NEBRASKA CITY – Husker Radio Network color voice Damon Benning gave a capacity crowd Thursday at the Big Red Buzz at Valentino’s Restaurant in Nebraska City his keys to watch for in Nebraska’s season opener and reasons for optimism that an eight-win campaign will end the streak of seven straight losing seasons.

He started with confidence in the coaching staff, including new members quarterbacks coach Glenn Thomas and secondary coach John Butler. He said the clean-slate that came with the new coaches fits in with the “calculated message” of the off season, which Benning identified as “competition.”

He asked about how talented defensive back DeShon Singleton would feel about the coaching staff after coming back from injury.

Benning: “When it’s all said and done, if Singleton stays healthy, he has a great story to tell about just people believing in him.”

Benning said despite changes, the players and coaches appear to have the benefit of a common language.

Benning: “Common language builds in accountability.”

He commended freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola for his answer to a question about his accomplishments with a narrative about his teammates.
Benning said Raiola recognizes the game experience of Wake Forest transfer Jahmal Banks and Texas transfer Isaiah Neyor, recognizes the resilience of tight end Thomas Fidone and the transitory role of Janiran Bonner from fullback, tight end and back to the receivers’ room.

Benning credits the offensive line for the “right temperament” and described the defensive line as the unit with the most “Sunday-level” guys.

Benning identified linebacker John Bullock, a 230-pound senior, as his break-out player of the year.

He said running backs are in an unusual situation where the depth chart is going to be decided in live competition. He expects multiple running backs to play Saturday with none exceeding 12 carries.

Benning: “When you’re constantly evaluated in real time during a game, just embrace the challenge. That’s exactly what is going to happen. The running back room will sort itself out.”

He said the questions he wants to see answered Saturday are:

  • Does Nebraska have a consistent running game between when they want to run and when they need to run?
  • Does Nebraska’s defense have trouble getting lined up against a quick tempo offense?
  • Does Nebraska look like a team having fun?

Predictions

  • Game: Nebraska 38, UTEP 10
  • Season: 8-4. “Nine wins is tops.”