I still have yet to watch the complete 1st half due to a prior commitment, but with the second half views and the box score I have a few thoughts.
1. Third Downs. Granted, this was the first game, wasn’t close and opportunities to evaluate players in a game situation were probably on the list, a 40% first down percentage on third down against a defense that gave up almost 500 yards is a little concerning to me. However, against a better defense in a tighter game, this could be a game changing stat if it doesn’t improve.
2. Big Plays. I think I counted 9 big plays – plays that went for 12 yards or more – by Florida Atlantic. While starting QB Rusty Smith is touted to be an NFL quarterback next year, the Nebraska secondary appeared to hold him in check in the first half (again, I still need to watch the first half in its entirety). It was the back-up, Jeff Van Camp, that seemed to get the d-line out of sorts.
3. The Final Score. Last year, FAU lost to Texas in their opener by a score of 52-3. Given what Texas managed to accomplish last season, I think that bodes well for the Huskers.
4. Zac Lee/Cody Green QB battle. Is there a QB battle on tap later in the season? Judging the by the little bit I saw of the first half, and the explosiveness by Green in the 4th, I won’t be surprised to see Cody Green used more often as the season progresses. I can see a dual use to give opposing defenses a mixed up look when we need it, or even breaking out into some wildcat formations. Regardless, the following 3 seasons could be exciting.
What did you see?
