

Now you might say...sure, it's easy to clap for someone when you just beat them 55-0. But they do that when their team LOSES. The newspaper on Saturday morning reprinted a handwritten letter from Florida State coach Bobby Bowden after the Seminoles got a hard fought 18-14 win years ago. Yep, the Nebraska fans cheered them as they left.

More of the same post game. There was a young man in a wheelchair where the Cajun players were getting their postgame meal. As each player came out, the young man thanked them for coming and wished them safe travels home. Many of the players stopped to chat for a minute.

Then it was over. And, as the buses left for the airport, the fans that were still there waved and applauded. No one finger salutes. No "you suck" chants. Simply, safe travels, my friends.

If the two teams should play again in the future, plan ahead Cajun Fans. Make the long drive or the relatively short flight. Come in Friday...leave Sunday. And, you will learn what REAL college football atmosphere is about.
Because, trust me.....there is no place like Nebraska.

Scenes from ULL Tailgate...

2009-09-28T18:50:00.001-05:00

Score Prediction - Mizzou

2009-09-27T17:02:00.001-05:00

Nice job Deaner.

Drop your predictions for Mizzou week like they're hot...

Past Winners:
Wk 1 Rowan (off by 7)
Wk 2 Kovar (off by 3)
Wk 3 Jenna (off by 7)
Wk 4 Dean (off by 13)

Scenes from Dugger house during VT game...

2009-09-27T17:00:00.001-05:00

Score Predictions - LA.-LAFAYETTE

2009-09-21T20:37:00.002-05:00

Nice job Jenna.

Drop your predictions for Week 4 like they're hot...

Past Winners:
Wk 1 Rowan (off by 7)
Wk 2 Kovar (off by 3)
Wk 3 Jenna (off by 7)

Dean's List

2009-09-20T20:16:00.002-05:00

A week in review…could of, should of…enough said. The game is over…it’s time to move on. We’re back for the 2009 season...the journey…to have fun, win and to celebrate!!!

Here are some of my memories…of prior fun, wins and memories…

300 Consecutive Sellouts for Nebraska Football…let’s celebrate the memories!!!

Tim G. took me to my first NU vs. OK game in the mid-1980’s…I (not Gail) went to K-Mart (at that time Wal-Mart did not exist) to buy insulated socks…it was so cold sitting in the stands during the game that my pop froze (you are right Jon…not enough alcohol in the pop)
First Nebraska season ticket was issued to Dean L. in the mid-1990’s…section 28, row 42…three rows directly behind a 24” diameter cement support pole (you would think UNL would have smarter engineers to redesign that flaw…maybe some year!)
Halloween night against Texas…the man (Ricky Williams) vs. the boys
Notre Dame…can’t remember if it was the game highlights or Bob F. at the pre-party tailgating
Oklahoma…Mike Stuntz, QB, threw the ball to one of the Heisman winners I think…
Pre-No Option game warm-ups at PO Pears, Side Track, End Zone, Barry’s, etc…

38 Consecutive No Option tailgates for Nebraska Football…let’s celebrate the memories!!!

We have…a blog with predictions, game day menus, pictures, tailgaters of the week, etc…
We have…abundance of beer and refreshments
We have…a glass boot (the beer bongs are in retirement)
We have...tailgaters of all ages (Baby Dugger to ????)
We have...sponsor wall of fame
We have…FUN!!!

Tell us about your memories of Nebraska Football and No Option by adding to the comment tab…

Nebraska: 52 Louisiana-Lafayette: 10

Score Prediction - Va Tech

2009-09-14T21:33:00.001-05:00

Wow, nice pick Kovar. Brandon won with a pick of 36-10.

Drop your predictions for Week 3 like they're hot...

Past Winners:
Wk 1 Rowan (off by 7)
Wk 2 Kovar (off by 3)

Scenes from ASU Tailgate...

2009-09-14T21:29:00.001-05:00

Scenes from FAU Tailgate...

2009-09-07T21:11:00.000-05:00

Let's Hear from You...

2009-09-07T21:01:00.003-05:00

Select your answer to the Week 2 poll.

Use the poll on the right side of the screen...

What Big 12 North team has the best chance to beat NU and win the North?

Score Predictions - Arkansas State

2009-09-07T20:57:00.002-05:00

Congrats to Bennie Muss...errrrr....Bennie Rowan! His prediction of 49-10 was off by 7 pts and was the closest.

Sorry Rowan, i should have never thought Muss was that intelligent.

Drop your predictions for Week 2 like they're hot...

Past Winners:
Wk 1 Rowan (Off by 7)

Dean's List

2009-09-07T10:12:00.002-05:00

The reviews are in...for NO OPTION tailgate FAU vs. NU

Outstanding Awards for Week # 1:

'best ever' game time tailgate supervision...the Duggers

traveling the longest distance...Ben and Sarah (Houston, Texas)

best opening day weather (with 6 more beautiful game days planned for this season)

most improved off season conditioning...Jena (the boot was in good hands)

pre and post game help for the grunt duties...you know who you are...thanks

coming from the shortest distance...tailgate neighbor and his dog (Sam) who slept in his trailer all night

Engineering 101 knowledge for the tent weight and process upgrades...Aaron

Chef Tim and Assistant Chef Ken for their traditional Chef Ramsay like barbeque entree

dependable beer inventory and pre and post game delivery...Jon

new NO OPTION tradition...beat the drum

'best ever' Escape shotgun passenger for directions in the early morning fog...Dave

Mike Gz's favorite team is now the Huskers...not the Cubs...after his visit from Chicago

several non-drinking young females...you know who you are ????? (besides Emily...nice t-shirt)

Areas of Potential Improvement for Week # 2:

absence of early morning fog...Courtney...talk to that weather man to see what he can do!

design a post game exclusive interstate route for NO OPTION fans who arrive in Lincoln @ 7:00am...wished we had some engineers in the group!

buy steel finger guards for Denise to avoid cutting her finger...again...wished we had some medical staff in the group!

Caleb...limit the food and treats...so you don't have to enjoy them again @ 2:00am

Add your comments about the awards or improvements that are note posted...

Nebraska: 45 Arkansas State: 14

The Dean's List...

2009-08-30T12:30:00.002-05:00

By: Dean List

No Option returns for another season...life is good. Season predictions are realistic (8-4), optimistic (9-3) and variance of other ridiculous outliers.

My predictions of…”FUTURE NO OPTION TWEETS”…based upon the newest technology and a past behavior…is to let you know what some of the No Option fans will be doing Opening Day of the 2009 Nebraska season.

