The Nebraska Cornhuskers got back in the win column on Saturday with a convincing 24-17 home win over Minnesota to stay keep place in the Big Ten West with Wisconsin. By snapping the two-game losing streak, the Huskers proved a lot to themselves and are in excellent position to put up a 10-win season. Here are three things we learned from the win:
3) Tommy Armstrong is a gamer
Armstrong was questionable for this game with a concussion he suffered in the Huskers' loss to Ohio State, and he not only played inthis game, but he played exceptionally well. He finished 19/27 passing for 217 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions, but more surprisingly, was Nebraska's leading rusher with 61 yards and a touchdown on nine carries. After being knocked unconscious last week, Armstrong played with no fear and led the Huskers to a victory. That's the definition of a true leader.
2) Don't abandon the running game
Nebraska's running game has been inconsistent all year, but their performance in this game left a LOT to be desired. As well as Armstrong played, he should not be the leading rusher. Terrell Newby had 85 yards on just 16 carries - nine of those coming in the 4th quarter - showing how the coaching staff basically abandoned the running game until the final frame. Yes, Minnesota has a good rush defense, but you need to at least keep them honest - and get more production. Outside of Armstrong, the rest of the team combined for 24 yards through three quarters of play. In the future, that won't get it done.
1) No one is better than this team in the second half
Time and time again, Nebraska proves they have what it takes to turn it on and play their best in the second half. Down 17-10 at the break, the Huskers didn't panic, tightened up on defense and stepped their game up to win. In their last five wins, Nebraska has been either tied or trailing their opponent at some point in the second half. That shows a team who knows how to play their best when their best is needed.
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