Today’s game resulted in a painful ending for Husker fans and the team, who sadly, know a thing or two about painful endings.

When Virginia Tech’s Danny Coale converted on an 81-yard pass play with just seconds remaining on the clock, it knocked the wind out of Husker Nation. Big time. After all, we were on the verge of our first big win in way too long–the last time we beat a top 20 opponent on the road was 1997. That was three head coaches ago.

Our coach now couldn’t believe his eyes. After the big play he removed his headset and chucked it in frustration. After the game, when the press corps asked Bo Pelini about that big play that cost us so dearly, he curtly said, “I don’t know. Did you watch it? You saw what happened. Let’s go to the next question,” Pelini said.

I love the fire in Pelini’s belly as much as the next guy, but the coach needs a primer in how to handle himself and the press. Smart ass comments are not going to get it done, anymore than blown coverage on a crucial drive on the road is going to get it done.

Husker wide receiver Niles Paul had the right answer. “It was like a stab in the chest,” he said.

It was a stab in the chest. This game was stolen from us thanks to two highly improbable last minute plays. And being ripped off hurts, there’s no way around it. Especially, when it could have been prevented, and there’s little doubt this crime could have been prevented.