• 06:00am sitting here @ Omaha Starbucks waiting for my coffee…Denise
• 06:15am sitting here by the porcelain god and wishing I didn’t have the last 6 drinks last night…thank god I’m not on call today…should have listened to Allison…Brandon
• 06:30am just completed my morning weight lifting exercises…I have to be quicker and stronger…I don’t want to drop the glass boot this year…Jenna
• 07:00am just arrived in Lincoln …weather is sunny, light south wind and 64 degrees…could be golfing…Tim
•07:15am just finished packing the car and headed to Lincoln…what a romantic evening I had last night at Duggerville Lake…Jerry
• 07:30am searching for any expert advice to complete my weekly “Pick’em” contest…hopefully I won’t finish last again…Jose
• 07:45am looking @ the Memorial Stadium West side…die hard fans are eating, drinking, and soaking up the game day atmosphere…better go use the upscale bathrooms before they are unsafe…Gail
• 08:00am waiting in line for the kegs…can’t believe all the people that beat me here this morning…Jon
• 08:15am looking in my bar cabinet for that Winsor bottle…can’t find it…wonder if Jamie or Logan borrowed it…oh well…at least I have two ‘functional’ legs this year…can’t remember…did I send the surgeon(s) a thank you card?...Dave
• 09:15am with Santo for his morning walk…can’t believe the Cubs lost again yesterday…’shit, forgot the bag, oh well’…Aaron
• 09:30am sitting here reading the Des Moines Register Peach section…can’t believe Nebraska has more pre-game coverage than my Clones…Bill
• 09:45am looking in my closet after lifting weights and mowing my yard this morning…can’t decide what color to wear today…red, black or pink…Steve

You get the routine…please write your ‘FUTURE NO OPTION TWEETS’ for the remainder of OPENING DAY in Lincoln…

• 9:30pm Nebraska: 35 Florida Atlantic: 17…Dean

Score Predictions - FAU

2009-08-28T22:48:00.002-05:00

Drop your predictions for Week 1 like they're hot...

For the record...

2009-08-28T22:36:00.002-05:00

Give your season prediction buy putting a W or L next to each game. Copy and paste the schedule in the comments section. Good Luck!

FLOR. ATLANTIC
ARKANSAS STATE
@ VIRGINIA TECH
LA.-LAFAYETTE
@ MISSOURI
TEXAS TECH
IOWA STATE
@ BAYLOR
OKLAHOMA
@ KANSAS
KANSAS STATE
@ COLORADO

2008 Year in Review

2009-08-28T22:31:00.001-05:00

There is No Place Like Nebraska...

2009-08-28T22:29:00.000-05:00

Breaking down the best college football game-day experiences (NBC Sports)...

2009-08-28T22:25:00.001-05:00

http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/32561906/ns/sports-college_football/page/3/

No. 5: Bryant-Denny Stadium, Alabama (SEC)
Never seen more people tailgating in more places than Alabama. Also, I’ve been inside no louder a stadium or seen fans more passionate. Cover model Southern Belles and overweight, pimple-faced freshman males have something in common — they all don replicas of Bear Bryant’s houndstooth hat. I’ll never forget the SEC opener of the ’07 season with “Sweet Home Alabama” blaring on the sound system and 90,000-plus stomping their feet — and kickoff was still 10 minutes away! And when the video board displays inspirational words from the Bear, oh boy. It’s no wonder they’ll be expanding this stadium to more than 100,000-plus soon.

No. 4: Tiger Stadium, LSU (SEC)
Florida may have “The Swamp,” but Death Valley feels like true hell for opposing teams, as LSU fans scream and shout beyond belief. Prepare to lose your hearing here after you’ve eaten and drank more than you ever have before. The fans have plenty of time to prepare to go bonkers as Tiger Stadium mostly hosts night games, enabling the tailgating to be extended down on the Bayou unlike most other venues.

No. 3: Notre Dame Stadium, Notre Dame (Independent)
A timeless setting where no fancy school logo adorns the grass at midfield or the end zones — and no fancy electronic video board displays “fan cam or kiss cam.” Notre Dame is the Wrigley Field of college football, where the sport is so revered the school doesn’t boast a formal homecoming weekend because every game brings alumni back to this special place with its Golden Dome, Touchdown Jesus mural, and the most notable fight song in college athletics.

No. 2: Memorial Stadium, Nebraska (Big 12)
The most loyal, respectful and knowledgeable fans in all of college football, as evidenced by the longest sellout streak in the sport, dating back to 1962. What’s more, this stadium is more than just a sea of red — it’s the most underrated venue in college football for its historical value. For example, in each of its four corners there are mottos to live by, such as “Courage; Generosity; Fairness; Honor; In these are the true awards of manly sport." Or another, just outside the stadium, “through these gates, pass the greatest fans in college football.” Indeed.

No. 1: The service academies — Army, Navy, Air Force
As great as the other 24 are, in my view there are no better settings where history, tradition and uniqueness meet an atmosphere that results in a tingle up the back of your spine or a tear in your eye then at the service academies on game day.

AP Top 25

2009-08-28T22:21:00.001-05:00

1 Florida (58) 0-0 1498
2 Texas (2) 0-0 1424
3 Oklahoma 0-0 1370
4 USC 0-0 1313
5 Alabama 0-0 1156
6 Ohio State 0-0 1113
7 Virginia Tech 0-0 1054
8 Mississippi 0-0 1047
9 Oklahoma State 0-0 989
9 Penn State 0-0 989
11 LSU 0-0 914
12 California 0-0 746
13 Georgia 0-0 714
14 Boise State 0-0 659
15 Georgia Tech 0-0 593
16 Oregon 0-0 587
17 TCU 0-0 521
18 Florida State 0-0 307
19 Utah 0-0 289
20 Brigham Young 0-0 267
21 North Carolina 0-0 261
22 Iowa 0-0 229
23 Notre Dame 0-0 225
24 Nebraska 0-0 207
25 Kansas 0-0 134

THANKS...

2008-11-29T12:53:00.001-06:00

...TO EVERYONE FOR MAKING THE 2008 TAILGATE SEASON THE BEST SEASON EVER! UNTIL AUGUST 2009...CHEERS!

A BIG THANKS TO OUR 2008 SPONSORS!!!

2008-11-29T12:51:00.000-06:00

Scenes from the CU Tailgate...

2008-11-29T12:08:00.001-06:00

For the record - Year in Review

2008-11-29T11:49:00.002-06:00

From the "For the record..." post, Aaron was the only one to correctly predict NU's season. His post from August is given below.

------------------------
8-4.
I wanted to go 9-3 with a win over VT, but here's to modesty.

W 08/30 Western Mich.
W 09/06 San Jose St.
W 09/13 New Mexico St
L 09/27 Virginia Tech
L 10/04 Missouri
L 10/11 @ Texas Tech
W 10/18 @ Iowa State
W 10/25 Baylor
L 11/01 @ Oklahoma
W 11/08 Kansas
W 11/15 @ Kansas St
W 11/28 Colorado
--------------------------------------------

Score Prediction - Year in Review

2008-11-29T11:46:00.002-06:00

The List's Cal Ripken-like streak has been ended. Nice work Kristin!

