Week 5: Virginia Tech at Nebraska

Nebraska’s feeling good about itself again, enjoying the vibe of the switch from Bill Callahan to Bo Pelini. But this game will reveal if this is a faux feel-good story.

The Cornhuskers have built their 3-0 record against Western Michigan, San Jose State and New Mexico State without leaving the comfy confines of Memorial Stadium.

And Virginia Tech, after an opening loss to East Carolina, is feeling better about itself. The Hokies have won three straight, with victories over Georgia Tech and North Carolina much more than the Huskers can claim thus far.

And now the Hokies are experimenting with some elements of the spread offense, which seems natural with Tyrod Taylor now established as the quarterback. A backfield boasting Taylor and running backs Darren Evans and Kenny Lewis together – debuted for a few snaps the past two games – could cause sleepless nights for defensive coordinators.

It could also open things up in the passing game, an area where Tech must improve.

“That’s what we’re trying to work on – becoming a balanced offensive football team,” said Hokies coach Frank Beamer.

If the Hokies don’t connect through the air in Lincoln, the Huskers swing the edge their way. Nebraska’s allowing just 77.7 rushing yards a game.

Notes:

Nebraska is 3-0 for the first time since 2005. A win would give the Huskers a perfect non-conference record for the 12th time in 20 seasons.

The trip to Nebraska is Virginia Tech’s farthest West since they visited Oklahoma in 1991.

The only other meeting between the two schools came in the 1996 Orange Bowl, a 41-24 win by the Huskers. The teams will meet in Blacksburg in 2009.

Player to Watch (Cornhuskers) – Cody Glenn, LB

The senior will be called on to keep a watchful eye on Tech quarterback Tyrod Taylor, who is so dangerous taking off on called runs or when pass plays break down. Glenn and the rest of the linebackers will be critical in keeping Taylor contained and not free to romp through the second line of defense.

Player to Watch (Hokies) – Tyrod Taylor, QB

We mentioned Taylor’s threat as a runner above. But if the Hokies are to pull off this road win, they’ll need Taylor to produce through the air as well. While not his strength, he’s not a terrible passer, either. He could benefit from a dose of patience, rather than fleeing the pocket prematurely.

Virginia Tech by 9