The Start of Something Special
Who's jacked up and excited for the 2008 season to start? Is anyone else experiencing the following; it's easier to get up in the morning, enjoying your day at work, getting along with your spouse better, sleeping without nightmares? Well for me all of this stuff has been happening to me and I have to think it is a direct result of one thing, the hiring of Bo Pelini. Nebraska has a new coach and from everything I can tell, he's a good one. This past Sunday, Nebraska officially started the Bo Pelini era, the healing has begun. Our legendary coach knew that our storied program was in trouble and he took the first step to make sure it didn't fall any further. Coach Osborne went out across America and interviewed a number of coaches who he thought might be qualified enough to take our beloved Huskers back to the promised land. He narrowed the search to two great coaches and probably had to make one of the toughest decisions of his life. Does he pick the guy who once went to battle for the coach himself or does he pick the guy Nebraska once had but let go? I truly believe either one could have done an exceptional job leading the Huskers but Bo is what the Huskers need right now.
Over the last four years the Huskers biggest problems have been attitude, intensity, passion and playing physical. Bo Pelini can fix these problems. In his years as a coordinator at Nebraska, Oklahoma and LSU, Bo has been known to get his players to play with all of the above characteristics. His players play for him and that is the number one goal as a coach. Get your kids to work hard and play with some passion. All of his ex-players say the same thing, "I'd run through a wall for Coach Pelini". He makes his players work extremely hard but they have a fun time while doing it. Over the years I have watched some games that Bo has coached and it's easy to see that he loves his kids and they love him, that goes a long way in the game of football.
This past Sunday while I watched Bo's introductory speech I was very impressed with the following points he made. Knowing he has a legend sitting in an office one floor above him, admitting he won't always have the answers but having the ability to lean on Tom Osborne for some answers. Giving Coach Solich the respect he deserved earned him major points in my book. It was a sign that he understands the Nebraska tradition. He talked about making sure there was the "family" atmosphere amongst the team, that is the only way a team will have success. When I spoke at the '97 reunion dinner that was the main point of my speech, we were a family and would do anything for one another. A reporter asked Bo about recruiting and how he would sell Nebraska to recruits, his answer was "I'll tell them they'll have the opportunity to play at the greatest school in the country". That's the same thing I say to people on my radio show, Nebraska is a special place and to me there isn't another school in the world that I would have wanted to play. The last topic he talked about that caught my ear was his desire to make sure the walk-on program is built back up and returns to being the backbone of the program. In my days at the University I learned a large part of my work ethic from the walk-ons. They were kids that waited their entire lives for the opportunity to run out in Memorial Stadium and they were going to work as hard as they could to achieve that dream. If they were willing to give 110% every time they walked out on the field, all the while nobody really expected them to succeed, how could I give any less. If it wasn't for the walk-on program I don't know if I would have become the player I did.
To finish up here, I think with Bo's knowledge of defense and his desire to be directly involved in calling the defense I don't see why we wouldn't have an opportunity to win all of our games next year. Bo doesn't care what you did in high school, he doesn't care how many stars you had next to your name, the only thing that matters to him is if your willing to work and give everything you have. There is enough talent down at the Tom Osborne Athletic Center to win games, now with the right leader in charge I think the Huskers are back in business.
Later, JP
jasonpeter.com
Over the last four years the Huskers biggest problems have been attitude, intensity, passion and playing physical. Bo Pelini can fix these problems. In his years as a coordinator at Nebraska, Oklahoma and LSU, Bo has been known to get his players to play with all of the above characteristics. His players play for him and that is the number one goal as a coach. Get your kids to work hard and play with some passion. All of his ex-players say the same thing, "I'd run through a wall for Coach Pelini". He makes his players work extremely hard but they have a fun time while doing it. Over the years I have watched some games that Bo has coached and it's easy to see that he loves his kids and they love him, that goes a long way in the game of football.
This past Sunday while I watched Bo's introductory speech I was very impressed with the following points he made. Knowing he has a legend sitting in an office one floor above him, admitting he won't always have the answers but having the ability to lean on Tom Osborne for some answers. Giving Coach Solich the respect he deserved earned him major points in my book. It was a sign that he understands the Nebraska tradition. He talked about making sure there was the "family" atmosphere amongst the team, that is the only way a team will have success. When I spoke at the '97 reunion dinner that was the main point of my speech, we were a family and would do anything for one another. A reporter asked Bo about recruiting and how he would sell Nebraska to recruits, his answer was "I'll tell them they'll have the opportunity to play at the greatest school in the country". That's the same thing I say to people on my radio show, Nebraska is a special place and to me there isn't another school in the world that I would have wanted to play. The last topic he talked about that caught my ear was his desire to make sure the walk-on program is built back up and returns to being the backbone of the program. In my days at the University I learned a large part of my work ethic from the walk-ons. They were kids that waited their entire lives for the opportunity to run out in Memorial Stadium and they were going to work as hard as they could to achieve that dream. If they were willing to give 110% every time they walked out on the field, all the while nobody really expected them to succeed, how could I give any less. If it wasn't for the walk-on program I don't know if I would have become the player I did.
