Big Ten rankings: Nebraska Cornhuskers in complete free fall
The Nebraska Cornhuskers were supposed to be much better in Mike Riley’s first season. However, a quick glance at the current Big Ten rankings shows how far the Huskers have to go this season.
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For the third time this year, the Huskers have failed to finish the game with a win. All three losses are by a combined nine points, and coaching seems to be a major issue in coach Riley’s first season. There’s no question, decision-making must get better in every aspect of the game.
Nebraska has their heart set on getting the passing game going, and it hasn’t always gone according to plan. This team should run the ball at least 40 times a game. Anything less, turns into a problem for the Huskers. The best teams around the country have a go-to running back. The Huskers are wishy-washy at best about using the ground game. It’s time to be more decisive.
Defensively, the Huskers made plenty of strides in the loss to Illinois, but they couldn’t get the stop in the final minute. They shouldn’t have been on the field, but the Blackshirts still gave up two fourth quarter touchdowns last Saturday. In the same fashion as the offense, they must learn how to finish.
Ezekiel Elliott
The reason why the Huskers are so low in the Big Ten rankings aren’t due to a lack of talent. Not one of these losses had to do with a talent disparity. However, they haven’t had the capability to make big plays in the most dire situations. If they were able to make winning plays, Nebraska would be looked upon as a Big Ten title contender. Instead, the Huskers are one of the worst teams in the conference.
In the last two games, they’ve been outscored 35-7 in the fourth quarter. That’s the mark of a team not capable of finishing well. Only one question remains; Will Nebraska play a complete four quarters this weekend?
Here are the updated Big Ten Rankings. Three of the teams made the College Football “Treat 16” Power Poll.
11. team. 54. Rutgers is coming off of a bye. Hope they have their kick return unit ready. Special teams could be the Scarlet Knights best chance to defeat the Michigan State Spartans.. (2-2). Previous: . Rutgers Scarlet Knights