We made it!

It is finally time for the first Husker football game!

Starting the season off with a strong conference win is just what the Huskers need. Even if it isn’t in Ireland.

Nebraska is going to come out strong in this first game and here are your reasons why:

#1 ILLINOIS HAS A NEW COACH

We all know that the first season, or three, under a new coach are kind of shaky. (Unless you are Ohio State) While Bret Beilema has proven that he is able to coach successful teams. His first game in his first season at a new school is sure to be underwhelming. Nebraska has the advantage of players knowing the system and knowing their coaches.

Which leads me to reason number two:

#2 THE ILLINOIS DEFENSIVE SCHEME IS CHANGING

Nebraska is well aware of the struggle that can happen when you move from a 4-3 base to a 3-4.

While this scheme will probably benefit them in the future, the defensive unit that was 14th in the BIG in all areas except pass defense will struggle with it this year. The first game is sure to be an adjustment period for Illinois and Nebraska will be ready to capitalize on it.

#3 2018 ADRIAN MARTINEZ IS READY TO PLAY

While some people may not be happy about it, we have a definite #1 quarterback this year. Adrian has looked healthier than he has been in the past couple seasons and now he has years of experience as well.

In 2018 Adrian completed 224 passes with a compeletion percentage of 64.6%. He had 2,617 yards and 17 touchdowns. That was as an inexperienced true freshman. Now that he seems in better shape, healthier, and has more targets than he’s had in awhile those numbers are going to go up.

The Illinois game is the perfect time to see the Adrian Martinez that we’ve been waiting for.

#4 THE DEFENSE

The Huskers are going to have a solid line, a strong linebackers core, and an excellent backfield. There is a lot of experience returning for the defense and I like the match up.

While last year’s game against Illinois did not show it, Nebraska’s match up against the Illinois passing, scoring , and total offense looks good. I know we will be seeing a different offense this year, but this defense will be equipped to handle it.

#5 NEBRASKA HAS NEVER LOST A GAME IN AUGUST

Nebraska is currently 14-0 for August football games and 2-0 for conference games in August. August is a good month for Nebraska football and that’s not changing this year.

BONUS REASON: I DON’T LIKE TO LOSE BETS TO MY HUSBAND

As always, my husband and I bet on this game and I don’t like to lose to him. He isn’t a real Illini fan anyway.