Big 12: Mike McNeill
Big 12 performances in the Senior Bowl
January, 31, 2011
1/31/11
10:00
AM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
You've seen the Big 12 players in the Senior Bowl up close throughout their careers. You've heard how they measured up to the competition during the week.
There was no Jerrod Johnson in this game, a high-profile player who hadn't seen extended playing time for several weeks, so there's not much else to say, but here's how all of the Big 12 talent in the Senior Bowl did in Saturday's game.
Actual game performances aren't nearly as important as the week of practice that precedes it, so don't put much stock into these numbers as they relate to each player's overall draft stock. However, it's still interesting to see how they do while perhaps wearing their school's helmet for the final time.
Baylor:
There was no Jerrod Johnson in this game, a high-profile player who hadn't seen extended playing time for several weeks, so there's not much else to say, but here's how all of the Big 12 talent in the Senior Bowl did in Saturday's game.
Actual game performances aren't nearly as important as the week of practice that precedes it, so don't put much stock into these numbers as they relate to each player's overall draft stock. However, it's still interesting to see how they do while perhaps wearing their school's helmet for the final time.
Baylor:
- Phil Taylor, DL - started, no stats.
- Danny Watkins, OL - started.
- Jalil Brown, DB - started, made three tackles.
- Nate Solder, OL - started.
- Pierre Allen, DL - one tackle.
- Eric Hagg, DB - one tackle.
- Alex Henery, P - punted six times for an average of 42.8 yards and made an extra point. His longest punt went for 49 yards and one pinned the South team inside its 20-yard line.
- Roy Helu Jr., RB - two carries for 3 yards.
- Mike McNeill, TE - started, no stats.
- Niles Paul, WR - caught one pass for 5 yards, returned a kick 29 yards. Also made a tackle.
- Quinton Carter, DB - no stats.
- Jeremy Beal, DL - made four tackles and one sack for minus-7 yards.
- DeMarco Murray, RB - two carries, minus-4 yards.
- Kendall Hunter, RB - two carries, zero yards. One reception, 2 yards.
- Sam Acho, DL - Named MVP of the South team. Made three tackles, one sack, two tackles for loss and forced a fumble.
- Curtis Brown, DB - started, made a tackle.
- Von Miller, LB - started, named the game's defensive MVP. Four tackles on the day, including two tackles for loss.
Big 12 scouting notes from the Senior Bowl
January, 26, 2011
1/26/11
1:45
PM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
If you haven't been keeping track of our Senior Bowl blog, you should be. Our draft analysts -- Todd McShay, Steve Muench and Kevin Weidl -- are down in Mobile, Ala., providing daily updates from practices, and they've had plenty to say about a lot of talents in attendance.
So far this week, two former Big 12ers have emerged as the most impressive players at the Senior Bowl:
Writes Todd McShay in our Senior Bowl buzz:
Each year, there are players who separate themselves from the pack. They enter the week among the handful of players with first-round grades, but they quickly emerge as the elite class. ...While there have been just two practices this year, Texas A&M OLB Von Miller and Colorado OT Nate Solder are well on their way to joining that list. ...From what we see on the field and what we're hearing about their interviews off it, Miller and Solder are standing out the most this week. ... [Miller] was allowed to leave the LBs and join the D-linemen for one-on-one pass rush drills Tuesday, and it was impressive. He was unstoppable against players who are expected to go in the first two days of the draft.
... On the other side of the ball, Solder continues to be dominant. The thing that's impressed me is how stong he's been at the point of attack and finishing. We knew about his size and natural feet, and he's been all those things, but he's been nasty this week and it's been good to see. There are no cheap shots, but a couple of times when he could have finished a play a little easier, he just finished the guy.
There's plenty more about both players on our buzz page.
Here's a little more about the Big 12 seniors.
On Oklahoma running back DeMarco Murray:
"Murray, who measured in at 6 feet and 214 pounds, is lean in the lower body. That could explain why he gets tripped up and goes down too easily. He has to get stronger in his lower body and also needs to learn to run with his legs higher. He's had that problem throughout his career and we saw it today as well. But he has the best burst and was the most explosive of the North running backs. He hit a crease faster than the other backs. During one-on-one passing drills, he looks like a wide receiver. He runs crisp routes, knows how to separate, has strong hands and makes it look effortless."
On Texas A&M linebacker Von Miller:
"Texas A&M LB Von Miller went down with the linemen to rush the passer in one-on-ones and was lights out. He's so quick around the corner and the blockers had no chance."
On Baylor offensive tackle Danny Watkins:
"Baylor OG Danny Watkins is a technician on the inside. He is very good at sliding and mirroring defenders to stay in front of them. He got a little chippy at the end of plays, too."
On Texas defensive end Sam Acho:
"Texas DT Sam Acho lacks quickness and power. He was shut out in one-on-ones, going 0-for-7 in the drill. Tough session for him."
On Nebraska receiver/tight end Mike McNeill:
"Nebraska TE Mike NcNeill lined up at fullback and did a good job of getting into position at the second level. He took good angles and made the blocks."
A couple other notes:
So far this week, two former Big 12ers have emerged as the most impressive players at the Senior Bowl:
Writes Todd McShay in our Senior Bowl buzz:
Each year, there are players who separate themselves from the pack. They enter the week among the handful of players with first-round grades, but they quickly emerge as the elite class. ...While there have been just two practices this year, Texas A&M OLB Von Miller and Colorado OT Nate Solder are well on their way to joining that list. ...From what we see on the field and what we're hearing about their interviews off it, Miller and Solder are standing out the most this week. ... [Miller] was allowed to leave the LBs and join the D-linemen for one-on-one pass rush drills Tuesday, and it was impressive. He was unstoppable against players who are expected to go in the first two days of the draft.
... On the other side of the ball, Solder continues to be dominant. The thing that's impressed me is how stong he's been at the point of attack and finishing. We knew about his size and natural feet, and he's been all those things, but he's been nasty this week and it's been good to see. There are no cheap shots, but a couple of times when he could have finished a play a little easier, he just finished the guy.
There's plenty more about both players on our buzz page.
Here's a little more about the Big 12 seniors.
On Oklahoma running back DeMarco Murray:
"Murray, who measured in at 6 feet and 214 pounds, is lean in the lower body. That could explain why he gets tripped up and goes down too easily. He has to get stronger in his lower body and also needs to learn to run with his legs higher. He's had that problem throughout his career and we saw it today as well. But he has the best burst and was the most explosive of the North running backs. He hit a crease faster than the other backs. During one-on-one passing drills, he looks like a wide receiver. He runs crisp routes, knows how to separate, has strong hands and makes it look effortless."
On Texas A&M linebacker Von Miller:
"Texas A&M LB Von Miller went down with the linemen to rush the passer in one-on-ones and was lights out. He's so quick around the corner and the blockers had no chance."
On Baylor offensive tackle Danny Watkins:
"Baylor OG Danny Watkins is a technician on the inside. He is very good at sliding and mirroring defenders to stay in front of them. He got a little chippy at the end of plays, too."
On Texas defensive end Sam Acho:
"Texas DT Sam Acho lacks quickness and power. He was shut out in one-on-ones, going 0-for-7 in the drill. Tough session for him."
On Nebraska receiver/tight end Mike McNeill:
"Nebraska TE Mike NcNeill lined up at fullback and did a good job of getting into position at the second level. He took good angles and made the blocks."
A couple other notes:
- Colorado offensive tackle Nate Solder measured at 6-foot-8 1/4, the tallest player at the Senior Bowl.
- Baylor defensive tackle Phil Taylor weighed in at 337 pounds, the heaviest player at the Senior Bowl, but impressed scouts with the way he carried the weight.
Signing day is exactly a week from today, and it's time to take a look at who needs what in its 2011 class.
Some schools have addressed these with their current class. Some haven't. Others are still trying.
We'll kick things off with the artists formerly known as the Big 12 North and examine the South later today.