Past Winners:
Week 1: WMU – Jon List (Off by 9)
Week 2: SJSU – Matt List (Off by 4)
Week 3: NMSU - Matt List (Off by 6)
Week 4: VT – Dean List (Off by 14)
Week 5: Mizzou - Jon List (off by 4)
Week 6: ISU - Dean & Jon List (Off by 17)
Week 7: Baylor - Jon List (Off by 5)
Week 8: KU - Matt & Dean List (Off by 7)
Week 9: CU - Kristin Gzehoviak (Off by 5)

Let's Hear from You...

2008-11-29T11:43:00.001-06:00

I know what most of your reactions will be to this question but...

What will be NU's 2009 regular season record?

Answer in the poll in the lower right hand corner of the screen.

Right after "The Kick"...

2008-11-28T23:41:00.000-06:00

Dean's List

2008-11-25T09:11:00.002-06:00

Thanksgiving list of 'thanks' for No Option 2008

7-4 record, hopeful for a regular season 8-4 record
Denise for the fresh, hot, buttered popcorn @ tailgates
Notre Dame sucks
No Option sponsors for their season contributions
The 3rd (Annual) Dave Hepp knee surgery video for sell
Never assume a NU loss...Texas Tech...so close
Adult pub tables and kid picnic table
Essentially dry weather for all tailgate home dates
Nanci Mayhan's brownies
Gator Bowl & New Year's game day dreams
Space heaters on cold days
Iowa State road trip...Bob, we did stop @ McDonald's...on the way back to Omaha
Callahan is in New York, Pederson is in Pittsburgh, and Cosgrove is just gone...
Steve Mayhan in black
The Cubs...maybe next year
Adult beverages...the Kovar mixes, Gail's Asti, Nanci's margarita machine, etc...
The grill team...Dave, Ken & Tim
The Big-12 North is a weak division
Matt's finished (almost) deck
We only play Oklahoma once this year
Kristi, Jan & family for representing the family @ weddings
Direct Dugger service...PPV games
NU players in consideration for all Big 12 team honors
Chili recipe and catering from Jose and crew
Candy is still looking for her sunglasses...
Endless refreshments (cans and/or kegs) from Jon and crew
Friends, family & work colleague drop-in visits...VT, Michigan, IA State, Kansas, etc...
Randy's Pick'em contest...even though Jon won
A locked & indoor storage for the trailer
Santa Claus is coming to Omaha...to all the good girls and boys
An easy victory over Colorado on senior day...

Nebraska: 42 Colorado: 17

Score Predictions - CU

2008-11-24T20:43:00.001-06:00

Drop your score predictions like their hot! (Put them in the comments section).

Honestly guys, this is sad...and getting sadder...LAST CHANCE TO BEAT THE LISTS!!!

Past Winners:

Week 1: WMU – Jon List (Off by 9)
Week 2: SJSU – Matt List (Off by 4)
Week 3: NMSU - Matt List (Off by 6)
Week 4: VT – Dean List (Off by 14)
Week 5: Mizzou - Jon List (off by 4)
Week 7: ISU - Dean & Jon List (Off by 17)
Week 8: Baylor - Jon List (Off by 5)
Week 9: KU - Matt & Dean List (Off by 7)

Let's Hear from You...

2008-11-24T20:41:00.001-06:00

I know what most of your reactions will be to this question but...

Who is the most hated big 12 coach?

Answer in the poll in the lower right hand corner of the screen.

Scenes from KU Tailgate...

2008-11-24T20:38:00.000-06:00

Dean's List

2008-11-05T06:22:00.002-06:00

It's November...the theme is 'finish strong' so we can continue to build for next year (or decade).

Nebraska, known for it's academic excellence needs to add a few graduate level courses for the football and No Option community...my suggestions are:

1. "Feel the Love"...taught by Professor Pelini with objectives on the balance of enthusiasm, competitiveness and winning. Steve Mayhan has recommended the Lincoln police attend for a demonstration on proper 'taser' techniques to manage out of control behavior.

2. "Football Traditions"...taught by UNL students of the 90's with objectives on how and when to 'rush the field' after a signature win. Our last signature win was... We need a refresher course in the art, timing and safety of post-game celebrations.

3. "Numbers & Trends"...taught by the advanced math department professor with focus on the odds of: Coach Prince and Callahan being 0 - 39 in winning games when trailing @ halftime, Jon List cheating strategies in the weekly Pick'em contest, List family dominance in the weekly NU score prediction, Cubs 100 + years of anticipation of playoff success, etc...

4. "Where's in the Hell are the Mussmann's"...taught by either the geography professors because of their lack of correspondence this year.

5. "The Fine Art of Interviewing with the Goal of Not Getting A Job Despite the Pressures from the Spouse"...taught by Professor Jenna K. so that Ryan K. can continue to support the family and Jenna can enjoy some non-credit community courses for fun, socialization, etc...

6. "Advanced Wii Games" taught by Professor Dave H. and his team of orthopedic surgeons

What graduate level classes do you recommend?

Score Predictions - Kansas

2008-11-02T16:40:00.001-06:00

Drop your score predictions like their hot! (Put them in the comments section).

Honestly guys, this is sad...and getting sadder.

Past Winners:

Week 1: WMU – Jon List (Off by 9)
Week 2: SJSU – Matt List (Off by 4)
Week 3: NMSU - Matt List (Off by 6)
Week 4: VT – Dean List (Off by 14)
Week 5: Mizzou - Jon List (off by 4)
Week 7: ISU - Dean & Jon List (Off by 17)
Week 8: Baylor - Jon List (Off by 5)

Let's Hear from You...

2008-11-02T16:37:00.003-06:00

I know what most of your reactions will be to this question but...

Who has been the MVP so far this year?

Answer in the poll in the lower right hand corner of the screen.

Scenes from the Baylor Tailgate...

2008-11-02T16:26:00.000-06:00

Great video from practice...

2008-11-01T15:34:00.001-05:00

Post of Huskerpedia Threads:
Cell phone video supposedly after a practice this last week....Former Husker football Special Teams Captain/current Asst. Strength Coach Brandon Rigoni takes on NU Wrestling Head Coach Mark Manning on the football field, to win a bet. Rigoni bet Manning that from 5 yards out, he could score on him from 5 yards out 5 out of 5 times. They strapped on the pads to find out. This is cell phone video, but it is priceless. The football, basketball, and wrestling teams are in attendance, as are some other student-athletes. ohh.. and Tom Osborne presents a trophy to the winner. Unity within the Athletic department.

Dean's List

2008-10-21T11:57:00.002-05:00

We are half-way through the 2008 season (counting anticipated bowl game participation)...

What do we have to be thankful for?

