NU STAR

Freshman I-back Rex Burkhead carried the Huskers to their final touchdown and finished with a career-best 100 yards rushing on 18 carries. Despite his five-week absence with a broken foot, from which Burkhead returned on Nov. 18, he's a leader on this offense simply because of his attitude. No Husker runs better in traffic or moves more instinctively with the football. To watch Burkhead keep his feet moving and push the pile with that 200-pound frame is impressive.

HIGHLIGHT

Ben Cotton's first career touchdown reception put the Huskers on top 14-0 early in the second quarter. The redshirt freshman, known as the Huskers' best blocking tight end, found a seam down the west hash and split two defenders. He caught the football for a 24-yard TD from Zac Lee, banging into traffic as he crossed the goal line. The ball came loose in the end zone, though an official review upheld the TD call.

BUSTED PLAY

If ever there was clear proof that Lee should not run the option, it came on the third offensive play of the second half. Nebraska's junior QB went to his left while the rest of the offense went right. It left Lee vulnerable, and though he managed to avoid a big loss, the quarterback took a big hit and landed awkwardly on his left leg. He hobbled off the field, giving way to Cody Green for two plays before Lee returned after the Buffs' 12-play touchdown drive cut the NU lead to 21-14.

OUR TAKE

Aside from Burkhead's big second half, nothing that happened Friday on offense for Nebraska should come as a surprise. Twelve games into the season, this is Nebraska — a decent but underwhelming collection of offensive talent that, more often than not, operates best when it simply gets out of its own way. Nebraska minimized mistakes against CU and ran tough when necessary. Still, the Huskers need more than 73 yards passing from Lee and a plan next week that does more than let the defense and special teams handle nearly the whole load.

— Mitch Sherman

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