Bo Pelini:

Opening statement:

“We came out of spring ball ahead of where we were a year ago. There’s a great sense of anticipation …. a chance to keep program moving forward.”

Differrence from last year:

“The sense of accountability  to each other and the program. The football team now understands what it takes to put a good hard day’s work in. The culture of program is getting firmer. feel better about where we are at this point.

“Last year, a sense of dread when our players came to workouts. Now I sense they are ready to get out there and work and are looking to get better.”

QB situation:

“Zac Lee came out of spring .. no one has won a job yet .. but Zac came out ahead. Followed up spring with a great summer. Very athletic young man and a natural leader. He can make all the throws. Very excited about what he brings to the table.”

Is Nebraska back:

“I don’t feel like it is. Our expectations very, very high. My job to keep them grounded. Starting to feel momentum we had last year.”

On being a defensive coach in an offensive league:

“We made some strides on defense but not in same galaxy where I want to be defensively. We’re going to play good defense at Nebraska, I can guarantee that.”

On running attack:

“I love our backs. If you want to win championships, at some point you have to be physical enough to run the ball. Not only it helps your offense but it helps your defense.”

Black shirt legacy:

“Something our kids take a lot of pride in and is very special and one that will be here forever.”

How close to be being back:

“We’ll find out. Our talent level is better than a year ago. Young in some spots. Not as deep as we’d like to be. Won’t be satisfied until we win them all. How close are we? I’m not comfortable making a statement on that. We have a chance to be a better football team. How that translates to wins and losses, we’ll find out in December.”