1. Baylor's 11:30am game time start vs. 8:00pm of prior home games
2. Was that fog, smog or marijuana clouds over the stadium last weekend...where's Eric (inside joke from the Streff family)?
3. The 'third time is a charm'...good luck Dave Hepp on your third knee surgery this Friday
4. Dave Hepp's extra ticket...he is designated to the 'injured reserve list' for the balance of the season
5. Nebraska football player skills are improving...except the punters...just kick the damn ball
6. The buzzing ring finally stopped in my head after the charter bus ride...was it just me that heard it?
7. I can bring 'sample meds' for the 'WACO crazies'
8. Ron Prince is still getting paid to coach at Kansas State
9. I got to see the 'new movie releases' last week..."Old School" & "Animal House"
10. The bus toilet never over flowed...thanks guys for using the 'outside facilities'
11. Adequate Gas-X supply after Jamie and Jose's chili...enough said
12. Glass boot was not broken this weekend...thanks Jenna...nice hands
13. Sunny and 60 degrees this weekend?
14. Does anybody know the tie-breaker rule(s) if NU, Kansas and Missouri finish 4-3 in the Big 12 North?
15. Bill Streff and family for organizing the football game before Cindy's 38th birthday party...nice parking spots.

What do you have to be thankful for?

Score Predictions - Baylor

2008-10-20T20:09:00.002-05:00

Drop your score predictions like their hot! (Put them in the comments section).

Honestly guys, this is sad. We are now tying on wins

Past Winners:

Week 1: WMU – Jon List (Off by 9)
Week 2: SJSU – Matt List (Off by 4)
Week 3: NMSU - Matt List (Off by 6)
Week 4: VT – Dean List (Off by 14)
Week 5: Mizzou - Jon List (off by 4)
Week 7: ISU - Dean & Jon List (Off by 17)

Let's Hear from You...

2008-10-20T20:05:00.001-05:00

NU has 5 regular season games left...how many will they win?

Scenes from the ISU Tailgate...

2008-10-20T20:04:00.001-05:00

Score Predictions - ISU

2008-10-13T18:08:00.001-05:00

Drop your score predictions like their hot! (Put them in the comments section).

So far its a List sweep...come on suckas!

Past Winners:

Week 1: WMU – Jon List (Off by 9)
Week 2: SJSU – Matt List (Off by 4)
Week 3: NMSU - Matt List (Off by 6)
Week 4: VT – Dean List (Off by 14)
Week 5: Mizzou - Jon List (off by 4)

Always a classic...

2008-10-02T07:37:00.001-05:00

Matt - After reading your score prediction, I had to post this.

Score Predictions - Mizzou

2008-10-01T19:26:00.000-05:00

Drop your score predictions like their hot! (Put them in the comments section).

Past Winners:

Week 1: WMU – Jon List (Off by 9)
Week 2: SJSU – Matt List (Off by 4)
Week 3: NMSU - Matt List (Off by 6)
Week 4: VT – Dean List (Off by 14)

Dean's List

2008-10-01T13:58:00.002-05:00

The year to date in review for the Huskers and No Option...

Underrated...not...at best # 8 the the Big 12 and #4 in the North Division

Six (6) win season...realistic, hopeful, wishful, dreaming, etc...

Plenty of cold beer...week # 1 was a close call but the rapid response team answered the call

Bo...easily excited both for the highs and lows

Pre-season team strength...offensive team...not to date

Tailgate barbeque's...do the chef hats make the food taste better?

Best late-hit...Suh in a landslide...the 2007 defense was never tough enough to get a late-hit

The No Option Road Trip to Ames...could be a repeat of our Lawrence trip last year...a fun trip but aweful football

Most surprising NU players...Glenn on defense, Helu on offense and Swift on special teams

Most problematic injury...Turner

Most surprising No Option supporter...'Santo'

The best camouflage...TO...where are you... explain why Baylor is not the homecoming game opponent? ...numerous late game starts ...not being able to see the big screen from my seat

Most disappointed fans...will it be the the Nebraska fans with a 3-3 record or Cub fans with the continued goat curse intact...

Best game of the year...playing Colorado for our 6th win to gain bowl eligibility

Worst pick...Vegas line of Missouri by 10 +/-...should be 24 +

My prediction: Huskers: 17 Tigers: 45

Let's Hear from You...

2008-09-29T20:29:00.001-05:00

Let's Hear from You...Scroll down and fill out the poll on the right side screen. This week:

How many points will Mizzou win by?

Scenes from Va Tech Tailgate...

2008-09-29T20:16:00.002-05:00

Margarita Man - This Week

2008-09-24T11:59:00.001-05:00

The Margarita Man will make his 2008 debut this weekend for the VA Tech game!

Score Predictions - Virginia Tech

2008-09-22T20:40:00.001-05:00

Let's Hear from You...

2008-09-22T20:37:00.001-05:00

Let's Hear from You...Scroll down and fill out the poll on the right side screen. This week:

How should the RB carries be distributed?

Dean's List

2008-09-22T11:01:00.002-05:00

When is 'Bo' going to pull a 'Woody'?

What is the over/under number of games before 'Bo' pulls a 'Woody'?...10, 20, 30, ?

What is a 'Woody'? Goggle U-tube for Woody Hayes...for Football History 101.

Who is going to be the recipient of 'Bo' pulling a 'Woody'? Will it be a media representative, a heckling fan, a NU player not giving 100%, an opposing coach running up the score, a game official making a questionable call, an opposing player, etc...? How will TO respond to the 'Woody' incident?

In games to date we have seen Bo called for an unsportsmanship like penalty called in a bowl game, demonstrating to Coach Synder that he was # 1, calling a time out with 2 seconds left in a game in which he was winning by 20 + points, etc...

Woody Hayes was intense...Bo is intense...both demand effort and excellence on the field.

Let's keep winning so the ghost of 'Woody' remains buried...and our coach is not suspended by TO, the Big 12 or the NCAA.

NU: 27 Virgina Tech: 24

Bye weeks suck, Hurricanes blow, and the Huskers are...

2008-09-20T21:35:00.011-05:00

UNDERRATED. That's right we're underrated. But for once it's us (well actually you) who are the egregious underraters. The media is in love with Mizzou, Kansas, TT, and OU (with good reason), and sure, to the naked eye Nebraska does not appear to be in that class. But you? You have insight, intel, and season tickets. So why am I the only one who recognizes that Nebraska is going to smash expectations? Now I ain't no masterrater and it's possible I've been guilty a time or two of overrating...but that's neither here nor there.

Why I like what I see:
1) The offense takes what opposing defenses gives them. THIS IS HUGE. It's definitely reason numero uno why you are wrong and I am right. I'm sure we all remember the days of Callahan spewing propaganda about establishing the run. But the only thing Billy successfully established was that he was horse-shit at play-calling. Even my shi-tzu Wrigley (GO CUBS GO) recognized we couldn't run against USC in the Coliseum, but did we adjust the game plan? Rhetorical. That's why it was freaking sweet to see us pass, pass, pass in games 1 and 2 when opponents would stack the box (of course seeing our ground game clicking in game 3 was very comforting).