To finish up here, I think with Bo's knowledge of defense and his desire to be directly involved in calling the defense I don't see why we wouldn't have an opportunity to win all of our games next year. Bo doesn't care what you did in high school, he doesn't care how many stars you had next to your name, the only thing that matters to him is if your willing to work and give everything you have. There is enough talent down at the Tom Osborne Athletic Center to win games, now with the right leader in charge I think the Huskers are back in business.
Later, JP
jasonpeter.com
I have been waiting all week for this message, Jason! I know u have been busy, but I couldn't wait for this! Have been checking Hourly! This is the RENEWAL. I WANT YOU ON THE STAFF!! That will MAKE A DIFFERENCE! Thanks for all you do and for all you have/will do!
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Julie I apologize for the delay. I figured everybody and their mother would be writing on the same topic these first couple of days so I wanted to make sure my message was different. I will be completely honest with you regarding the staff, it's probably not going to happen. Why you ask, because Bo's brother Carl is a defensive line coach as well. Carl is coming to Nebraska. Do I think the defensive line job is one that you give to somebody because of bloodlines, absolutely not. It's the most important job on defense, you witnessed this past year what happens to a defense when the defensive line is not prepared. I think they'll probably get better as a group with the change but will they become a great defensive line, I'll wait to make that call. It just wasn't meant to happen this time around as a coach. JP
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I have waited four years for this to happen. After Neb let Bo slip away the first time, I never thought I would see the day come again. I will tell you what I am the most excited about.... I will no longer have to scroll through the crappy video quality on You Tube to get a glimpse from the past of the physical Neb team I loved and stood up for while I grew up in Oklahoma. I would like to see the hands of all of you who spent more time watching old You Tube videos of Tommy Frazier and the Black Shirts than you spent watching Neb play this year. lol Here is a You Tube link to the good old days, the 1996 Fiesta Bowl, you guys may even see a Peter in here.
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Thanks for the video BMiles. It will be nice to finally see some physical play out of our team and especially the Blackshirts. Hopefully there will be enough big plays and big hits this year to make some new Husker video's on You tube. JP
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Like BMiles wrote, I've waited 4 years for this as well. The day they announced BC as coach I had a bad feeling for what was going to happen to the program, but like most people I decided I'd give him a chance. Then I watched one of his Coach Callahan Shows after a loss, and he said that he called to right plays to have the players in the right position, they just didn't execute. That stement right there made me hate the guy, how can you blame the players? That is the first rule of coaching, don't blame the players. From there on out I was counting the days until he was gone. Now 4 years later it's finnaly happened, and we got the coach that we wanted in the first place, and the coach that I believe will bring us back.
I believe that there will be a few ups and downs over the next couple of years, but we will never again lose a game because of a lack of effort. It feels good to have the thought that we will go into every game competeing with anyone we play, and have a chance to win any game we play. I'm allready excited for the next season. To be honest it's been awhile since I've been this excited about NE football.
We as a state have been truly blessed to have a man like Tom Osborne leading the way. Thank god he is back, and thank god Bo is back.
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Well said, Double Nickle. I don't want to get into win-loss expectations for next year since it's such a long way away. However, in watching Bo coach in the past and listening to him Sunday, I feel comfortable saying that the days of lackluster performances will be a thing of the past.
We know for sure that we'll see a Nebraska team play with a lot more passion and a lot more heart. That alone will be worth three more wins than last year.
Keep up the good work.
--Vince
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Tom Osborne won the GREATEST COACHES POLL. Any wonder?
http://proxy.espn.go.com/espn/specialsection/citirosebowl/2007/sendFriend
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Congrats to Coach Osborne! I feel very privileged to have had the opportunity to play for him, he is truly one of a kind. JP
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I can only speak for a small portion of the state in the panhandle. But, I don't understand the logic of "How can we trust T.O. to hire a good coach, when he hand picked Solich". Solich won 75% of his games people!! If that staff had been given a chance they would still be here.
