Keys to the Game (Colorado Edition)

I'm in Denver right now visiting family and will be attending the game tomorrow in Boulder.  Here are my keys to the game:

Nebraska needs to...

*Play calm

If things start going tough, don't get down and just grind through it.  It's actually something Nebraska is pretty good at (see Missouri).  Don't try to play outside of yourselves like they tried last year.

*Stop Rodney Stewart

Stewart is arguably Colorado's greatest weapon.  He can burn any defense in the nation, even Nebraska's.

*Run, then pass

Just like last week, running the ball early will set up play-action attack that is a more reliable offense than going downfield.

Nebraska needs to control...

*The Colorado Offensive Line

Rodney Stewart can't run without an O-Line and Nebraska's D-Line shouldn't have a problem controlling upfront.  However, last week, Nebraska gave up some big yards and stopped them from scoring points.  It'd be nice to see the Huskers stiffen up and give up less yards

*The crowd

It's an away, rivalry game.  There will be plenty of Huskers, but many more Buffalo fans.  If the Huskers can get an early lead and force some turnovers, the crowd will deflate

*Their turnovers

Last year, they shot themselves in the foot vs. Colorado by botching a fake field goal for a touchdown.  Luckily, they rebounded and pulled out a win.  If they aren't careful and turn it over (see Iowa State), they can lose to a subpar team.

Predictions

*Zac Lee will throw 2 touchdowns or more

Look for Lee to throw some TDs, whether it be down field or play action.  The Buffs will stack the box in the red zone and force Lee to beat them, not Helu, Jr.

*Rex Burkhead's load will be heavier

He looked decent coming back, but the Huskers need to get him some touches to increase his abilities for the Big XII Championship game and a bowl game.  Helu, Jr. will get plenty of touches and probably a score or two, but Burkhead's abilities need to be tailored.

*Nebraska 30, Colorado 10

The game will be close in the first quarter, but pretty much away by halftime.  The Buffs won't be able to overcome a great Nebraska defense and make up the gap in the 2nd half.  Colorado's TD will come on a big play, however.