Big Red Buzz at Valentino's in Nebraska City

NEBRASKA CITY – Huskers Radio Network analyst Damon Benning prescribes a blazing start on offense for Nebraska to upset Michigan in its Big 10 opener and he is looking for special teams to provide the spark.

Benning: “Nebraska is going to get one. They are going to block a punt. They’ve been close. Michigan has been leaking oil a little bit on their punt protection, so I really think Nebraska can get one."

If they do get off to quick start, especially due to special teams, Nebraska is going to try and stay on the gas.

Benning

 

“I’d like them to get one early because I think this is a team that is, I think, chomping at the bit to have some success. … I don’t talk much about fast starts or slow starts or anything like that because they’ve been such a poor finishing team it hasn’t really mattered, but I think with this team in particular – a team that thinks they are pretty good and is waiting for validation that they are pretty good – if they start fast, I don’t think you’ll see a Colorado last year where the second half gets away from them. It’s a much more mature team.”

Benning: "This is a team that is really focused on setting the tone. They just want the opportunity."

Benning: “I know what Michigan is thinking. Michigan is thinking we’re Michigan. Emotionally we’re just tougher than you guys. Our brand is better than your brand. We’re used to playing and winning in games like this. Nebraska on the main hand has to get over the fact where they are hoping and waiting for their breakthrough moment and they are kind of unsure.”

"I know what Michigan is thinking. Michigan is thinking we're Michigan. Emotionally we're just tougher than you guys. Our brand is better than your brand."

Benning

 

Benning: “That’s why I’m saying if Nebraska comes out and they start quick, I think they are going for the jugular.”

Benning: “If they do get off to quick start, especially due to special teams, Nebraska is going to try and stay on the gas. They are going to try and ride the momentum and take advantage of that crowd.”

He said while Nebraska will want to limit possessions and shorten the game, they can also use tempo on offense to discourage Michigan’s complex blitz packages.

Benning: “Ideally I would like Nebraska to win the toss, defer and get a three and out. Because, if they got a three and out and they slowed Michigan down and they played the crazy music on third down and get the crowd into it and then Nebraska gets the ball. I mean that’s ideal right?