Also, this hiring seems to have divided people a little between Gill and Pelini. To the point of people rooting against Bo just to prove themselves right. The program is bigger than our own egos and who we think should be coach. I hope now that it's over we can all root for the same goal!!
jlr
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Good point, I am not sure why people were so down on Coach Solich, if they knew him as a person and as a coach on a daily basis, I doubt they would have
anything but respect for him.
People seem to convienently dismiss or forget all his yrs of hard work and dedication in helping build Nebraska into what it was at the time he took over...T.O. turned it over to him because it was the right thing to do.
Plus Solich had new rules to deal with like the 85 scholarship limit rule, and other new ncaa rules, I think they changed how many players could travel too, lots of new rules to try and level the playing field.
Well I was pushing hard for Gill, and in a way I am still sad that he didn't get it, but at the same time how can anyone not be excited about what Bo brings to the table...Listening to interviews of former players now in the NFL about Bo and watching his press conference gave me new insight and renewed enthusiasm about the future.
I have no problem supporting Bo and his staff and I think Turner will continue doing great things there at Buffalo. I think everyone wins, Nebraska players, Nebraska fans, the
Buffalo players and fans for sure win, Turner is in a really good situation and they love him there...he will be a legend before he's done there.
I'm very excited about our future under this staff.
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My heart decided on Turner; but Bo is terrific! We just need Jason there, too!
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Jasen, I hope everybody can come together because a Nation divided will eventually fall. The decision has been made and we all need to give our full support. JP
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It's hard to imagine that this entire situation could not be right. Coach evaluated the situation and hired the right man for the job at hand: Bringing back the Black Shirts!
Keep up the good work, JP.
Eddie Lee Funn
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Jason, I am all jacked up for the 08 season! Bo is the right choice, you can see the enthusiasm and urgency pouring out of him! He is a great coordinater He took our d from 55 to 11 last time he was here. The next year we were right back to 56th. Should have never let him go. Maybee the black shirts will earn back the respect they lost this past 4 years. What offense do you think will be run? I know pelini said he wasn't for sure but it would be multiple. I hope it is a spread option attack, but not like the west virginia oregon version. It is't physical enough and there is to much enphasis on the qb running. Moblie is good but the pounding they take is to much and cost some teams in the long run like oregon and WV. I think the spread offense is a fad that will fade down in a few years when defenses catch up. Well man happy holidays and Go Big Red! Prayers tothe people in Omaha! Later 55
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Tyler, I think we will see a little spread and a little west coast to start but over time I would expect to see more of the spread with an emphasis on the running game. Whatever we end up doing I imagine it will be a physical version. I know both Bo and T.O. both believe in physical football so don't expect us to throw the ball 60 times a game. I am also praying for the people in Omaha. JP
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Thanks Jason for the prayers, we Omahans appreciate it. I totally trust Coach Osborne. Was on the fence between Bo and Turner initially, but I am sure he has made the right choice. I am very excited for the 08 season. Thanks
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Jason, would you entertain the idea of being a GA at Nebraska to start out with? I know the pay isn't great, but you could get your foot in the door, have a huge impact on our players by showing them the Nebraska way, and who knows what it would lead to. Personally, I would love to see that and I hope you give Coach Osborne a call to tell him of your interest. Nobody fires up a D-line like Double Nickel!
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Here here!
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I have been meaning to ask the same question, I think this would be the perfect time for you to get involved in coaching as you would become a tremendous asset in teaching these guys the tradition of the black shirts form back in the day. In addition, these guys would worship your every word as you plaid on the team that has been voted time and time again as the best college football team ever. These guys need to know how the JP and Winstrom leadership raised the level of play of the black shirts to a level never thought possible.
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Yes! Yes! Jason, please do this! Your knowledge and experience is needed on Tom Osborn Field! Am waiting for this to happen!
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Julie, Thanks for your support. I don't think Bo is interested in interviewing any d-line coaches. He has already brought in his brother to coach the d-line. JP
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Yes, I realize this. BUT WE NEED YOU, JASON!
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Julie, I wish something could be done as well. Part of being the Head Coach is that you get to decide who your assistants will be. Bo is bringing his brother and he's coaching the d-line. You never know what will happen in the future, if they need me I'll be here. JP
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Jason, obviously I don't know you personally but I wonder if you give yourself enough credit sometimes. I mean, you were a legend at Neb, it has been what, 10 or 11 years since you last played for Neb and everyone still knows who you are and the leadership you provided that helped make the Black Shirts so successful those years. Considering your understanding of the Black Shirt tradition in which you played an important role in pushing to the next level and the experience you can share from those years you were there, I would just think if you could just get your foot in that door then your passion for Neb and the Black Shirts will just take over and you will just blossom. I just couldn't imagine that after what you had the privilege to experience for such a short time, that you would not use your reputation and connections to make hat experience an ever lasting experience. Sorry if I am being pushy, I just have a lot of respect for you and believe you are capable of still doing even greater things at Neb than you did in the 90's.
