The Nebraska Cornhuskers, once a powerhouse in college football, have been mired in mediocrity for the last decade. This article delves into the nine biggest reasons behind their decline, offering a unique perspective from an expert editorial writer, analyst, and commentator.
The Rise and Fall of a Dynasty
Nebraska football's glory days seem like a distant memory. From 1962 to 2003, they were a force to be reckoned with, never experiencing a losing season. Even after the dynasty's fall, they maintained a level of competitiveness, winning nine-plus games in nine seasons and claiming four division titles from 2004 to 2016. However, the tide turned in 2016, marking the beginning of a downward spiral.
The Perfect Storm
The decline of Nebraska football is a complex tale, and it began with the arrival of Urban Meyer at Ohio State in 2011. Meyer's dominance in recruiting elevated the Big Ten's overall competitiveness. Simultaneously, the conference's TV deals brought in significant revenue, allowing schools to hire top-tier coaches. This combination raised the bar for all teams, including Nebraska, who struggled to keep up with the new standard.
Dysfunction and Leadership
Leadership issues have plagued the program, with Athletic Director Shawn Eichorst and Chancellor Harvey Pearlman overseeing a period of decline. Their replacements, Bill Moos and Hank Bounds, faced interference from the Regents, hindering their ability to make effective decisions. The administration's dysfunction was evident in Scott Frost's contract extension, which was granted despite his mediocre performance, and the failed pursuit of Dana Altman for the basketball program.
Strength and Conditioning Woes
Under Lincoln Riley, the strength and conditioning program took a hit. Coaches meddled in this crucial area, leading to a decline in the team's physical prowess. The neglect of fundamental exercises, such as back squats, resulted in a physically overmatched defense and offensive line struggles. This issue highlights the importance of a well-structured strength program in modern football.
Special Teams Neglect
Nebraska's special teams have been an afterthought for much of the last decade. The lack of investment in this area has cost them dearly, with close games slipping away due to poor special teams play. The hiring and firing of coaches like Bruce Read and Ed Foley reflect a pattern of neglect, which has contributed to the team's overall mediocrity.
Developmental Struggles
Nebraska has struggled to develop its athletes into top-tier football players. Despite the efforts of Trev Alberts and the hiring of Matt Rhule, the program has failed to establish itself as a premier developmental hub. The advent of NIL and the Transfer Portal has further complicated matters, as players now have more options and are quicker to leave if they don't see immediate playing time or better opportunities elsewhere.
Recruiting and Retention Crisis
Nebraska's recruiting and retention efforts have been disastrous in recent years. The program has failed to keep its best players, and those who leave often find greater success elsewhere. This trend is a stark contrast to their rivals, Iowa and Wisconsin, who consistently turn three-star recruits into standout players. Nebraska's focus on star-chasing has led them to overlook local talent, a strategy that once served them well under Coach Osborne.
Psychological Fragility
The Huskers have battled psychological fragility for years, with one bad play often leading to a downward spiral. This issue has plagued multiple coaching staffs, including those of Scott Frost and Matt Rhule. The team's inability to bounce back from adversity has resulted in close losses and a sense of inevitability in tough games. Until this mental block is addressed, Nebraska will continue to struggle.
Neglecting the Run Game
Nebraska's geographical, demographic, and cultural advantages lie in their ability to run the football effectively. However, the program has often prioritized pocket passers and receivers over a strong running game. This strategic misstep has led to disappointing results, as seen in the 2017 season. Building a dominant running game should be a priority for the Huskers to capitalize on their natural strengths.
Assistant Coaching Conundrum
Nebraska's assistant coaching hires have been puzzling, to say the least. Despite having the resources to build elite staffs, they have often fallen short. The retention of Donovan Raiola, the hiring of young coaches like Garret McGuire, and the underutilization of the assistant salary pool reflect a lack of coherent strategy. The program's inability to assemble a cohesive coaching team has contributed to their struggles on the field.
In conclusion, Nebraska's decline is a multifaceted issue, with leadership, coaching, and strategic decisions all playing a part. The Huskers must address these problems head-on, from the administration to the coaching staff, if they hope to reclaim their former glory. This analysis provides a comprehensive look at the challenges facing Nebraska football and offers insights into the broader trends and issues in college football today.