COLORADO
Cornerback: Jalil Brown and Jimmy Smith were pretty reliable for the Buffaloes, but both are headed to the NFL, and the Buffaloes could definitely use some depth behind their first-year starters. It's not quite as pressing of an issue considering their move to the less pass-happy Pac-12, but they still like to sling it out west.
Receiver: Colorado isn't exactly starving anywhere on offense, but receiver sticks out a bit. Toney Clemons was good, but maybe not quite what the Buffaloes hoped he'd be in 2010, but they caught a break in getting Paul Richardson back after a great freshman season. The Buffaloes need some complementary pieces around Clemons and Richardson to replace departed pass-catchers Scotty McKnight and Travon Patterson. Next year, that should be tight end Ryan Deehan and receiver Will Jefferson.
IOWA STATE
Receiver: It's been a struggle for Iowa State in recent years, but they have to get better outside to help out their quarterback. Sedrick Johnson's transfer only worsens the Cyclones depth at the position, but Jake Williams and tight end Collin Franklin, the team's leading receiver, are gone. Shontrelle Johnson looks ready to become a big factor in the offense, but the Cyclones filling the space at receiver will make it easier for Johnson to replace running back Alexander Robinson.
Safety: Both starters, David Sims and Zac Sandvig, are gone. So is the Cyclones top reserve at the position, Michael O'Connell. Sims was a top-notch talent that will be tough to replace, but Iowa State needs more depth here. They should be solid at corner with Leonard Johnson, Ter'ran Benton, Jeremy Reeves and Anthony Young, which could make the new safeties' jobs easier.
KANSAS
Defensive line: KU is losing three of four starters on the line, including the team's only All-Big 12 talent, defensive end Jake Laptad. Turner Gill wants more speed, and this is a place to install it. Tackles that tip the scales at 320 pounds aren't too necessary in this league, but speed on the edge can go a long way in stopping the pass.
Quarterback: Neither Jordan Webb or Quinn Mecham look like long-term answers at quarterback for the Jayhawks. Mecham will be a senior, and Webb might develop into a better player as a sophomore next year, but Kansas needs other options. The Jayhawks hope Brock Berglund, the top-rated recruit in Colorado, is the solution to the problem.
KANSAS STATE
Running back: I hear your cries for Bryce Brown, Wildcats fans, but K-State can't expect to hitch their wagon to the former blue-chip recruit turned Tennessee transfer in the same way it did for Daniel Thomas. Thomas and his backup, William Powell, are gone, and the Wildcats need some depth at running back to show up.
Interior offensive linemen: K-State loses both guards and its center from an offense that produced the Big 12's leading rusher in 2010. Don't expect them to do it again in 2011 without Wade Weibert, Kenneth Mayfield and Zach Kendall, as well as Thomas and Powell, but finding some new talent behind them will help them come close.
Cornerback: David Garrett emerged as a budding star in 2010 ready for a breakout senior year in 2011, but the Wildcats lose Terrance Sweeney and Stephen Harrison, as well as safety Troy Butler. Like we've mentioned earlier, good secondaries are a must for success in the Big 12, and K-State had one of the league's worst in 2010.
MISSOURI
Receiver: Missouri has some good ones ready to suit up in 2011, namely Wes Kemp, Jerrell Jackson and T.J. Moe, but the Tigers don't have a true gamebreaker. They have some younger players in Marcus Lucas and Jimmie Hunt who they hope will develop into big-time, All-American caliber receivers, a la Jeremy Maclin and Danario Alexander. In Missouri's system, though, adding a few receivers is always a good idea. They certainly don't need any more running backs.
Defensive backs: Mizzou doesn't have any huge holes that need to be filled with recruiting, but the Tigers lose both corners, Carl Gettis and Kevin Rutland from their 2010 team. Kip Edwards and E.J. Gaines look likely to fill those roles, but the Tigers could use some depth and keep recruiting in the secondary to help add some talent around Tavon Bolden and Matt White, safeties who will replace departed Jarrell Harrison, who actually had to play some linebacker in 2010 because of injuries.
NEBRASKA
Every kind of kicker: Alex Henery, the team's punter and kicker is gone. So is kickoff specialist and lover/producer of touchbacks, Adi Kunalic. Fan favorite Henery was hardly underappreciated by the Nebraska faithful, but they'll miss him even more if the Huskers can't find a suitable placekicker and punter. Bo Pelini was reportedly after Wake Forest commit Mauro Bondi this week.
Receiver: Niles Paul and Mike McNeill are gone. The Huskers need Brandon Kinnie to come through with another good year and it'd be nice if Quincy Enunwa broke through in 2011, but Taylor Martinez needs some more help at wide out, and a couple new recruits could provide it as Martinez's passing prowess matures.
Some schools have addressed these with their current class. Some haven't. Others are still trying.
We'll kick things off with the artists formerly known as the Big 12 North and examine the South later today.
COLORADO
Cornerback: Jalil Brown and Jimmy Smith were pretty reliable for the Buffaloes, but both are headed to the NFL, and the Buffaloes could definitely use some depth behind their first-year starters. It's not quite as pressing of an issue considering their move to the less pass-happy Pac-12, but they still like to sling it out west.
Receiver: Colorado isn't exactly starving anywhere on offense, but receiver sticks out a bit. Toney Clemons was good, but maybe not quite what the Buffaloes hoped he'd be in 2010, but they caught a break in getting Paul Richardson back after a great freshman season. The Buffaloes need some complementary pieces around Clemons and Richardson to replace departed pass-catchers Scotty McKnight and Travon Patterson. Next year, that should be tight end Ryan Deehan and receiver Will Jefferson.
IOWA STATE
Receiver: It's been a struggle for Iowa State in recent years, but they have to get better outside to help out their quarterback. Sedrick Johnson's transfer only worsens the Cyclones depth at the position, but Jake Williams and tight end Collin Franklin, the team's leading receiver, are gone. Shontrelle Johnson looks ready to become a big factor in the offense, but the Cyclones filling the space at receiver will make it easier for Johnson to replace running back Alexander Robinson.
Safety: Both starters, David Sims and Zac Sandvig, are gone. So is the Cyclones top reserve at the position, Michael O'Connell. Sims was a top-notch talent that will be tough to replace, but Iowa State needs more depth here. They should be solid at corner with Leonard Johnson, Ter'ran Benton, Jeremy Reeves and Anthony Young, which could make the new safeties' jobs easier.
KANSAS
Defensive line: KU is losing three of four starters on the line, including the team's only All-Big 12 talent, defensive end Jake Laptad. Turner Gill wants more speed, and this is a place to install it. Tackles that tip the scales at 320 pounds aren't too necessary in this league, but speed on the edge can go a long way in stopping the pass.
Quarterback: Neither Jordan Webb or Quinn Mecham look like long-term answers at quarterback for the Jayhawks. Mecham will be a senior, and Webb might develop into a better player as a sophomore next year, but Kansas needs other options. The Jayhawks hope Brock Berglund, the top-rated recruit in Colorado, is the solution to the problem.
KANSAS STATE
Running back: I hear your cries for Bryce Brown, Wildcats fans, but K-State can't expect to hitch their wagon to the former blue-chip recruit turned Tennessee transfer in the same way it did for Daniel Thomas. Thomas and his backup, William Powell, are gone, and the Wildcats need some depth at running back to show up.
Interior offensive linemen: K-State loses both guards and its center from an offense that produced the Big 12's leading rusher in 2010. Don't expect them to do it again in 2011 without Wade Weibert, Kenneth Mayfield and Zach Kendall, as well as Thomas and Powell, but finding some new talent behind them will help them come close.
Cornerback: David Garrett emerged as a budding star in 2010 ready for a breakout senior year in 2011, but the Wildcats lose Terrance Sweeney and Stephen Harrison, as well as safety Troy Butler. Like we've mentioned earlier, good secondaries are a must for success in the Big 12, and K-State had one of the league's worst in 2010.