2) The Defense will get better every game. And we are already light years ahead of last....eehhhh oowwlwaaa huulll yhoouw wlwwaa...sorry I just pictured Cosgrove's retarded ass and threw up in my mouth. So, yeah...we're already ahead of last year. How sweet is it to have a competent defensive coordinator? Yeah it's sweet.

3) The option game. Honestly this has the potential to become a huge threat. I truly think it could be more than just a novelty wrinkle and could evolve into a game changing element that makes defenses have to prepare to defend everything (especially next year with our hotshot QB recruit). I just know T.O. is going to have a hand in developing it. Sure, Ron Brown knows what's up, but Dr. Tom is the Bill Brasky of the option attack. I'm sorry...my nipples are getting hard just thinking about this.

In summation, most of you think we win 7 or 8 or 9 games. You are wrong. We beat VT, ISU, Baylor, KU, KSU and CU. And at least 1 more (my guess is TT). That's 10 wins. And we can beat Mizzou and OU. Not saying we will win or even keep them close...but winning is a possibility. The Big 12 North may even be in play. Mizzou and OU are better than us and should beat us. But we won't be pushovers and won't be under the radar much longer.

VT prediction:
Our coming out party - NU 30 VT 10

Scenes from the New Mexico State Tailgate...

2008-09-14T13:38:00.001-05:00

Score Predictions - New Mexico State

2008-09-09T21:04:00.002-05:00

Drop your score predictions like their hot! (Put them in the comments section).

Past Winners:

Week 1: WMU – Jon List (Off by 9)

Week 2: SJSU – Matt List (Off by 4)

Let's Hear from You...

2008-09-09T20:58:00.001-05:00

Let's Hear from You...Scroll down and fill out the poll on the right side screen. This week:

Who is your most hated Big 12 team?

Dean's List

2008-09-09T08:29:00.002-05:00

Week # 3 and bring on New Mexico State Aggies ... what did I learn from game # 2?

1. A win is a win...but it was ugly....2 - 0 and with the other Big 12 teams smiling
2. Problems...the same...questions about our tackling, running game, play selection, etc...
3. Enough said...

How do we get better? My suggestion...let's look at 'our house' first...

"No Option" tailgate in review after two weeks. My thoughts...TO and BO have used game officials in daily team practices. Should we designate a weekly "No Option" tailgate official for rule violations?

In my biased and strictly unofficial role I can identify numerous actual and/or potential "No Option" penalties...

1. The trailer was late for tailgating set-up time# 1...it will never happen again
2. Emergency beer runners were needed for game # 1 due to underestimated consumption
3. Jan Braun went to a family wedding...15 yards
4. Ken Kovar was scheduled to work during game # 2...next time call in sick
5. Ben Mussman paid over face value for a game # 1 ticket
6. Kevin and parking managements lack of upgrading to HDTV satellite dishes...

I need you help to identify actual or potential penalties...let's hear from you!!!

Scenes from the SJSU Tailgate...

2008-09-08T21:07:00.000-05:00

Tailgaters of the Week - SJSU

2008-09-08T21:05:00.001-05:00

Tim & Ken

For dominating the grill. Excellent kabobs guys.

Score Prediction - San Jose State

2008-09-03T21:44:00.001-05:00

What is your prediction for Saturday's game?

Leave your score in the comments section.

Dean's List

2008-09-03T19:46:00.002-05:00

What did we enjoy, learn and laugh about after Game # 1:

1. A win is a win...1 - 0
2. No Option supporters were thirsty...numerous beer runners are to be thanked
3. Dave Hepp is better on his 3rd knee...welcome back
4. Is there a 'Doctor" in the house?
5. The No Option Bo-liever Sponsors are awesome...thanks for your contributions
6. Jail time for...the trailer thieves
7. A Bo-eautiful sunshine and warm day for tailgate # 1 of 8
8. Tim Gz and his apprentice chefs are ready for prime time
9. Jan Braun was a no-show...apparently unwilling to do the 'walk of shame'
10. Nancy Mayhan for the traditional 'N' brownies and authentic NU football
11. NU students still can't count...they sit wherever TO tells them (nose bleed section)
12. No Option 2nd annual bus trip to Ames is taking reservations...'Get-R-Done' before you lose your seat
13. 2008 projected record: 6-6 is hopeful, 7-5 is dreaming, 8-4 would be a miracle
14. Jon and Jose...Rule # 1...you can run out of food but not beer
15. Denise and Vicki are on the parking patrol for illegally parked vehicles and 'out of order' facilities
16. Sarah...we hope Ben remembers the 2008 opener...the 2007 opener was a rough day and night
17. Fresh, hot, buttered popcorn, washer game, pub tables, etc... are a welcomed addition
18. Tailgate set-up and tear-down volunteers are always welcomed...thanks for the game # 1 help
19. Welcome tailgate virgin...Alyssa L....telephone number...555.1212
20. HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Abby Kellen...# 6

Tailgaters of the Week - WMU

2008-09-01T13:52:00.002-05:00

Ben & Sara Mussmann

Ben - For making the 14 hour drive with 2 speeding tickets and a warning & for giving in to the ticket scalpers to make it into the game.

Sara - For breaking out the beer bong early & often.

Update: 2nd ANNUAL “NO OPTION” ROAD TRIP

2008-09-01T11:35:00.001-05:00

Only 16 spots remain open for this year's road trip game!!!

Contact Jon or Dean asap to reserve your spot.

Let's Hear from You...

2008-09-01T11:34:00.000-05:00

After the first game, what is your biggest concern?

Let's hear your answer...fill out the poll in the bottom right hand side of the screen.

Scenes from the Western Michigan Tailgate...

2008-09-01T11:28:00.002-05:00

Score Prediction - Western Michigan

2008-08-23T11:41:00.001-05:00

What is your score prediction for the game?

For the record....

2008-08-22T17:16:00.003-05:00

Put your season prediction in writing. What games do you think the Huskers will win or lose?

Copy and paste the schedule in the comments section and mark every game with a W or L.

08/30 Western Mich.
09/06 San Jose St.
09/13 New Mexico St
09/27 Virginia Tech
10/04 Missouri
10/11 @ Texas Tech
10/18 @ Iowa State
10/25 Baylor
11/01 @ Oklahoma
11/08 Kansas
11/15 @ Kansas St
11/28 Colorado

Dean's List NO OPTION Ramblings…

2008-08-18T12:40:00.002-05:00

We're back in 2008…the Nebraska way (according to print, blog writers, and NU websites).

Nebraska fans have been encouraged, invited and suggested to forget about the 2007 season and the entire Billy Callahan era...it was a disaster with plenty of blame to be shared.

