The Nebraska football great has confidence in the current quarterback.
Nebraska football quarterback Adrian Martinez has had to weather adversity over his first two seasons as quarterback. Although things haven’t necessarily gone his way, he looks to head into his junior season ready to bounce back.
If it was up to him, it would be safe to say that Martinez would not want to have a 9-12 record as a starter. However, let’s be clear. The 9-12 record is not all his fault. There have been several reasons why Nebraska has not been able to put together solid, winning seasons. Martinez is only a small part of the problem.
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Heading into his junior season, Martinez has something to prove. Nebraska football is going to be tasked with a tough schedule, and many fans would love to see them finish with at least a 4-4 record. Anything less than that would be a bit of a disappointment. Even with the expectations so high, there is little doubt that Nebraska football has a difficult schedule.
With all of those factors in play, Martinez received an endorsement from former Nebraska football great Eric Crouch. We all know what Crouch did during his time at Nebraska, and he was one of the most electrifying players on the field. He understands what Martinez is going through. Even still, he has confidence that Martinez will be able to get the job done.
"“Things happen,” Crouch said. “You have to keep fighting through it all. For Adrian, it’s been injuries and losses (9-12 as starter) and not taking care of the football. You just keep fighting for the successful play.”My read is Martinez still has plenty of fight. Crouch agrees. And don’t ever underestimate the importance of “fight.” Remember what we said about defenders literally trying to knock the quarterback from the game? You better be a tough hombre. “"
I certainly have high hopes for Martinez as well. Normally, endorsements to current players from former players do not me a lot to me. After all, the player has to perform no matter what. However, this endorsement from Crouch is a little different. He knows what it’s like to play in the high-pressure environment that is Lincoln, Nebraska. He knows that it’s a tough road, but that can also be rewarding.
Now, Martinez has to prove himself in a tough year with a difficult schedule. You have all seen what Martinez is capable of. There is no doubt he will be under some pressure this year, as he needs to perform at a high level for Nebraska to contend. Anything less than that will mean yet another difficult year for Nebraska.