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BMiles, thank you for recognizing all the hard work and effort that I put in here at the university. I had an amazing time and played with some great players. I would have loved to have had an opportunity to coach some of these kids on the team. The way the staff unfolded it wasn't meant to be this time around. I will continue to stay in their sight and hopefully someday something can get worked out. JP
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Nice take JP. You nailed the key points from the Bo conference.
Enjoy your show. I try to catch it on the net most days. Any chance you guys will carry the show on XM's ESPN radio?
Your absolutely right...work has been tough the year....co-worker's are new to Nebraskans, so I had to give them a pre-season warning. They always check Monday and then leave me alone after a loss
What is Carl P going to have to do to get the DL to play better? It was a glaring weak spot in '07!
I was born in Ft. Dix, N.J. Raised in 6 Co. Nebraska, and I won't deny being the dude roaming the campus of UNL from '93-'95 with my rotti,,,
Speed Limit
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P.S. I too think we have a shot to win all our games next year.
It helps when your coach expects to win every game...I think?
GO BIG RED!!!
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Jason, what's the feeling like for the former players like yourself? Are you anxious to go back and fire up the current kids on gamedays? It seemed the former staff kinda gave you all the cold shoulder.
Also, do you talk with Minter? He lives near me, sad to see him retire this year, Panthers really could've used him.
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Scott, now that T.O. is back in charge all of the ex-players have been invited back into the program. There definitely was a wall put up with the old staff. I spoke to Mike after his retirement and he definitely is a player that the Panthers miss, he was a great player. JP
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JP - Oh yes! I'm jacked like a six-pack of Red Bull. Amen, amen and amen for the new hire. It's feeling like Nebraska around here.
In Italy they had Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.
In Switzerland they have the cuckoo clock.
In NEBRASKA - we have BLACKSHIRTS & SMASH MOUTH football!
God bless ya JP. You're a true inspiration.
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Jason, like you we are all excited about what the future holds. While I'm not sure I believe that we can win all our games next year, I believe that our players will play their hearts out - something that we as fans really want as much or more than we want the wins.
I think the whole "spread" vs "WCO" debate is silly. What offense will we run next year under Watson? We'll run a WCO style offense, but rather than running a system, we'll run a set of packages that feature our players. Look at what Watson did with the CU offense while he was there - they played to the strengths of their team. Throwing a lot with Klatt, and running with two tight end sets when they had Brown. Watson will tailor the offense to the strengths of the players. If anything, the offense is likely to be better next year as all the guys become playmakers.
Remember when the first play of the Callahan era spring game was a deep pass and the crowd cheered? How loud will the cheer be this spring when the first play is a two tight end set trap?
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Charles, I don't think it will matter what formation Bo lines up his offense on the first play, fans are going to be excited and ready to cheer. I don't think we will win all of our games next year either but if there is a defensive turnaround like there was in 2003 we can at least give ourselves an opportunity to win each game. Winning is a trait that is learned, knowing how to finish an opponent, not being shaken if a team jumps up on you early, these are all things that Bo has to teach our players. If App. St. can beat Michigan and Ball St. can out play Nebraska it wouldn't be that crazy to think Nebraska would have an opportunity to win all their games. JP
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I too am very excited and optimistic about the '08 football season; who wouldn't be? Afterall, our new head coach is the only NCAA Division 1 coach to have a perfect win/loss record!!!!
On a more important subject than football....My prayers to all affected by the senseless atrocious acts of one exceedingly disturbed individual. May God grant peace, strength, and healing to all the family and friends of those whose lives have been shattered. Godspeed to the Von Maur owners as well.
Merry Christmas!!!!
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Amen, 55.
Bo Pelini told us everything we wanted and needed to hear during that press conference. It about brought tears to my eyes thinking "Finally... someone who understands what this is and how this needs done" I especially enjoyed how he talked about how we're going to be great again not through shortcuts, but hard work. Certainly half-pads, no scrimmaging, and no practices on Mondays are a thing of the past.
Do you expect any growing pains out of this though? Sounds like recruiting has already picked up. Do you expect any diva players to transfer out? Just curious, as the atmosphere is definitely going to change from Callahan kissing their asses to some intensity and hard work. It can be pretty easy to be intense with someone buzzing in your ear like my Drill Instructors used to.