Prior Nebraska themes have been: Unfinished Business, Hit or Miss, etc…

My suggested theme for Nebraska's 2008 Season is: "Bling vs. Ring"

Easy…are we about 'the show' or about 'the championship trophies'?

The 90's…we were the "Ring"…Big 12 and National Champion trophies were too many to count, the Wall of Fame for outstanding academic achievement, 9 + wins per season, 34 + consecutive bowl games, 60-4 record, etc…

Starting in 2003…we were the "Bling"… 4 and 5 star athletes, recruitment websites, new facilities, professional coaches, throat slash, _ucking Hillbillies, non-contact practices, cool-mist machines on the sidelines, 0-18 when NU was behind at the half-time score, etc…

In 2003, I was influenced by the print press and websites. I was a supporter and a believer of the "Bling" show.

In 2008, I am a supporter…show me the "Rings" in 4 years…and I will be a believer. If Nebraska qualifies for a bowl game in 2008…we can be proud of our "PROMISE RING".

My early predictions for 2008 and our 7-5 season:

08/30 Western Mich. Win 24-17
09/06 San Jose St. Win
09/13 New Mexico St. Win
09/27 Virginia Tech Loss
10/04 Missouri Loss
10/11 @ Texas Tech Loss
10/18 @ Iowa State Win
10/25 Baylor Win
11/01 @ Oklahoma Loss
11/08 Kansas Win
11/15 @ Kansas St. Loss
11/28 Colorado Win

New Additions

2008-08-17T13:55:00.002-05:00

Some of the new items at the tailgate this year (a shady winter storage facility led to the need for some replacements)...

- 2 Pub tables
- Washers
- TV
- Stereo/Speakers
- Grill
- Microwave
- Etc.

Let's Hear from You...

2008-08-17T12:03:00.001-05:00

What will be Nebraska's regular season record in 2008?

Let's hear your answer...fill out the poll in the bottom right hand side of the screen.

Scenes from 2007

2008-08-17T12:01:00.000-05:00

Welcome 2008! (that is....until week 4)

2008-08-06T20:58:00.002-05:00

2008 Preview Video

Goodbye 2007 - A Year to Forget!

2008-08-06T20:52:00.001-05:00

2007 Season in Review

2nd ANNUAL “NO OPTION” ROAD TRIP

2008-08-06T20:21:00.002-05:00

It’s football season in Nebraska …hopefully a better year than 2007!

“NO OPTION” Husker fans and their friends can sign up and pre-pay for the 2008 Road Trip to Ames , Iowa

Game Information:
Date: Saturday, October 18, 2008
Game Time: TBA
Location: Ames , Iowa

Travel Information:
Cost: $ 25 per person for 52 paid fans (or)
$ 30 per person for 42 paid fans (or)
$ 40 per person for 32 paid fans (or)
$ 50 per person for 25 paid fans
* Bus ticket is non-refundable
* Arrow Bus Line chartered motor coach for maximum 55 seats
* Travel time: 2 + hour trip with adequate ‘refreshment and restroom’ breaks
* Departure from 84th & Center approx. 6 hours prior to scheduled game time
* Departure from Ames approximately 15 minutes after Husker win

Ticket Information:
On your own

Food and Beverages:
Cost: NA Due: NA
* Individual food/beverage of choice
* No glass containers
* No kegs allowed

Sign-Up, Payment Contact Person or Questions:
Jon List
Dean List

Under new coach Pelini, Nebraska gets back to basics

2008-08-06T20:13:00.001-05:00

By Steve Wieberg, USA TODAY
LINCOLN, Neb. — Nobody here is asking: Will he?

Locals have embraced Bo Pelini, and believed in him, from the day in December that Nebraska's 40-year-old football coach was introduced. He's hard-working and straight-shooting, a fine choice to represent a sleeves-rolled, cut-the-bull state. He understands what once made the Cornhuskers great — smash-mouth sensibilities and homegrown talent — and expectations are that he will make them great again.

The only detectable question being: How soon?

Pelini smiles. Fall camp opens Monday, when Nebraska's opener against Western Michigan will be 26 days away. "These days, they're never going to be patient," he says. "I think there's some sense of realism, but I don't know.

"I know where we are. I know where we want to get to, and I think I know how to get there. It's going to take some time. There's a lot that needed to be done, and it's not as much X- and O-wise. … It just takes time to heal so many wounds."
FIND MORE STORIES IN: Ohio State | Nebraska | Michigan State | Oakland Raiders | Bowl Championship Series | Cornhuskers | Ball State | Bill Callahan | Western Michigan | Alamo Bowl | Tom Osborne | Frank Solich | Bo Pelini | Glover | Alberts | Blackshirts

On defense, alone.

There was a time when the Blackshirts, as Nebraska's starting defensive unit is nicknamed, featured names such as Glover, Alberts and Wistrom. They collected All-America plaques and their teams piled up conference and national championships. But they were a tattered and beaten bunch a year ago, surrendering more yards, touchdowns and points — with fewer sacks and forced turnovers — than any other defense had in Nebraska's 117-year football-playing history.

They allowed Ball State 610 yards. Missouri 606. Kansas gained 572 and scored an unfathomable 76 points.

"The low point?" linebacker Barry Turner says. "After every game. … It gives you a sick feeling."

It's no coincidence that, among other qualities that made him attractive to Nebraska, Pelini is a defensive deity. He oversaw the LSU unit that forced three turnovers and collected five sacks in a rout of Ohio State in the Bowl Championship Series title game and ranked as the nation's third-best defense overall last season. Pelini was the Tigers defensive coordinator for three years.

Nebraskans, including coaching icon-turned-athletics director Tom Osborne, recalled one earlier season Pelini spent with the Huskers. It was in 2003, when he signed on as defensive coordinator under the destined-to-be-fired Frank Solich.

Pelini's defense gave up almost 65 fewer yards and 9½ fewer points a game than Nebraska did the previous year and more than doubled the number of turnovers it forced, from 21 to a school-record-tying 47. When Solich was let go after the regular season, Pelini stepped in as interim coach and oversaw a grinding, 17-3 win against Michigan State in the Alamo Bowl.

He was a candidate for the head coaching job the school eventually handed to former Oakland Raiders coach Bill Callahan, who lasted four middling to miserable years before he was ousted last November after the Huskers finished 5-7.

"Was I prepared then? I don't know; I was a head coach for a month. I thought I was," says Pelini, who signed a five-year contract paying $1.1 million annually. "I'm a lot more prepared now."

Trying to dig out

Nebraska's hole is deeper now.

College football's fourth-winningest program captured three national championships in four years in the mid-1990s and owns five titles overall. But the Huskers have gone eight years without so much as a conference crown, and last season was particularly ugly. They gave up an average of 37.9 points and lost six of their final seven games.

The team lost confidence. By the end, it seemed to have little fight.