MISSOURI
Receiver: Missouri has some good ones ready to suit up in 2011, namely Wes Kemp, Jerrell Jackson and T.J. Moe, but the Tigers don't have a true gamebreaker. They have some younger players in Marcus Lucas and Jimmie Hunt who they hope will develop into big-time, All-American caliber receivers, a la Jeremy Maclin and Danario Alexander. In Missouri's system, though, adding a few receivers is always a good idea. They certainly don't need any more running backs.
Defensive backs: Mizzou doesn't have any huge holes that need to be filled with recruiting, but the Tigers lose both corners, Carl Gettis and Kevin Rutland from their 2010 team. Kip Edwards and E.J. Gaines look likely to fill those roles, but the Tigers could use some depth and keep recruiting in the secondary to help add some talent around Tavon Bolden and Matt White, safeties who will replace departed Jarrell Harrison, who actually had to play some linebacker in 2010 because of injuries.
NEBRASKA
Every kind of kicker: Alex Henery, the team's punter and kicker is gone. So is kickoff specialist and lover/producer of touchbacks, Adi Kunalic. Fan favorite Henery was hardly underappreciated by the Nebraska faithful, but they'll miss him even more if the Huskers can't find a suitable placekicker and punter. Bo Pelini was reportedly after Wake Forest commit Mauro Bondi this week.
Receiver: Niles Paul and Mike McNeill are gone. The Huskers need Brandon Kinnie to come through with another good year and it'd be nice if Quincy Enunwa broke through in 2011, but Taylor Martinez needs some more help at wide out, and a couple new recruits could provide it as Martinez's passing prowess matures.
Husker DB Hagg a late Senior Bowl addition
January, 24, 2011
1/24/11
10:00
AM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
The Senior Bowl isn't until Saturday, but practices this week will be televised on NFL Network and there will be plenty of Big 12 talent taking part.
Nebraska's Eric Hagg was added to the roster on Sunday, but here's another quick look at the now 18 players from across the league who will be on the field on Saturday.
The Huskers' six participants are the most of any team this year.
Baylor: Phil Taylor, DL; Danny Watkins, OL
Colorado: Jalil Brown, DB; Nate Solder, OL
Kansas State: Daniel Thomas, RB
Nebraska: Pierre Allen, DL; Eric Hagg, DB; Alex Henery, P; Roy Helu Jr., RB; Mike McNeill, TE; Niles Paul, WR
Oklahoma: Quinton Carter, DB; Jeremy Beal, DL; DeMarco Murray, RB
Oklahoma State: Kendall Hunter, RB
Texas: Sam Acho, DL; Curtis Brown, DB
Texas A&M: Von Miller, LB
Nebraska's Eric Hagg was added to the roster on Sunday, but here's another quick look at the now 18 players from across the league who will be on the field on Saturday.
The Huskers' six participants are the most of any team this year.
Baylor: Phil Taylor, DL; Danny Watkins, OL
Colorado: Jalil Brown, DB; Nate Solder, OL
Kansas State: Daniel Thomas, RB
Nebraska: Pierre Allen, DL; Eric Hagg, DB; Alex Henery, P; Roy Helu Jr., RB; Mike McNeill, TE; Niles Paul, WR
Oklahoma: Quinton Carter, DB; Jeremy Beal, DL; DeMarco Murray, RB
Oklahoma State: Kendall Hunter, RB
Texas: Sam Acho, DL; Curtis Brown, DB
Texas A&M: Von Miller, LB
Senior Bowl finalizes roster, 17 from Big 12
January, 19, 2011
1/19/11
1:30
PM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
The Under Armour Senior Bowl has finalized its roster, which features 17 participants from the Big 12.
The game is set for a 4 p.m. ET kickoff on Jan. 29 at Ladd-Peebles Satdium in Mobile, Ala. You can see it, and the entire week of practices, on the NFL Network.
Here's who'll be on the field if you tune in:
Baylor: Phil Taylor, DL; Danny Watkins, OL
Colorado: Jalil Brown, DB; Nate Solder, OL
Kansas State: Daniel Thomas, RB
Nebraska: Pierre Allen, DL; Alex Henery, P; Roy Helu Jr., RB; Mike McNeill, TE; Niles Paul, WR
Oklahoma: Quinton Carter, DB; Jeremy Beal, DL; DeMarco Murray, RB
Oklahoma State: Kendall Hunter, RB
Texas: Sam Acho, DL; Curtis Brown, DB
Texas A&M: Von Miller, LB
The game is set for a 4 p.m. ET kickoff on Jan. 29 at Ladd-Peebles Satdium in Mobile, Ala. You can see it, and the entire week of practices, on the NFL Network.
Here's who'll be on the field if you tune in:
Baylor: Phil Taylor, DL; Danny Watkins, OL
Colorado: Jalil Brown, DB; Nate Solder, OL
Kansas State: Daniel Thomas, RB
Nebraska: Pierre Allen, DL; Alex Henery, P; Roy Helu Jr., RB; Mike McNeill, TE; Niles Paul, WR
Oklahoma: Quinton Carter, DB; Jeremy Beal, DL; DeMarco Murray, RB
Oklahoma State: Kendall Hunter, RB
Texas: Sam Acho, DL; Curtis Brown, DB
Texas A&M: Von Miller, LB
Holiday Bowl: Three keys for Nebraska
December, 29, 2010
12/29/10
11:00
AM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
1. Make life easy for Taylor Martinez. Martinez has completed just 58 percent of his passes in 2010 and struggled to complete passes and get comfortable in the pocket, especially against Oklahoma in the Big 12 championship game. If the Huskers can get him some easy completions early on three-step-drop slants to a sure-handed guy such as the underutilized Mike McNeill or on screens to running backs Rex Burkhead and Roy Helu Jr., they can help get Martinez comfortable. The loss to Oklahoma made it clear that Nebraska will struggle if the passing game consists of Martinez dropping back deep and relying on receivers such as Brandon Kinnie to get open and make big plays down the field. If the Huskers can manage an early lead and be afforded the luxury of passing only when they want to -- see the early season Huskers -- this gets a lot simpler.
2. Inflict déjà vu on Jake Locker. Hit him early with a variety of blitzes. Force him into mistakes. I'd be shocked if Locker has another unthinkable 4-for-20 day like he did in September, but the only quarterback who had what could be considered legitimate success against Nebraska's secondary was Oklahoma's Landry Jones. Missouri's Blaine Gabbert, Oklahoma State's Brandon Weeden and Texas A&M's Ryan Tannehill all had below-average outings at best, and all three should be among the Big 12's best passers in 2011.
3. Stuff the run, especially early. Washington actually ran the ball pretty effectively against Nebraska, especially early in that game, and if Nebraska's front seven can slow that down and make the Huskies a one-dimensional offense, forcing Locker into a bad day will be quite a bit easier. The game got lopsided quickly in the second half and prevented Washington from sticking to the running game. Washington still managed 175 yards on 39 carries for an average of 4.5 yards per carry, and the Huskies will try to recreate what worked against a tough defense that has, at times, been susceptible to the run. If Washington does that, the Huskies could make a game of it. If not, expect another Nebraska blowout.
2. Inflict déjà vu on Jake Locker. Hit him early with a variety of blitzes. Force him into mistakes. I'd be shocked if Locker has another unthinkable 4-for-20 day like he did in September, but the only quarterback who had what could be considered legitimate success against Nebraska's secondary was Oklahoma's Landry Jones. Missouri's Blaine Gabbert, Oklahoma State's Brandon Weeden and Texas A&M's Ryan Tannehill all had below-average outings at best, and all three should be among the Big 12's best passers in 2011.
3. Stuff the run, especially early. Washington actually ran the ball pretty effectively against Nebraska, especially early in that game, and if Nebraska's front seven can slow that down and make the Huskies a one-dimensional offense, forcing Locker into a bad day will be quite a bit easier. The game got lopsided quickly in the second half and prevented Washington from sticking to the running game. Washington still managed 175 yards on 39 carries for an average of 4.5 yards per carry, and the Huskies will try to recreate what worked against a tough defense that has, at times, been susceptible to the run. If Washington does that, the Huskies could make a game of it. If not, expect another Nebraska blowout.