Sorry to hear you won't be joining the staff, but I really do hope it happens in the future. Hopefully it won't have to happen at the expense of someone else's failure. Do you know if any other players will be assisting? I'm happy to know that our legendary players like yourself, our players that were continuous highlight reels, once again feel welcome. Always hurt as a fan that they'd make you feel unwelcome. Guys like you built this house. Stay as long as you like.
Finally, thoughts and prayers to the Omaha victims and their families. Thoughts and prayers to the killer and his family too.
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Jason,
IMO, Callahan's style of offense created the soft defense we experienced this year. However, I believe that the failure to embrace Husker traditions and culture were the final nails in his coffin.
I'm not certain Bo is the best coach for Nebraska, but I do believe that he is the best coach for Nebraska right now. I am confident that he will bring back the swagger to our beloved Blackshirt defense. I am already looking forward to next fall!
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Jason, awesome blog! It sounds like your are doing great. If you can remember, we had a great time in Vegas a few years back. If you are ever back in AZ, look me up! BTW, kick Rezac in the nuts next time you see him.
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I agree with you Jason. There will be an immediate change in the defense. And the concept of family is what it is all about, Urban Meyer said the same thing, Les Miles, and this culture is what drove winning for 41 yrs. for the Huskers. Who knows down the road, I'd love to see you or Christian or Grant motivating the defensive line...wow. To quote BC, "I'm amped,geeked, and psyched up" for the 2008 season. We WILL be in a bowl next year.
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delusional to think you'll go undefeated next year. least you forget the thrashing you took at missouri and kansas. both of those teams are loaded next year, so there's 2 loses right there. nice that you think a new coach will suddenly turn your horrible team around, but guess again, unless you plan on scrapping your whole team and starting over, next year will be a nother dismal failure. nice try.
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Scott born, I never said they will go undefeated next year, I said they should have an opportunity to win all their games. This is a team that has talent, enough talent to compete. If Bo can have an immediate impact on the defense the way he did in the 2003 season, what makes you think they wouldn't have an opportunity to win their games. Their first real test will be Virginia Tech at home, the same V.T. team that scored 7 points on LSU's defense early in the year. I don't think Bo is a magician and can magically make them a National Championship team. The players will decide how many games they want to win next year but if you think Missouri and Kansas are going to put up similar performances against the Huskers the way they did this past year your crazy. JP
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Of course missouri and kansas will be favored in the north next year, and colorado and Ia state and ks state will be improved. Hopefully the coaches and players won't have a negative mindset, Pelini won't allow it. If you're not on board, get off the bus and give your place to someone else.
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I heard Bo on Jim Rome today, and damn man I'm ready to run through a wall for Bo. I was on the road driving, and I just wanted to stop my pickup, get out and tackle the next car that drove by. It's nice to have a coach who says what he means, and means what he says. You defenitly get the sense that ORDER HAS BEEN RESTORED. Not the BC way, but the Nebraska way. I don't know if Bo will take us back to where we were in the 90's but I know that the principals and the tradition, and culture that we had in the 90's, and that were established in the 70's and 80's will be embraced again and that gives us a great chance to be great again. Good write up JP. On the money as always.
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Jason,
Man, I'm totally psyched I found you blog. Like you, I can't wait for next season and for the pads to start poppin' in Lincoln again - Its been too quiet! I love the fact that Bo gave props out to the former staff - love the loyalty shown to Ron Brown. Those guys deserved more respect than they got and now their time is due. Can't wait for next season to begin - GBR.
HIT OR BE HIT!!!!
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Jason,
I was upset at the firing of the Solich coaches and was even more upset with the new head coach Pederson picked. I wasn’t too fond of Pederson either. Getting rid of these punks healed almost all the wounds created by the Pederson era.
I feel great about the new staff. I have a few concerns but most of this staff will teach these kids to hit somebody. It seems as if Bo and Tom are going to have a great time getting this team together. Anyone else get the feeling Tom is enjoying his recruiting trips and getting back to Nebraska football. I am feeling better with Tom recruiting for us.
Immortal words from Fresno state “Shut Up and Hit Somebody”. I think that was their slogan.
Thanks,
Eric
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I'll raise my hand to that. I also watched the highlight of the 2003 alamo bowl and watched how the players seemed to gravitate towards Pelini. This is the hire I've been praying for since he left. Something about him gets me fired up
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This is going to be one of the longest offseasons ever. I'll be counting the days until spring practice. I think the spring game is a must this year. I haven't been this excited in years!
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Yes, the spring game is a must this year.
