The Nebraska Cornhuskers are in dire need of a win Saturday afternoon. Let’s face it, the Huskers’ postseason life is on the line against the Minnesota Golden Gophers. The Huskers currently have four losses, but a fifth defeat before the college football season hits November could be the death knell for Nebraska’s postseason hopes. If they are going to end their two game losing streak, this game will come down to the play of quarterback Tommy Armstrong.
So far, it’s been a tale of two seasons in the first six games for Armstrong. During the non conference portion of the schedule, Armstrong had 11 touchdown passes and five interceptions. Since conference play started, Armstrong hasn’t connected with anybody on a consistent basis. He has a touchdown and an interception in 120 minutes of action. More importantly, defenses have held the Huskers to 35 percent passing over the first two Big Ten games.
If you haven’t heard, Minnesota’s pass defense is one of the best around. They have a front seven willing to get after the quarterback. Meanwhile, their defensive backs play great coverage. Therefore, Nebraska is going to need some big plays throughout the day. Why? It’s hard to envision the Huskers consistently throwing the ball against a team that only gives up 163 yards passing per game.
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During the first two Big Ten contests, Armstrong has gained 117 passing yards per game. Those numbers do not bode well for the Huskers’ offense. Where can they find openings against this Minnesota defense? Well, Armstrong has to use his ability to run. These plays don’t have to be designed runs. In fact, Armstrong will likely have more success in scramble drills if he trusts his legs. Otherwise, the Huskers will be stuck in the same cycle as the first two conference games.
Even though Armstrong is the quarterback, and the most recognizable offensive weapon, he needs plenty of help from his wide receivers. Early in the season, the WR unit was one of the deepest in the country. Now they are looking like an underachieving group. Was it fools gold in the non conference portion of the schedule? It can’t be. Everyone of these players have the ability to make things happen, and it’s time to step up to the plate.
Jordan Westerkamp has to regain his confidence early. He hasn’t been a factor since the return of De’Mornay Pierson-El. In total, Westerkamp has three catches for 16 yards in the first two Big Ten games. Meanwhile Pierson-El has three catches for 37 yards. As the Huskers two most explosive players, they need to dominate their match ups on Saturday.
The entire group of wide receivers have to win their match ups. They can’t afford any dropped passes, and they can’t afford to stay covered for whole possessions. If that’s the case, Armstrong will have another 10/31 passing type of day, because Mike Riley is going to continue to throw the ball.
Therefore, don’t expect a heavy dose of the running game by Nebraska. Sure, they’ll get over 30 rushing attempts, but they aren’t trying grind it out against the Golden Gophers’ defense.