Halftime analysis: Nebraska 20, OU 17
December, 4, 2010
12/04/10
10:03
PM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
ARLINGTON, Texas -- Both defenses are playing well, but they've both given up a long touchdown, and the offenses have turned it over, which has given us a little more scoring than I expected tonight. We'll see if either offense can exploit the defenses in the second half, too. I doubt it, but those types of breakdowns are impossible to predict.
The big story has been Oklahoma capturing the momentum after falling behind 17-0 and looking flat early on.
Turning point: There were plenty of plays that could be in contention for this one, but Oklahoma's 49-yard deep ball down the middle to Kenny Stills injected some life into the Sooners, and keyed a run of 17 consecutive points to tie the game. Taylor Martinez's inexcusable interception in the back of the end zone, and Roy Helu Jr.'s fumble in Nebraska territory that set up Oklahoma's game-tying touchdown are in the running as well.
Stat of the half: Oklahoma penalties: Three for 30 yards. Nebraska's: Two for 10. Hopefully this is the last time we have to talk about this.
Best player in the half: Kenny Stills, Oklahoma. His two catches were two of Oklahoma's biggest plays of the half. The first was his 49-yard score, and the second was a nifty double move on one of the conference's best corners, Alfonzo Dennard, for a 30-yard gain down to the goal line.
Best player in the half II: Alex Henery, Nebraska. He's proving just how valuable special teams are in close games. His 54-yard field goal in the first quarter put the Huskers up 10-0 and would have been good from well beyond 60 yards. His 42-yarder helped the Huskers take back some momentum heading into halftime.
Best call: Nebraska called for a play-action pass on 4th-and-1, and Martinez hit Mike McNeill for a 36-yard gain down to the 9-yard line. Unfortunately for the Huskers, Martinez threw a preventable interception in the back of the end zone three plays later.
Best call II: Oklahoma must have been paying attention. The Sooners went with a naked bootleg on a 4th-and-1 of their own, and Landry Jones was all by himself down the left sideline for a 15-yard gain into the red zone. The Sooners finished that drive with a field goal.
What Oklahoma needs to do: Keep the pace up. Nebraska did well early, but the Sooners' no-huddle got to them late. Oklahoma has outgained Nebraska 280-209, but it was even more lopsided before Nebraska went 56 yards on its last drive of the half to set up the go-ahead field goal.
What Nebraska needs to do: Seems pretty simple. Quit turning it over. Nebraska cost itself points with Martinez's interception, and Helu's fumble set up the Sooners game-tying touchdown. Both the defense and offense are playing well enough to win the game.
The big story has been Oklahoma capturing the momentum after falling behind 17-0 and looking flat early on.
Turning point: There were plenty of plays that could be in contention for this one, but Oklahoma's 49-yard deep ball down the middle to Kenny Stills injected some life into the Sooners, and keyed a run of 17 consecutive points to tie the game. Taylor Martinez's inexcusable interception in the back of the end zone, and Roy Helu Jr.'s fumble in Nebraska territory that set up Oklahoma's game-tying touchdown are in the running as well.
Stat of the half: Oklahoma penalties: Three for 30 yards. Nebraska's: Two for 10. Hopefully this is the last time we have to talk about this.
Best player in the half: Kenny Stills, Oklahoma. His two catches were two of Oklahoma's biggest plays of the half. The first was his 49-yard score, and the second was a nifty double move on one of the conference's best corners, Alfonzo Dennard, for a 30-yard gain down to the goal line.
Best player in the half II: Alex Henery, Nebraska. He's proving just how valuable special teams are in close games. His 54-yard field goal in the first quarter put the Huskers up 10-0 and would have been good from well beyond 60 yards. His 42-yarder helped the Huskers take back some momentum heading into halftime.
Best call: Nebraska called for a play-action pass on 4th-and-1, and Martinez hit Mike McNeill for a 36-yard gain down to the 9-yard line. Unfortunately for the Huskers, Martinez threw a preventable interception in the back of the end zone three plays later.
Best call II: Oklahoma must have been paying attention. The Sooners went with a naked bootleg on a 4th-and-1 of their own, and Landry Jones was all by himself down the left sideline for a 15-yard gain into the red zone. The Sooners finished that drive with a field goal.
What Oklahoma needs to do: Keep the pace up. Nebraska did well early, but the Sooners' no-huddle got to them late. Oklahoma has outgained Nebraska 280-209, but it was even more lopsided before Nebraska went 56 yards on its last drive of the half to set up the go-ahead field goal.
What Nebraska needs to do: Seems pretty simple. Quit turning it over. Nebraska cost itself points with Martinez's interception, and Helu's fumble set up the Sooners game-tying touchdown. Both the defense and offense are playing well enough to win the game.
Things not getting easier for the Huskers
November, 24, 2010
11/24/10
11:22
AM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
Three weeks ago, the idea of Nebraska losing to Colorado was almost unthinkable.
Suddenly, it's a very real possibility with a probability that only rose with the team's announcement that leading receiver Niles Paul will miss the Huskers final Big 12 regular season game with a foot injury, and his status for the rest of the season is within doubt.
Only two Nebraska receivers have more than 13 catches this season, and Paul leads the team with 39 grabs for 516 yards and a touchdown. He's also one of the team's fastest players and an explosive kick returner who returned a kickoff for a touchdown against Oklahoma State. For the offense, that means Brandon Kinnie will need to play well, but outside of tight end Kyler Reed and converted tight end Mike McNeill, the Huskers are short on reliable receivers. Curenski Gilleylen will likely replace Paul at the "Z" receiver position.
Taylor Martinez has been limited in Nebraska's last two games with a sprained ankle, and the Huskers running game, one of the nation's best earlier in the season, has suffered as a result. He's expected to be available on Friday, but it's doubtful he'll be anywhere near his usual self after re-injuring the ankle last week in a loss to Texas A&M when lineman Mike Caputo stepped on his foot as a tried to make a move.
So as much as other receivers will have to fill Paul's void, the real onus for beating Colorado will fall on the shoulders of the offensive line and running backs Roy Helu Jr. and Rex Burkhead. Nebraska didn't use much of its Wildcat formation with Burkhead taking the snap against Texas A&M, but with Martinez gimpy and Paul out, it'd be surprising if the formation that was so effective when Martinez sat against Iowa State isn't a big part of Nebraska's game plan.
It's not ideal, but thanks to those injuries, a Colorado upset is a real possibility. Questions about Pelini's sideline behavior and an incident with a cameraman involving defensive coordinator Carl Pelini have provided distractions that may or may not have an effect on what we see from Nebraska this week. At the very least, after conversations with athletic director Tom Osborne and chancellor Harvey Perlman, I'd expect to see a more docile Bo Pelini roaming the sidelines.
The penalty discrepancy (16-2 in favor of Texas A&M) last week has provided more talking points and motivation for Nebraska, but against a surging Colorado team that's found new life under interim coach Brian Cabral and is one win away from bowl eligibility, getting the win won't be easy.
Few thought that would be the case only a few weeks ago.
Suddenly, it's a very real possibility with a probability that only rose with the team's announcement that leading receiver Niles Paul will miss the Huskers final Big 12 regular season game with a foot injury, and his status for the rest of the season is within doubt.
Only two Nebraska receivers have more than 13 catches this season, and Paul leads the team with 39 grabs for 516 yards and a touchdown. He's also one of the team's fastest players and an explosive kick returner who returned a kickoff for a touchdown against Oklahoma State. For the offense, that means Brandon Kinnie will need to play well, but outside of tight end Kyler Reed and converted tight end Mike McNeill, the Huskers are short on reliable receivers. Curenski Gilleylen will likely replace Paul at the "Z" receiver position.
Taylor Martinez has been limited in Nebraska's last two games with a sprained ankle, and the Huskers running game, one of the nation's best earlier in the season, has suffered as a result. He's expected to be available on Friday, but it's doubtful he'll be anywhere near his usual self after re-injuring the ankle last week in a loss to Texas A&M when lineman Mike Caputo stepped on his foot as a tried to make a move.