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JP, you still didn't say if you would be interested in a Graduate Assistant role if the opportunity presented itself, would that be something you would consider????
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Matt, Sorry I didn't answer your question earlier. No, I wouldn't be interested in doing a GA position. I say that because when I first started coaching three years ago I called Coach McBride and asked him if I needed to do a GA year. He said not if you want to coach D-Line. He told me my time at Nebraska along with my time in the NFL more than makes up a GA year. Coaching the d-line is the only position I have a desire for. JP
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JP55
I am so glad that you have returned to us. Now, more than ever, we need our former players to return to the trenches and play another down for the Cornhuskers. Only you guys can reestablish the Blackshirts. Fans can't, Coaches can't, only Blackshirts can rebuild the Blackshirts. The Blackshirt fraternity is exclusive to the players. Only you guys can tell a player what it really is to be a Blackshirt. So get back to work and git r done 55.
The greatest defensive play I ever saw by a Blackshirt was not the best play, it ended in fact with a huge play by the opposing offense, I watched our Blackshirt, a walk on, down on all fours pounding the ground because he couldn't get to the QB because he just wasn't fast or good enough. It still brings tears to my eyes when I think of the truly great desire and heart of that player. What more can one ask of a Cornhusker. I have not seen that spirit on the field in a long time.
So again 55 Mama's calling her children to defend her house and they all should heed her call.
Thanks for all the memories you gave us in the past and thanks in advance for all the work you will do.
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I have been wanting to thank you and possibly get some information on your addiction and your recovery. I have been clean for four months now and would like any suggestions that would make my soberity stronger. Thank you and God Bless!
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It will take a while for the stench of Pediocrity to be washed away, but listening to Bo talk is definitely a breath of fresh air!
GBR!!!!!!!!
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Hey Jason,
Great to have you back in the fold. You and your brother where two of my favorite all time Huskers.
Can you give us some updates on what Christian is up to these days and it would be great if you had him on the radio show.
I am really excited about having a great defense again and I think Bo is the guy to get the D roling again.
Most Nebraskan's can accept a offense that struggles, but the D better bring the wood.
Nebraska loves a great defense.
GBR!
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iam4huskers, I am glad to be back in Nebraska, truly a special place. Christian is back in New Jersey, married and raising a couple kids. He is in the restaurant business and really enjoying it. I had him on a couple months ago but I think you're right, I need to have him on again. Nebraskans do love defense, I am so proud to call myself a Blackshirt. JP
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jason, Hey man whats with scott busting your balls on you saying we have a chance to win all of our games next year? I to believe it is possible. Come on who saw the kansas or missouri season turning out that way? Didn't we beat them both a year ago? Has our talent fallen so far behind in 1 year, no! We just lost leadership and the killer instinct. With the propper direction and motivation anything is possible. On to another topic. Do you think Lucky will come back? Hope so we need all the help we can get. Who will step up and be our leaders and playmakers on defense? I think kids like Blake Lawrence, Major Culbert and Ricky Thenarse will benefit from pelini's aggressive attacking defensive philosophy. We need the defensive line to step up and get off blocks, They have everyone back and that has to be good news for Carl Pelini! Happy Holidays Later 55!
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Tyler, glad to see you think like me. You're dead on with leadership, we had none this past year and that played a huge role in the continual slip from the top. That killer instinct is Bo Pelini, he has it and he needs to pass it along to every kid who calls himself a Husker. I think Marlon wants to go to the NFL, I don't really care. I want guys on this team who want to be there. When Wistrom and I were juniors Coach Osborne called us into his office and told us "my NFL sources said you're both first round picks if you want to skip your senior seasons". We went home, sat on the couch and within 2 minutes of talking about it we said "let's come back and win another National Championship". With 2 National Championships under our belt we still wanted to come back. The kids that Cally recruited don't think the same way. A lot of them are here because they thought Nebraska would give them the best opportunity to get to the NFL. Christian, Jared, Grant, myself to name a few, we came to Nebraska to win championships not because it was the fastest ticket to the NFL. I don't know who will shine in Bo's defense, I hope all of them do. I am still waiting for Suh to decide if he wants to be a player, Thenarse is a guy that needs to be on the field, like he said " hopefully the new coach will play the best players". I hope the d-line gets their act together this year. All four are returning so Carl is fortunate that he has experience in the line. Happy Holidays to you as well. JP
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55,
Let's play now.
Finish a hard recruiting class. I understand Watson is a good recruiter.
TO is doing great work for the fans of BIG RED football.
Jason, thanks for helping get us through that old coach. Your "Two Cents" has been a blast.
