A Look Back: Nebraska-ISU 2009

Revenge!

This is the infamous game that saw the Nebraska Cornhuskers turn the ball over 8 times en route to a 9-7 defeat at the hands of the Iowa State Cyclones.

It was one of the most dominating losses I can ever remember watching. It was similar to playing a game of Madden (or NCAA), late in the season, when you’re like 9-0, and the computer steps in and tells you there is no way you’re winning this game. Anyone who has ever played knows what I’m talking about. Only, there was no reset button for Nebraska to push (nah, I never did that).

So what happened?

(More…………)

Well, the very first play of the game was a Roy Helu fumble (sound familiar? Yes, Texas game started that way for the Nebraska offense. So, as long as we don’t start games like that we should be fine.).

The Huskers turned the ball over within the Cyclones’ 5 yard line four different times! Think about that. Two of those turnovers occurred as a Husker was nearing the end zone only to fumble into the end zone and watch a Cyclone recover it for a touchback.

Five of Nebraska’s six second half possessions ended in a turnover. Hard to win like that against North Dakota St. (sorry KU), let alone a conference opponent.

It was an absolute nightmare of a game where every little aspect of the game had to go a certain way for the Cyclones to win the game. If Nebraska turns it over only seven times, there’s a great chance they win the game.

The ironic part of the situation, is the similarities between this game last year and the Texas game this year. They will probably end up with similar 6-6 records. Hopefully, this does not become a tradition under Bo Pelini.

The problem for that game was certainly a lack of focus and motivation, ultimately stemming from a disrespect of the opponent. “We can’t lose to these guys.” That won’t, or at least SHOULDN’T, be a problem this time around. If it is, then Pelini deserves all the blame.

However, I could easily see Nebraska not looking past the Cyclones and the game still be close. They are a much improved team from last year, and are led by a coach that I like an awful lot, Paul Rhoads, who gave us this gem after the Nebraska game last year (don’t be afraid to embrace it Husker Nation-it’s a sign of respect to be such a big deal when you’re defeated)….

Remember it, respect it, and NEVER let it happen again.

Boom, outta here!