Andy Christensen Presents an Opportunity for Pelini
8 comments so far
September 4, 2008 by
After a not guilty verdict made Andy Christensen available to return to Nebraska it put Pelini in a position to send a message about discipline or further strengthen the depth on the NU offensive line. Some consider Pelini to be in a no-win situation since he’ll be criticized either way, but in reality he seemingly can’t lose.
Christensen had been a starter ahead of Mike Huff. He’s definitely a better run-blocker and probably is at least equally good to Huff in pass protection. With a sixth year of eligibility possible, he could definitely be helpful next year when Huff, Matt Slauson, and Lydon Murtha will all have graduated.
But he’s not essential. The Huskers return three of four offensive tackles from this year’s team and redshirting freshman Brandon Thompson could be ready to move into the two deep by next season. D. J. Jones could also move to tackle, if needed. If he didn’t, then Jones, Keith Williams, and Ricky Henry would all be likely two-deep players at guard and Cruz Barrett could well make four. Derek Meyer, a transfer from Kansas State who had started there will also be available next year and redshirting walk-on Brian Thorson (who turned down a scholarship to Buffalo) could compete for time as well. It’s conceivable that Baker Steinkuhler could be thrown in the mix on the offensive well. So clearly, the Huskers have plenty of options on the offensive line. Christensen also missed a lot of practice time, which would mean at least for 2008 he’d be fighting an uphill battle trying to get back on the field.
That puts Pelini in the position of adding a quality lineman to an already strong group or making a point about off-the-field behavior to the rest of the team. Sure there’s criticism either way, but there’s also a benefit either way. Pelini can handle criticism, so it would seem that he and the Nebraska program stand only to gain. Either way, expect Pelini to make a good call.
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Ty Hughes Sep 04 08
If he brings him back this year, he creates an unnecessary distraction and looks inconsistent (Kevin Dixon). If he leaves him off, he permanently cements his view on off-the-field behavior in the NU culture. If he redshirts him (which I hadn't thought of), he accomplishes both the discipline and eliminates the distraction AC's return would be this year.
HuskerFan4Life Sep 04 08
Andy has already used his redshirt Steve, how would he be eligible for a 6th year???
steve Sep 04 08
Christensen can claim 2 seasons lost to injury and those tend to be the kinds of cases that win an extra year when appeals are made to the NCAA. He hasn't won the appeal yet and it's a moot issue if Pelini won't invite him back, but it's a real possibility.
HuskerFan4Life Sep 04 08
I agree we may be arguing a moot point, and personally I feel that AC should remain on the team, but let him ride the bench for at least 6 games. That will definitely get Pelini's point across and still allow the kid to possibly have a career in football post graduation. But I do not see the National Communists against Athletics(throwback to the Boz days) allowing him another year when he is not injured this year and is eligible to play.
Austin Sep 04 08
If Pelini reinstates Andy, why can't he play this year?
Simpson Sep 04 08
We are forgetting what exactly the "off field behavior was. Nothing. Andy was found not guilty of the sexual assault charge. Innocent until proven guilty. Therefore, he remains innocent. How can Bo punish him and throw him off the team for what some drunk girl claims happened? I say let him play and lets find the girl and put her on trial for purjury and defamation of character.
Dwayne Sep 04 08
Simpson,
I wouldn't necessarily say nothing. Christiansen was convicted of two relatated misdemeanor charges. And also remember that because Christiansen wasn't convicted of the charge, doesn't mean he didn't do it. Everyone is pretty well aware of the past OJ trial and if BRN cast a poll, I'm sure most people would suggest that OJ did what he was acquitted of. The bottom line is Pelini has to weigh his decision on what he feels is right for the team, now and in the future. I will let him decide what he thinks is best. I don't know if there is a right or wrong decision, but he has to make it and I'll live with it.
Austin Sep 08 08
Looks like a good chance that Andy will play this year. With potentially him and Murtha back, the O-line might become the line we have been hearing about all offseason.