Hope you stay strong through recruiting season. Will you offer anything as far as recruits? (Two Cents?")
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Owen, I definitely will be doing something on the recruits. I am going to do something real soon on some other stuff I got going on. The recruiting blog will probably be around signing day, just because these kids change their mind like the wind blows and if their not coming to UN, I'm not writing about them. JP
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55,
That's what I wanna here. Look forward to reading you until BO's fall tour starts, and we tee it up again.
I living in Texas never really here about spring game. Will you attend the Game? Practices? Will you write about it? Break down what they are doing in only the way double nickel can do.
How 'bout Steroids in sports?
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huskerbacker, I will definitely be checking out some of the spring practices and for sure I will be at the game. If those are the things you guys want to hear about I will definitely write about it. The steroids issue I am going to talk about in my next blog entry so make sure you check it out. JP
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Dude, needless to say it would be interesting to hear your views.
Blog baby blog.
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it's back to the future with bo!
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Jason,
I agree. When Bo gave respect to Frank Solich, he got my respect. Frank was my hero when I was in high school, and nothing has changed. the tradition is back.
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This is worth reading
Important Notice from the Compliance Office.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I have received a request from Josh While of the University of Nebraska Athletic Department Compliance office to post information about avoiding recruiting violations. That information is quoted below.
Quote:
My name is Josh White and I work in the Nebraska Athletic Department as the Director of Compliance. Recently, we have received some questions from fans about contact with recruits. More specifically, there are rumors of fans posting messages to recruits facebook accounts. While the intent behind these fans actions are good natured, the consequences of this action can be severe for the University and the recruit.
Quote:
Message from the Nebraska Athletic Department Compliance Staff:
On behalf of the University of Nebraska student-athletes, we are so thankful to have your support as we continue to build championship teams in every sport.
Because of the ease in which people communicate online with each other today, we thought an educational message is appropriate to clear up any confusion that exists about contacting recruits.
NCAA rules and regulations are complex to say the least, but one area that is completely straightforward is fan communication with recruits. If any fans, boosters, alumni (or any other supporters) of Nebraska has any contact (e.g., in-person, instant message, posting messages to Facebook, text message, e-mail, fax, etc.) whatsoever with a recruit there are could be serious consequences such as:
The University of Nebraska would have an NCAA violation to report to the NCAA enforcement staff;
The recruit would become ineligible to participate in athletics at Nebraska, and before any of our coaches could continue to contact the recruit, we would have to rule him/her ineligible and then seek reinstatement through the NCAA office; and The fan/booster/alumni involved could jeopardize their standing with the University of Nebraska athletic department.
We know that fans of Nebraska are the most dedicated and supportive in the country so please if you have any questions about NCAA rules, contact our office at anytime at 402.472.2042 or e-mail compliance@huskers.com
Thank you for helping Nebraska Athletics stand by our building blocks of TRADITION, TEAMWORK, and INTEGRITY.
Also, please take the time to read this interview that I did with Gary Bargen from the Compliance Office. If there is any doubt in your mind they would be more than happy to take your call or email and let you know what you can and cannot do.
Here's the link.
The last thing we as Husker fans want to do is make a recruiting violation that costs us a recruit. That almost happened in the recent past and we would all feel bad if it did happen.
__________________
Constructive criticism is helpful, destructive criticism is not.
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Heres the link from the previous post for the Gary Bargen interview.
(http://www.huskerpedia.com/interviews/Gary_Bargen.html)
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Jason,
Whats up with this staff not being able to land any of these recruits? I know a lot of these kids came because of cally and co. but damn. It's seems like cally could recruit from hell but couldn't coach his way out of a wet paper sack. Now we have a staff thats looking like we'll be competing with the lower half of the big twelve as far as recruiting. Thats all people talk about is talent level. I know we played with out emotion this year but how can we compete with sub par talent. Thats what got Frankie fired. Please help set me straight. I hope I'm missing something. Later Darin
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55,
TO did not have spectacular recruiting classes, did he? It is frustrating to see kids change from NU. Especially if they go to the Buffs.
What has that "talent" that Callahan recruited done here in four years at Nebraska? Notre Dame has had some better rated recruiting classes also, with similiar results.
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Jason,
I just read what I wrote and saw something that I don't like. I said how can we compete with sub par talent. I would like to rephrase that statement please. What I should have said is how can we compete with all of our blue chip players decommitting and going straight to our rivals. Again I really want to stress that is not how I wanted to make that statement. Thank you and hopefully I didn't offend anyone.
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Dude, it's a blog. How can you offend anyone. Look up blog in the dictionary and stop thinking you're writing in your mothers diary.