So as much as other receivers will have to fill Paul's void, the real onus for beating Colorado will fall on the shoulders of the offensive line and running backs Roy Helu Jr. and Rex Burkhead. Nebraska didn't use much of its Wildcat formation with Burkhead taking the snap against Texas A&M, but with Martinez gimpy and Paul out, it'd be surprising if the formation that was so effective when Martinez sat against Iowa State isn't a big part of Nebraska's game plan.
It's not ideal, but thanks to those injuries, a Colorado upset is a real possibility. Questions about Pelini's sideline behavior and an incident with a cameraman involving defensive coordinator Carl Pelini have provided distractions that may or may not have an effect on what we see from Nebraska this week. At the very least, after conversations with athletic director Tom Osborne and chancellor Harvey Perlman, I'd expect to see a more docile Bo Pelini roaming the sidelines.
The penalty discrepancy (16-2 in favor of Texas A&M) last week has provided more talking points and motivation for Nebraska, but against a surging Colorado team that's found new life under interim coach Brian Cabral and is one win away from bowl eligibility, getting the win won't be easy.
Few thought that would be the case only a few weeks ago.
» Predictions: ACC | Big 12 | Big East | Big Ten | Pac-10 | SEC | Non-AQ
I'm making my way to Manhattan, Kan. today for tonight's game between the Wildcats and Huskers, but I'll be back in Dallas in time to see the Aggies and Hogs go at it in The House That Jerry (or some guys he paid) Built.
Last week was a rough one for the Big 12 Blog, with my missed picks equaling my total from the previous four weeks. You knew the breakdown had to come sometime.
I missed my upset pick of Texas A&M over Oklahoma State and whiffed on a couple of swing games in Ames and Boulder.
Here's how I stand:
Last week: 2-3 (.400)
Overall: 41-6 (.872)
Let's get to this week's picks:
THURSDAY
No. 7 Nebraska 31, Kansas State 21: This thing smells like another possible upset, and Kansas State should be able to move the ball pretty well with Daniel Thomas, but the Wildcats don't have the talent or speed in the front seven to slow Taylor Martinez's legs. Look for defensive backs Emmanuel Lamur, Troy Butler and Tysyn Hartman to make a lot of tackles, on Martinez and receivers Brandon Kinnie and Mike McNeill. That's not a good thing. Martinez wasn't rattled in the passing game in his first road start, and him throwing a couple of costly interceptions is the only thing that turns this in Kansas State's favor.
FRIDAY
No. 22 Oklahoma State 51, Louisiana-Lafayette 20: The Sun Belt has some good teams. The Ragin' Cajuns are not one of them. Georgia lost at Colorado on Saturday night, but beat these guys 55-7 in Athens for its only win of the season. Puntos, puntos, golly.
SATURDAY
Baylor 27, Texas Tech 24: This is definitely the toughest pick of the week. Comparing the depth charts, Texas Tech looks like the better team, but Baylor is getting it done and has all the momentum and confidence. Texas Tech looks lost on defense and inconsistent on offense. In 2008, the Bears almost took down the best Tech team in recent history, losing 35-28 after taking a lead into the fourth quarter. They almost did it again in 2009 in Cowboys Stadium. With Robert Griffin back, they get it done this time. Enjoy the corny dogs, Bears.
No. 11 Arkansas 38, Texas A&M 28: Come back later today for a video of me explaining my pick of the week.
No. 24 Missouri 41, Colorado 17: Colorado says it's sick of getting blown out by the Tigers. They'll still be sick on Saturday night after hitting the road for the first time since a 52-7 loss at Cal. All of the Buffaloes' wins have come over mediocre teams. Missouri's running backs have carried the load so far this year, but Blaine Gabbert has his first big game, staying away from big-time corners Jimmy Smith and Jalil Brown in favor of more bubble screens to the flats and underneath routes to T.J. Moe and Michael Egnew. The Buffaloes can stop Wes Kemp and Jerrell Jackson. Good luck with the rest of the Tigers' offense.
No. 10 Utah 24, Iowa State 21: I really do think Iowa State has a great chance to upset the Utes. I just don't have the guts to pick it. Iowa State's offense is better, but it's not "hang 52 points every week" better. Two of the Cyclones' touchdown drives were less than 40 yards, and another score came on an onside kick return. One other scoring drive was a one-play, 61-yard run by Shontrelle Johnson. Can't count on those every week.
Idle: Oklahoma, Texas, Kansas.
I'm making my way to Manhattan, Kan. today for tonight's game between the Wildcats and Huskers, but I'll be back in Dallas in time to see the Aggies and Hogs go at it in The House That Jerry (or some guys he paid) Built.
Last week was a rough one for the Big 12 Blog, with my missed picks equaling my total from the previous four weeks. You knew the breakdown had to come sometime.
I missed my upset pick of Texas A&M over Oklahoma State and whiffed on a couple of swing games in Ames and Boulder.
Here's how I stand:
Last week: 2-3 (.400)
Overall: 41-6 (.872)
Let's get to this week's picks:
THURSDAY
No. 7 Nebraska 31, Kansas State 21: This thing smells like another possible upset, and Kansas State should be able to move the ball pretty well with Daniel Thomas, but the Wildcats don't have the talent or speed in the front seven to slow Taylor Martinez's legs. Look for defensive backs Emmanuel Lamur, Troy Butler and Tysyn Hartman to make a lot of tackles, on Martinez and receivers Brandon Kinnie and Mike McNeill. That's not a good thing. Martinez wasn't rattled in the passing game in his first road start, and him throwing a couple of costly interceptions is the only thing that turns this in Kansas State's favor.
FRIDAY
No. 22 Oklahoma State 51, Louisiana-Lafayette 20: The Sun Belt has some good teams. The Ragin' Cajuns are not one of them. Georgia lost at Colorado on Saturday night, but beat these guys 55-7 in Athens for its only win of the season. Puntos, puntos, golly.
SATURDAY
Baylor 27, Texas Tech 24: This is definitely the toughest pick of the week. Comparing the depth charts, Texas Tech looks like the better team, but Baylor is getting it done and has all the momentum and confidence. Texas Tech looks lost on defense and inconsistent on offense. In 2008, the Bears almost took down the best Tech team in recent history, losing 35-28 after taking a lead into the fourth quarter. They almost did it again in 2009 in Cowboys Stadium. With Robert Griffin back, they get it done this time. Enjoy the corny dogs, Bears.
No. 11 Arkansas 38, Texas A&M 28: Come back later today for a video of me explaining my pick of the week.
No. 24 Missouri 41, Colorado 17: Colorado says it's sick of getting blown out by the Tigers. They'll still be sick on Saturday night after hitting the road for the first time since a 52-7 loss at Cal. All of the Buffaloes' wins have come over mediocre teams. Missouri's running backs have carried the load so far this year, but Blaine Gabbert has his first big game, staying away from big-time corners Jimmy Smith and Jalil Brown in favor of more bubble screens to the flats and underneath routes to T.J. Moe and Michael Egnew. The Buffaloes can stop Wes Kemp and Jerrell Jackson. Good luck with the rest of the Tigers' offense.
No. 10 Utah 24, Iowa State 21: I really do think Iowa State has a great chance to upset the Utes. I just don't have the guts to pick it. Iowa State's offense is better, but it's not "hang 52 points every week" better. Two of the Cyclones' touchdown drives were less than 40 yards, and another score came on an onside kick return. One other scoring drive was a one-play, 61-yard run by Shontrelle Johnson. Can't count on those every week.
Idle: Oklahoma, Texas, Kansas.
Thanks to Nebraska forcing a 4-for-20 performance, Washington quarterback Jake Locker has surrendered his spot on the top of Mel Kiper's Big Board.
There's plenty of other Big 12 flavor, too, on his updated draft forecast released on Tuesady.
Other notes:
Position rankings: Seniors
There's plenty of other Big 12 flavor, too, on his updated draft forecast released on Tuesady.