"People just lost their composure," senior linebacker Phillip Dillard says. "It's one of the weirdest things I've ever seen.

"This staff won't allow it. There's not even a question."

Pelini is reluctant to share his diagnosis of the collapse.

"A lot of things were just completely on the other side of the fence from where I am in all my beliefs," he finally says. "I do know this: They're good kids. They want to be coached.

"The stuff on the football field will take care of itself. It's everything else that leads up to that. Accountability. Discipline. Unselfish attitude, guys looking out for each other, the team first. That wasn't here."

He made it clear to his team from the start: This is how you'll play, fast and fevered and nonstop — the way you saw LSU play on television in January. Close to a couple dozen of you will have to get leaner. Everybody will have to get smarter. Buy in or here's the door out.

Nobody took it.

"Having a coach who's won a national championship," says Turner, who took off 10 or so of his 265 pounds, "I figure this is the right way to go."

The Huskers return six defensive starters, including Turner and the rest of the four-man line but no linebackers. With the physical and philosophical changes — blitzing from every angle and relentless aggression as opposed to a more reactive approach during the Callahan regime — recasting may mean little.

Average weight on the line is down almost 30 pounds, to 280. Dillard, who started two games at linebacker as a sophomore last season, dropped more than 30 pounds to get to 238.

"You think you can play at a certain weight," Dillard says. "I feel much better after practice. I'm a lot faster, quicker, more explosive."

Help at linebacker is expected from converted running back Cody Glenn. Cornerback Armando Murillo and safety Larry Asante are potential playmakers in the secondary after starting a year ago straight out of junior college.

The Huskers offense is of less concern, returning quarterback Joe Ganz, 1,000-yard rusher Marlon Lucky and experience on a line that averages 310 pounds.

Confidence grows

In drills and scrimmages the next 3½ weeks, the offensive unit will take daily measure of the retooled defense.

"We've got a great O-line, a good quarterback, a lot of good skill guys. And when spring started, they were moving the ball on us," says Carl Pelini, Bo's older brother and Nebraska's defensive coordinator. "There was a time those first five or six practices when they weren't sure how it was going to go.

"But then, it changed. Our guys started playing with the techniques we wanted them to play with. Those practices were physical, and they were hard-fought. The confidence started to come."

Of course, defending against the Big 12 will be another matter.

The younger Pelini is hardly cowed.

"I haven't been in this conference in awhile, but I know what it takes to play good defense," Bo says. "My track record speaks for itself on that side of the ball."

It certainly spoke to the man who hired him.

Osborne, 71, who retired from coaching after winning the last of three national titles in four years in 1997, took over as AD as the football season was unraveling and fractiousness in the state was growing last October. He replaced Steve Pedersen, who'd hired Callahan and handed him a new contract last September.

"Bo," Osborne says, "comes across as a guy who doesn't engage in a lot of double-talk and has a good work ethic. There's a feeling he's going to get the team to play hard, that there'll be a lot of passion."

To that, Osborne adds a note of caution: "There's somewhat of a renewed sense of optimism and hope. But they got beat down enough that they're going to need some success on the field to really get back. We'll just see how it plays out. … We'll know more before too long."

THANK GOD ITS OVER!!!!!

2007-11-24T04:46:00.001-06:00

What a horrible experience.

First I want to appologize for not blogging on a regular basis. In my defense, I still dont know what blogging is. But seriously, for me it gets to be work after a while. I hate work. Much rather slack. Also, this season blew goats.

Second, please get rid of the "There is no place like Nebraska" music that starts up automatically. It is always anoying and sometimes startling. Maybe try the tunnel walk music or the fight song. (or maybe just some peace and quite) Or maybe just keep the current music and say "fuck mussmann, he is a loser". Any of those is fine with me, but I suggest tunnel walk music.

Third, (I only really had 2 points, but was taught waybackwhen that you needed 3 points in an argument)...let's hire Bo Pelini. I would rather have a good defense and suck than a good offense and suck. This season was so fucking embarrasing that I actually miss...never mind. I won't even say that drunkards name aloud.

TO is God. Bow down bitches.

THANKS...

2007-11-11T18:02:00.000-06:00

...EVERYONE FOR A GREAT 2007 SEASON OF TAILGATING. SEE YOU IN 2008!

Scenes from KSU Tailgate...

2007-11-11T18:01:00.000-06:00

The Dean's List

2007-11-01T06:25:00.000-05:00

Is there a Husker game this weekend? Does anybody know...or worse...care

I think I will go hunting...
I think I will go to work...
I think I will wash the car...
I think I will go golfing...
I think I will do some yard work...
I think I will go shopping...not

No Option makes it easy...we will be enjoying our 1st Annual No Option Road Trip to Lawrence, Kansas. Arrow Stage Lines is providing transportation to the upcoming charter trip, Jon and Aaron are providing the entertainment and the No Option tailgaters and their friends will be providing the fun...there are still a few seats available...if interested call Dean or Jon

I think there might be a game in Kansas that day....Go Huskers

Kansas: 42 Nebraska: 10 Losing streak: 4 and counting

NU vs. KU Score Predictions...

2007-10-30T11:05:00.001-05:00

Drop them like their hot...

The Dean's List

2007-10-24T18:01:00.000-05:00

How many more weeks do I need to write positive comments about Nebraska...

The good news...we only lose by 21 this weekend. Texas: 35 NU: 14
Score at halftime: Texas: 28 NU: 0

Does Coach Callahan and staff finally make those second half adjustments? Does Coach Callahan continue his "excellent job in every area"?

Hell no...the message sent all the Big 12 coaches earlier his year was to:
1. secure the win in the first half...(just a fyi...when Nebraska is behind @ halftime they will not win the game because they are 0-18 + since Coach Callahan has been in charge).
2. don't run up the score in the second half to make Coach Callahan look bad or he might get fired..hint...they want Coach Callahan to be Nebraska's coach to enhance their chance to win the coming years
3. let NU score in the final minutes to make the final score more respectable
4. make positive statements that Nebraska 'played hard' and 'played with heart'...again to enhance a non-coaching change at Nebraska
5. do not make throat gestures or make rude "f_____" statements about the opposing fans

I didn't believe the message was legit until...the "Coach of the Year" Pinkel ran up the score in their game against Nebraska in the second half, ran a fake field goal in the fourth quarter, had QB cry-baby nose-picker call out Coach Cos high school defense game plan, etc...again proving that Coach Pinkel will screw things up despite having a good understanding of the plan...

Go Huskers...let's hope the NU vs. TX game is only on regional coverage...with a late feed due to a triple overtime 11:30am game

Go Kansas...beat Missouri, Colorado, Kansas State

Out,

The Big 11 and Nebraska...

NU vs. Texas Predictions...

2007-10-21T14:15:00.002-05:00

Will this season ever end?

Scenes from the aTm Tailgate...

2007-10-21T14:15:00.001-05:00

Cally's Time is Coming to an End...