Nut up.
Oh, Merry Christmas 55 to you and yours and have a safe and Happy New Year.
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Jason, I'm excited about next year. With Barry Cotton in the mix, I see the offensive line moving from zone blocking to actually knocking someone oon their butt, I'm not worried about the defense, Bo will get them going in high fashion. I could see a 10 and 2 record next year. I'm not worried about the de-commits, they wern't committed anyway if they choose to go else where.
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JP, I agree we should be in business starting with the 2008 campaign. I don't think we will win them all and as much as it hurts this lifetime Husker fan I think we will lose to 'gasp' Oklahoma in Norman on Nov. 1st. HOWEVER, I have already put $50 up on an 11-1 regular season. As good as I believe the Sooners will be next year I expect we will get to see them again in the Big 12 title game and if anyone can get a team up to beat them Pelini can so I would not be surprised if he gets the win in the Big 12. Either way we should end up playing in a New Years or later bowl next year. I am so excited I can't wait, August will NOT come fast enough.
It will be good to once again see the fire and intensity that characterized yourself and some of the other great blackshirts over the years.
Keep up the good work.
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I can't wait to see what happens in the upcoming season. I have been a Husker fan since I was very young, and this last season was painful to witness. Especially since my husband is a Sooner fan! Anyway, although I would love nothing more than to see our Husker's win every game, I could handle some losses as long as the team actually PLAYS. The lack of heart, emotion, intensity, whatever you'd like to call it...made it hard to watch every game. It was as if they forgot how to even try, and that was heart breaking. Through it all, I still shouted "Go Big Red"...but it will be nice to say it and actually believe it may happen this year!
Always enjoy reading your posts Jason!
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Hey Jason, just wanted to say Happy Holidays and I hope 2008 brings you everything you ask for and for all of us Husker fans GO BIG RED !!!!!!!!
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I'm really at peace with what has happen with Nebraska Football. What scares me is that Shawn Watson may not be around for very long as he is going to end up as a head coach, I think he is that good, I'm not worried about the program at this time, it's in good hands, Nebraska can take a deep breath, We have a good coach with the same values as Tom Osborne, We will be very competitive next year.
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55,
Just read your "it's a start" article again. That is a classic, straight up, championship winning husker attitude. I imagine you are one hell of a motivator.
I hope the kids who play defense next year get that feel from the coaches. It will carry over to offense don't you think. I know "Bo Knows".
Hope the New Year brings everything you want to your coaching career, I'm pulling for ya.
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55,
You were there through some amazing run, unlike any other run since 70-71. I enjoy listening to you talk (through your blog) about what the mind set, the feel was, from your perspective.
I remember '94, beating Miami, my older brother was killed in a car accident a month before. Big Husker fan. He made me a Husker fan at an early age. Watched Nebraska beat Georgia in '69 Sun Bowl with him. Before the great seasons of '70 and '71. I have a framed poster of "When once in a lifetime happens twice." It lists 70-71 and 94-95. Husker helmets N held high.
Anyway -Keep up the the great work and Thanks from an old Husker Fan.
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My first game that I went to was Oklahoma State Vs. Nebraska, Sat in the South End Zone, right between the goal posts. Yea, it's been great to be a cornhusker, but these last four years the magic was gone, Glad it's over with, Tom's got that feeling back. Bo's going to have issues, but if we stay with him, like Tom we will prevail.
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I saw a big d lineman grab a humbled o tackle by the scruff of his neck, one hand on his numbers, on his pants, and lifted him like a bag of candy four feet in the air and throw him off a hurt d lineman, and then another, because the guy had taken an elbow piledriver, it turned out in the stomach, that man doing the throwing was number 55 ... i played football as a defensive back in highschool at columbus long time ago and I know the joy of a collision... it doesn't hurt, it is like taking the planet jupiter in your arms and popping it hard like a bear hug and it feels so good you can't enough of it ... later the pain comes, but the joy is indescribably, and my joy at watching real football helps me to remember that justice without mercy is corruption ... for four years n football has been corrupted, now those years are over ... thank you for helping your friend that day, 55, it makes me want to be a better, more courageous man. I was a drummer, and now am a a janitor, and I also am a published poet, and I truly admire you, and those who have buffalo thundering in their blood as you do, for the true warrior is born of a love for justice and right manhood, for is this not the true light of true kindness and mercy? it teaches those who would fail, to suceed by transcending their own cowardice ... again, thank you. Moqui Takoda, apache
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That is so funny are you kidding. He couldn't lead a horse to water!!!!!!!!!!
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