Huskers Prevail; Bo Keeps His Job

This was the scene at Kinnick Stadium before overtime. (©Huskers on Instagram)

The Friday after Thanksgiving Day is not only "Black Friday." In Nebraska, it is a tradition that means watching the Huskers play football.

First it was Nebraska and Oklahoma, which instantly brings up mentions of the "Game of the Century" back in 1971 and classic games in the late 70s into the 80s. Then, it was Nebraska and Colorado who battled in the 90s in a forced rivalry. Today, it is Nebraska's neighbor to the east, the Iowa Hawkeyes, who are in the crosshairs of Cornhusker fans as the teams battle for the Heroes Trophy in the "Heroes Game" (sponsored by Hy-Vee).

I have written about Nebraska football before. In fact, I have even written about the demise of Shawn Watson before he was fired. This time, the game between Nebraska and Iowa drew additional attention as some Husker fans called for the firing of head coach Bo Pelini. Calls of "Fire Bo" and "Bo Must Go" were routine on Twitter in the days leading up to Saturday's game.

Through the first quarter and deep into the first half, it looked like Pelini and his movers would have a busy Saturday. But a late second quarter touchdown pulled Nebraska to within 10-7. When the Huskers fell behind 24-7, even radio announcers Adrian Fiala and Matt Davison were having trouble putting a good spin on the situation. But a long run by Ameer Abdullah, two punt returns for touchdowns by De’Mornay Pierson-El and a touchdown catch in overtime – yes, it went to overtime – by Kenny Bell helped the Huskers pull out a 37-34 win.

Nebraska secures its seventh straight nine-win season under Pelini and now appears headed to a bowl game in either Nashville or Santa Clarita, California. But it will hardly stop the talk: should Bo Pelini be the Husker coach? (See more photos on the Huskers' Instagram account.)