2007-10-18T19:05:00.000-05:00

New book chronicles fall of NU football
Johnny Perez and Luke Nichols
Daily Nebraskan

Editor's Note: Jonathan Crowl is a sports reporter for the Daily Nebraskan. His responsibilities include coverage of the Nebraska football team. All of the reporting and writing for his book, "The Nebraska Way," was done independent of his role as a Daily Nebraskan reporter. He provided a copy of the book to the Daily Nebraskan in advance of its publication.

A book written by a University of Nebraska-Lincoln student charges that the recent decline in the success of Nebraska football can be attributed to the abandonment of cultural values that once gave the program strength.

The book, "The Nebraska Way," was written by Jonathan Crowl, a senior English major, and it devotes substantial discussion to the past half century of Nebraska's storied football program.

But several chapters contain accounts of animosity, frustration and alienation within the Athletic Department during the tenures of former athletic director Steve Pederson and NU Coach Bill Callahan.

The book also includes an account of profane criticism from Callahan toward former football coach Tom Osborne, who was described as "trying to run things from Washington" during his tenure in Congress.

Osborne was named NU's interim athletic director after Pederson was fired this week.

Using several sources, Crowl also discusses the firing of former football coach Frank Solich, the hiring of Callahan, changes to the team's walk-on program and changes in the management style of the team and the Athletic Department.

The book should be available in some bookstores by early November and will be published by the independent publisher iUniverse Inc.

Its foreword was written by former head football trainer Doak Ostergard, who Crowl relied on heavily as a source.

Ostergard joined the Athletic Department in 1984 and was fired abruptly in February 2007.
Ostergard said the main purpose of the book was to educate people on the qualities of the football program and speak on the way "business has been done recently."

"We need to try and define what that Nebraska way really was," Ostergard said in an interview with the Daily Nebraskan. "From the outside, people can't understand it, and from the inside, people can't explain it."

Crowl's book seeks to identify how a sparsely populated, flat state in the middle of the country can generate a powerful football program, Ostergard said.

"Some people have taken the approach that, well, the football team has shaped the character of the state," Ostergard said. "But I think in the book here it's the other way around. I think the program was shaped by the culture of the state.

"That's why people are so passionate about it - no matter where you are in the state, that was something you could identify with."

Ostergard told Crowl he was originally impressed with Callahan's attempts to learn the culture of Nebraska football when he was first hired, but several incidents forced his opinion to deteriorate.

Some of Crowl's accounts - mostly from Ostergard - indicate that Callahan became disconnected with the state, its traditions and the history of its football program.

In one instance, Ostergard recalled a meeting with Callahan where the coach voiced his frustration over an article printed in a local newspaper.

"F-ing people need to get a life," Ostergard quoted Callahan as saying in the book.

In the book, Ostergard continues to quote Callahan:

"Why don't they go read a book or get lost in the Sandhills? I'm going to get me a real newspaper. I'm going to read The New York Times."

Callahan also grew impatient with former coach Osborne, Ostergard told Crowl.

After a phone conversation with the former coach, who was serving in Washington as a congressman, Ostergard said Callahan referred to Osborne as "a crusty old f-."

NU's Sports Information Office said Callahan was not available to return calls seeking comment about the book's content Wednesday because of numerous staff meetings that were scheduled.

During a short press conference following Wednesday's team practice, Callahan said his administration had maintained commitment to Nebraska's traditions.

"We've done a lot of positive things that added to the traditions of what Nebraska's all about," Callahan said. "We do understand Big Red football."

"It really comes down to one thing, and that's winning," Callahan added.

Crowl also wrote about the decline in the Athletic Department's relationship with the public.

When Pederson took over, he began to close himself off from people he didn't want to talk to, while tightening media and stadium access, Crowl said in an interview.

"I mean, security down there is on steroids compared to what it used to be," he said.

The new atmosphere was noticed by former players as well, including Mike Minter, a former NU and NFL player who Crowl quoted in the book.

"It was starting to be a compound, as opposed to the stadium," Minter told the Daily Nebraskan. "It felt like a family atmosphere, (but) it started to feel more like a corporate atmosphere in the past five years.

"Now it's like Fort Knox."

A former employee Crowl quotes anonymously in the book said the environment inspired two running jokes among the department's staff: "Everything's great," and "Let me see what Steve thinks."

Crowl also discusses changes made in the team's walk-on policy.

During Osborne's tenure, Crowl said, anywhere from one-half to one-third of the Cornhuskers' travel squad would be composed of walk-ons.

After Callahan took the program's reins, he adjusted the walk-on program in an effort to reduce the roster's size, Crowl wrote.

Said Minter: "A lot of kids waited to walk on, then three years into the program they become a starter - your team is really made on your role players, not your superstars."

Callahan said he was a "firm believer in the walk-on program" after Wednesday's practice.

The book, which also speculates on why Ostergard was fired and quotes several other former players, ends with a letter written by Ben Kingston, a fullback from the class of 1999, sent to Pederson on Feb. 19, 2007.

One statement in the letter reads, "I can honestly say, based on my conversations with the former players, coaches, etc., that we now feel that the 'Nebraska' we knew, the character that made this family great, has been lost … at least for now."

1st Annual "No Option" Road Trip

2007-10-18T07:17:00.001-05:00

The 1st Annual "No Option" Road Trip has open seats on the Arrow Bus Line motor coach for the day trip to Lawrence, KS on November 3, 2007. The cost is only $ 30 per person. Contact Dean (980.1697) or Jon (417.5368) if interested and/or want more details.

Rumor: TO will be on the bus to sign autographs and answer sensitive questions

Muss and Jon convincing T.O. to comeback, you're welcome...

2007-10-17T21:09:00.000-05:00

The Dean's List

2007-10-17T06:03:00.000-05:00

From a confidential source...

"Rumor now, he will be permanent AD. Like Damon Benning said yesterday, be careful what you wish for, you might get it".

Just a quick review of a few prior non-coaching TO decisions that might be questionable...

1. Hand-picked Coach Frank as his replacement...
2. Picked Coach Nelson to help with the defense and recruit Texas...
3. Getting Nancy and his picture taken at a tailgate party with Ben Muss, Jon L and Matt H...
4. Resistent to change...loyality vs. ???
5. Lack of prior proactive action in the NU family dispute...
6. Supported Pederson's selection as AD five years ago...

Did NU voters know that the AD position was 'pending' for TO when they chose not to vote for him in our recent election (governor)?

Again...from a confidential source...the most important question...

"My fear is TO brings back the option….which forces the No Option tailgating group to change names…NOWESTCO??

out, (literally)

Steve

He's Baaaaaaaaack!!!!

2007-10-16T17:13:00.000-05:00

- Get Your Own

NU vs. aTm score predictions...

2007-10-15T20:53:00.001-05:00

This could be ugly...