- Nebraska cornerback Prince Amukamara is the Big 12's top overall prospect, at No. 5.
- Kansas State running back Daniel Thomas is No. 20 on the list, Colorado left tackle Nate Solder checks in at No. 21.
Other notes:
Position rankings: Seniors
- Texas A&M's Jerrod Johnson is the No. 5 quarterback.
- Daniel Thomas (KSU), DeMarco Murray (OU) and Kendall Hunter (OSU) are still 1-2-3 on the top of the running back list.
- Nebraska's Niles Paul is the No. 1 receiver.
- Nebraska's Mike McNeill is the No. 5 tight end.
- Solder is the No. 2 offensive tackle.
- Oklahoma's Jeremy Beal is the No. 5 defensive end.
- Texas A&M's Von Miller is the No. 2 outside linebacker.
- Oklahoma's Quinton Carter is the No. 3 safety.
- Nebraska's Alex Henery is the No. 2 kicker.
- Baylor's Derek Epperson is the No. 4 punter.
- Prince Amukamara (NU), Jimmy Smith (CU) and Curtis Brown (UT) are 1-3-5 among cornerbacks.
- Missouri's Blaine Gabbert is the No. 3 quarterback.
- Texas' Cody Johnson is the No. 2 fullback.
- Oklahoma's Ryan Broyles is the No. 5 receiver.
- Iowa State's Kelechi Osemele is the No. 5 offensive tackle.
- Colorado's Ryan Miller is the No. 3 guard.
- Oklahoma's Frank Alexander is the No. 5 defensive end.
- Jared Crick (NU) and Kheeston Randall (UT) are the Nos. 1 and 4 defensive tackles.
- Oklahoma's Travis Lewis is the No. 2 inside linebacker.
- Texas' Aaron Williams is the No. 5 cornerback.
- Oklahoma State's Markelle Martin is the No. 5 safety.
Plenty of folks wondered how Nebraska's new defense would look in its first test against a major conference offense.
Early on, it has answered emphatically.
The Blackshirts picked off Washington quarterback Jake Locker's first pass -- his first interception of the season -- and scored two plays later when Taylor Martinez threw the first touchdown pass of his career to Mike McNeill. Nebraska leads, 7-0, and forced a punt on the next possession.
Locker's throw was a bad decision and a badly underthrown ball, easily intercepted by Eric Hagg.
Huskers fans flooded Seattle for today's game and have a strong presence at the game.
If Washington wants to upset the Huskers, Locker will have to showcase more of the attributes that made him the top quarterback prospect in the 2011 NFL Draft.
Early on, it has answered emphatically.
The Blackshirts picked off Washington quarterback Jake Locker's first pass -- his first interception of the season -- and scored two plays later when Taylor Martinez threw the first touchdown pass of his career to Mike McNeill. Nebraska leads, 7-0, and forced a punt on the next possession.
Locker's throw was a bad decision and a badly underthrown ball, easily intercepted by Eric Hagg.
Huskers fans flooded Seattle for today's game and have a strong presence at the game.
If Washington wants to upset the Huskers, Locker will have to showcase more of the attributes that made him the top quarterback prospect in the 2011 NFL Draft.
Big 12 backs topping Kiper's Big Board
September, 16, 2010
9/16/10
11:35
AM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
ESPN NFL Draft analyst Mel Kiper revised his list of the top five seniors at each position for the 2011 NFL Draft, and the Big 12 is heavily represented, but nowhere as noticeably as at running back.
Kiper's top three senior running backs are Daniel Thomas, DeMarco Murray and Kendall Hunter, who wasn't on his top 5 in April, but has moved on with an impressive return.
Here's what Kiper had to say:
You'll need ESPN Insider to read the whole thing, but here are a few other Big 12 notes. Again, this list is only for seniors:
Here's what his list looked like back in April.
Kiper's top three senior running backs are Daniel Thomas, DeMarco Murray and Kendall Hunter, who wasn't on his top 5 in April, but has moved on with an impressive return.
Here's what Kiper had to say:
Thomas isn't the top overall back in the draft class -- he's behind Mark Ingram -- but he could move up the charts with a similar level of productivity in his senior year. So far, so good. He's off to a monster start after shredding UCLA.
You'll need ESPN Insider to read the whole thing, but here are a few other Big 12 notes. Again, this list is only for seniors:
- Texas A&M's Jerrod Johnson has moved up to Kiper's fourth-best quarterback. No. 5 is Idaho's Nathan Enderle, who Nebraska got a look at last weekend, but they'll face No. 1 this weekend, Jake Locker. Oklahoma saw his No. 2, Christian Ponder, last weekend.
- Nebraska's Niles Paul tops the list of receivers and Mike McNeill is Kiper's No. 3 tight end.
- Colorado's Nate Solder is the No. 2 tackle prospect.
- Three Big 12 cornerbacks made the list: Nebraska's Prince Amukamara (No. 1), Colorado's Jimmy Smith (No. 3) and Texas' Curtis Brown (No. 5).
- Oklahoma's Jeremy Beal is the No. 5 defensive end and Adrian Taylor is the No. 5 defensive tackle.
- Von Miller is the Big 12's only representative at outside linebacker. Kiper ranks him No. 2.
- Oklahoma's Quinton Carter ranks as the No. 3 safety.
- Special teams representatives were Nebraska's Alex Henery (No. 2 kicker) and Baylor's Derek Epperson (No. 2 punter).
Here's what his list looked like back in April.
Huskers, OU top list of elite NFL prospects
August, 19, 2010
8/19/10
2:05
PM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
Scouts, Inc. has released its list of the top 150 NFL prospects 
for the 2011 draft, and it's got plenty of Big 12 talent from top to bottom. You'll need an Insider account to see the whole list, but here's a bit of how it relates to the Big 12. Three Big 12 teams were among the nation's top 10 in possessing the most players on the list. Here's where they stood: T-3. Nebraska. (6) T-3. Oklahoma (6) T-10. Texas (4) North Carolina and Ohio State topped the list, with seven total prospects in the top 150. But let's take a closer look. Here's a few notes/thoughts.
for the 2011 draft, and it's got plenty of Big 12 talent from top to bottom. You'll need an Insider account to see the whole list, but here's a bit of how it relates to the Big 12. Three Big 12 teams were among the nation's top 10 in possessing the most players on the list. Here's where they stood: T-3. Nebraska. (6) T-3. Oklahoma (6) T-10. Texas (4) North Carolina and Ohio State topped the list, with seven total prospects in the top 150. But let's take a closer look. Here's a few notes/thoughts.
- The Big 12's top overall prospect? Nebraska cornerback Prince Amukamara, who is the No. 1 cornerback. That echoes what NFL scouts have been saying for the past few months, and it'll be interesting to see the battle between him and Aaron Williams (No. 6 cornerback) as the season moves on. They'll both see plenty of good offenses.[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Nati HarnikPrince Amukamara (21) is the Big 12's top NFL prospect -- and No. 3 overall -- according to Scouts, Inc. - For all the talk about Nebraska's offensive struggles, they placed three players in the top 150, including Mike McNeill, who is ranked as the No. 6 tight end, despite moving to receiver in the spring. Running back Roy Helu Jr. and receiver Niles Paul both rank in the top 150, at No. 12 for their respective positions. That should prove just how important Nebraska's quarterback situation is this year. Clearly, they've got some individual talent at the skill positions and a great offensive line, but without good quarterback play, they might not be much better than they were in 2009. If Zac Lee pulls a Joe Ganz and has a nice senior year, the Huskers are almost assured a finish in the top half of the Big 12 in scoring offense.
- Everyone wants to talk about Texas' defense, the list is a reflection of why. The Longhorns have three cornerbacks (Aaron Williams, Curtis Brown, Chykie Brown) in the top 150 and Williams and Brown are in the top 10 in their position. Sam Acho rounds out Texas' group as the No. 133 best overall prospect and No. 14 defensive end. That ranks as the best DE in the Big 12.
- Surprising that Oklahoma's Quinton Carter is rated as the No. 2 safety and a better projected pro than teammates Jeremy Beal, Ryan Broyles, Adrian Taylor and DeMarco Murray, all in the top 10 at their positions. No other safeties in the Big 12 rank in the top 10, but the next best is Nebraska's Eric Hagg.
- You can see how every prospect at your school is rated by Scouts, Inc. if you have Insider, but here's how the rest of the Big 12 ranked in players who made the top 150. If your school doesn't have a player in the top 150, here's a list of the top prospects for each team in the Big 12 from Mel Kiper.
The Big 12 announced its preseason award winners and All-Big 12 team on Thursday. Here's who's on the list:
Offensive Player of the Year: Jerrod Johnson, QB, Texas A&M
Co-Defensive Players of the Year: Jared Crick, DT, Nebraska; and Von Miller, LB, Texas A&M
Newcomer of the Year: Toney Clemons, WR, Colorado
Offense
QB: Jerrod Johnson, Texas A&M
RB: DeMarco Murray, Oklahoma
RB: Daniel Thomas, Kansas State
WR: Ryan Broyles, Oklahoma
WR: Jeff Fuller, Texas A&M
TE: Mike McNeill, Nebraska
OL: Ryan Miller, Colorado
OL: Nate Solder, Colorado
OL: Tim Barnes, Missouri
OL: Tanner Hawkinson, Kansas
OL: Stephen Good, Oklahoma
OL: Kyle Hix, Texas
PK: Alex Henery, Nebraska
KR: Cyrus Gray, Texas A&M
DEFENSE
DL: Aldon Smith, Missouri
DL: Jared Crick, Nebraska
DL: Jeremy Beal, Oklahoma
DL: Sam Acho, Texas
LB: Travis Lewis, Oklahoma
LB: Von Miller, Texas A&M
LB: Keenan Robinson, Texas
LB: Brian Duncan, Texas Tech
DB: Prince Amukamara, Nebraska
DB: Aaron Williams, Texas
DB: Quinton Carter, Oklahoma
DB: Blake Gideon, Texas
DB: Curtis Brown, Texas
P: Derek Epperson, Baylor
PR: Ryan Broyles, Oklahoma
A few notes/thoughts from the team:
1. Oklahoma - 7
2. Texas - 6
3. Nebraska - 4
3. Texas A&M - 4
5. Missouri - 2
5. Colorado - 2
7. Baylor - 1
7. Kansas - 1
7. Kansas State - 1
7. Texas Tech - 1
11. Oklahoma State - 0
11. Iowa State - 0
Offensive Player of the Year: Jerrod Johnson, QB, Texas A&M
Co-Defensive Players of the Year: Jared Crick, DT, Nebraska; and Von Miller, LB, Texas A&M
Newcomer of the Year: Toney Clemons, WR, Colorado
Offense
QB: Jerrod Johnson, Texas A&M
RB: DeMarco Murray, Oklahoma
RB: Daniel Thomas, Kansas State
WR: Ryan Broyles, Oklahoma
WR: Jeff Fuller, Texas A&M
TE: Mike McNeill, Nebraska
OL: Ryan Miller, Colorado
OL: Nate Solder, Colorado
OL: Tim Barnes, Missouri
OL: Tanner Hawkinson, Kansas
OL: Stephen Good, Oklahoma
OL: Kyle Hix, Texas
PK: Alex Henery, Nebraska
KR: Cyrus Gray, Texas A&M
DEFENSE
DL: Aldon Smith, Missouri
DL: Jared Crick, Nebraska
DL: Jeremy Beal, Oklahoma
DL: Sam Acho, Texas
LB: Travis Lewis, Oklahoma
LB: Von Miller, Texas A&M
LB: Keenan Robinson, Texas
LB: Brian Duncan, Texas Tech
DB: Prince Amukamara, Nebraska
DB: Aaron Williams, Texas
DB: Quinton Carter, Oklahoma
DB: Blake Gideon, Texas
DB: Curtis Brown, Texas
P: Derek Epperson, Baylor
PR: Ryan Broyles, Oklahoma
A few notes/thoughts from the team:
- Only three players were unanimous selections: Jared Crick, Travis Lewis and Jeremy Beal. Other guys I'm surprised didn't earn that distinction: Ryan Broyles at receiver, Aaron Williams, Von Miller and Nate Solder.
- Ties at linebacker, defensive back and offensive line forced the conference to make room for an extra spot.
- The media's opinion of DeMarco Murray is somewhat divided, so I was a little unsure who would nab the second spot on the ballot. I'd be interested to see how close it was between him, Roy Helu, Kendall Hunter and Alexander Robinson.
- Home run selection of Toney Clemons as Newcomer of the Year. If I'm guessing, the fact that he was the No. 1 pick in Colorado's spring game helped him earn this honor. An action like that by players speaks pretty loudly.
- I definitely prefer football over basketball in these situations, which doesn't have to deal with freshmen on the preseason all-conference team.
- I'm interested in how close the vote was between Missouri's Grant Ressel and Nebraska's Alex Henery. Henery's punting skills make him the clearly more valuable player, but talking strictly place-kicking, it's pretty close, and Ressel's additional accuracy is quantifiable.
1. Oklahoma - 7
2. Texas - 6
3. Nebraska - 4
3. Texas A&M - 4
5. Missouri - 2
5. Colorado - 2
7. Baylor - 1
7. Kansas - 1
7. Kansas State - 1
7. Texas Tech - 1
11. Oklahoma State - 0
11. Iowa State - 0
More team-themed Mailbags:
And feel free to check out an earlier Mailbag heavy on the Huskers.
Dave in Kansas City, MO writes: Is it just me, or is Nebraska going to end up being WAYYYY overrated? I don't care what anyone says, it defies logic to say the defense will be better after losing the most dominant player in the NCAA last season. How much better do you think Ndamukong Suh made everyone else look, taking up double teams, still getting to the QB, and leading the team in tackles despite being a DT? That never happens. Also, this is pretty much the same offense that scored 17 points or less 6 times last year, including that 9-7 barn burner against ISU... I say there's a strong possibility they will have already lost 1-2 games by the time they play Texas, and they finish the season unranked. Your thoughts?
David Ubben: Well, the potential is there if Nebraska’s offense isn’t a lot better and the defense isn’t as good as Bo Pelini says it is. Nebraska had a great team last year that lost a lot of close games, but they’re still relying a bit on potential this year, replacing starters in the secondary and of course, Ndamukong Suh. They also obviously need the quarterback play to be a lot better.
But the offensive line brings back four starters from last year’s unit that was already pretty good. You’d be surprised how much better that can make guys like Zac Lee and Roy Helu look when they have time and holes to work with. I think the offense will be better, and it doesn’t make much sense for Bo Pelini to be talking up his defense like he has been if he didn’t feel strongly that those players could validate him. And the man knows defense. We know this.
So overall, I don’t think I agree with you. The potential for letdown is there, but if Nebraska gets past Washington—and I think it will—the Huskers should be undefeated when Texas comes to town.
Diggs1911 in Atlanta, Ga. writes: I live here in Atl, but was born in Nebraska and am a fan for life. I was wondering if Nebraska will turn one of its quarterbacks from the 2011 class into a receiver or a running back. One more question: Is this 2010-2011 class good enough to compete in the Big 10 in the comming years?
DU: I could see that instead of a transfer, like I predicted earlier. The most likely scenario would be Jamal Turner, who’s classified as an athlete in recruiting, moving to receiver. But right now, they’re both coming in as quarterbacks and both sound like they want the job. Starling’s status is somewhat up in the air, but if I had to guess, I think he comes to Nebraska to usher in the Big Ten Era in Lincoln. That said, as a Kansas guy, he might not see as much romanticism in "playing for Nebraska" as a kid from Lincoln, Omaha or a small town in Nebraska.
Jon Weinhold in Omaha, Neb. writes: Okay Dave, time to lay it on the line. How successful do you think a wildcat offense would really be for the Huskers this season, and how much of the success of the Holiday Bowl was related to the fact that Arizona most likely was caught totally off guard?
DU: That might be part of it, but the Wildcat’s going to be a really small part of the Nebraska offense unless the quarterbacks really struggle. I’ve mentioned this on here before, but unique schemes like that become less effective the more you use them. But running Taylor Martinez, Cody Green or Rex Burkhead back there a few times a game against the best defenses the Huskers will face seems like a good estimate.
Don Bowers in Oklahoma City, Okla writes: Follow up question: After I start work in August, how do you recommend I read your ridiculously awesome blog at work without getting caught? I really look forward to keeping up with the [insert team: Nebraska] content. (Admittedly, another lame attempt at fitting your Nebraska prompt). Thanks.
DU: Once again, flattery will get you everywhere on the Big 12 blog. As for your situation, I don't have any practical suggestions, only a statement: Few things are nobler than martyrdom. But don't let me tell you what to do.
Nate Gleaves in Lincoln, Neb. writes: Isn't this the easiest schedule the Huskers have had in a while?
DU: It’s lining up that way. I don’t know that I’d describe it as “easy,” but it’s set the Huskers up for a nice run during what should be a peak year. Going to Washington isn’t going to be simple, but its toughest games (Texas and Missouri) are in Lincoln. The only other big hurdle will be an itchy Texas A&M team in the middle of a brutal run at the end of the season that should have racked up a great record by then without playing any of the top teams in the Big 12 yet. The Aggies play Oklahoma, Nebraska and Texas in November. Nebraska got a nice draw in not having to play Oklahoma, but they might see the Sooners in Dallas at the title game.
Andy in Edmond, Okla. writes: Other than QB (which has been talked to death), which unit's improvement is most critical to Nebraska becoming a national contender?
DU: Nebraska is pretty solid just about everywhere but receiver. Niles Paul should be reasonably reliable, but guys like Brandon Kinnie and Curenski Gilleylen need to make life easier for Zac Lee. Moving sure-handed tight end Mike McNeill to a flex-type position was a good call. He should be a nice security blanket underneath for whoever wins the QB battle.
Bobby in Fort Campbell, Ky. writes: David, do you believe that Nebraska's offense will be as vanilla as it was last year? I think they can win every game on their schedule if the offense looks like it did in the Holiday Bowl...
DU: Nah, they’re going to open it up a lot more. I wrote about that in detail this spring, if you’d like to give it a read. They'll try to look like they did in the bowl game, and you're right, if it does, that's going to get them pretty close to my best-case scenario for the Huskers.
Adam in Omaha, Neb. asks: Why is Nebraska running away from the Big 12? are they afraid they can't compete anymore?
DU: No.
And feel free to check out an earlier Mailbag heavy on the Huskers.
Dave in Kansas City, MO writes: Is it just me, or is Nebraska going to end up being WAYYYY overrated? I don't care what anyone says, it defies logic to say the defense will be better after losing the most dominant player in the NCAA last season. How much better do you think Ndamukong Suh made everyone else look, taking up double teams, still getting to the QB, and leading the team in tackles despite being a DT? That never happens. Also, this is pretty much the same offense that scored 17 points or less 6 times last year, including that 9-7 barn burner against ISU... I say there's a strong possibility they will have already lost 1-2 games by the time they play Texas, and they finish the season unranked. Your thoughts?
David Ubben: Well, the potential is there if Nebraska’s offense isn’t a lot better and the defense isn’t as good as Bo Pelini says it is. Nebraska had a great team last year that lost a lot of close games, but they’re still relying a bit on potential this year, replacing starters in the secondary and of course, Ndamukong Suh. They also obviously need the quarterback play to be a lot better.
But the offensive line brings back four starters from last year’s unit that was already pretty good. You’d be surprised how much better that can make guys like Zac Lee and Roy Helu look when they have time and holes to work with. I think the offense will be better, and it doesn’t make much sense for Bo Pelini to be talking up his defense like he has been if he didn’t feel strongly that those players could validate him. And the man knows defense. We know this.
So overall, I don’t think I agree with you. The potential for letdown is there, but if Nebraska gets past Washington—and I think it will—the Huskers should be undefeated when Texas comes to town.
Diggs1911 in Atlanta, Ga. writes: I live here in Atl, but was born in Nebraska and am a fan for life. I was wondering if Nebraska will turn one of its quarterbacks from the 2011 class into a receiver or a running back. One more question: Is this 2010-2011 class good enough to compete in the Big 10 in the comming years?
DU: I could see that instead of a transfer, like I predicted earlier. The most likely scenario would be Jamal Turner, who’s classified as an athlete in recruiting, moving to receiver. But right now, they’re both coming in as quarterbacks and both sound like they want the job. Starling’s status is somewhat up in the air, but if I had to guess, I think he comes to Nebraska to usher in the Big Ten Era in Lincoln. That said, as a Kansas guy, he might not see as much romanticism in "playing for Nebraska" as a kid from Lincoln, Omaha or a small town in Nebraska.
Jon Weinhold in Omaha, Neb. writes: Okay Dave, time to lay it on the line. How successful do you think a wildcat offense would really be for the Huskers this season, and how much of the success of the Holiday Bowl was related to the fact that Arizona most likely was caught totally off guard?
DU: That might be part of it, but the Wildcat’s going to be a really small part of the Nebraska offense unless the quarterbacks really struggle. I’ve mentioned this on here before, but unique schemes like that become less effective the more you use them. But running Taylor Martinez, Cody Green or Rex Burkhead back there a few times a game against the best defenses the Huskers will face seems like a good estimate.
Don Bowers in Oklahoma City, Okla writes: Follow up question: After I start work in August, how do you recommend I read your ridiculously awesome blog at work without getting caught? I really look forward to keeping up with the [insert team: Nebraska] content. (Admittedly, another lame attempt at fitting your Nebraska prompt). Thanks.
DU: Once again, flattery will get you everywhere on the Big 12 blog. As for your situation, I don't have any practical suggestions, only a statement: Few things are nobler than martyrdom. But don't let me tell you what to do.
Nate Gleaves in Lincoln, Neb. writes: Isn't this the easiest schedule the Huskers have had in a while?
DU: It’s lining up that way. I don’t know that I’d describe it as “easy,” but it’s set the Huskers up for a nice run during what should be a peak year. Going to Washington isn’t going to be simple, but its toughest games (Texas and Missouri) are in Lincoln. The only other big hurdle will be an itchy Texas A&M team in the middle of a brutal run at the end of the season that should have racked up a great record by then without playing any of the top teams in the Big 12 yet. The Aggies play Oklahoma, Nebraska and Texas in November. Nebraska got a nice draw in not having to play Oklahoma, but they might see the Sooners in Dallas at the title game.
Andy in Edmond, Okla. writes: Other than QB (which has been talked to death), which unit's improvement is most critical to Nebraska becoming a national contender?
DU: Nebraska is pretty solid just about everywhere but receiver. Niles Paul should be reasonably reliable, but guys like Brandon Kinnie and Curenski Gilleylen need to make life easier for Zac Lee. Moving sure-handed tight end Mike McNeill to a flex-type position was a good call. He should be a nice security blanket underneath for whoever wins the QB battle.
Bobby in Fort Campbell, Ky. writes: David, do you believe that Nebraska's offense will be as vanilla as it was last year? I think they can win every game on their schedule if the offense looks like it did in the Holiday Bowl...
DU: Nah, they’re going to open it up a lot more. I wrote about that in detail this spring, if you’d like to give it a read. They'll try to look like they did in the bowl game, and you're right, if it does, that's going to get them pretty close to my best-case scenario for the Huskers.
Adam in Omaha, Neb. asks: Why is Nebraska running away from the Big 12? are they afraid they can't compete anymore?
DU: No.
ABOUT THIS BLOG
David Ubben
Ubben joined ESPN.com in March 2010 after covering Big 12 football for two seasons at the Columbia Missourian and The Oklahoman. Ubben, a native of Springdale, Ark., lives in Dallas.
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