I Heart Helu
7 comments so far
November 10, 2009 by
This is a post that could have been written in the pre-season, or 3 weeks in to the season. In fact, I have re-outlined it many times over the course of this campaign so far. But his efforts versus Oklahoma Saturday night (and the prospect of what he might do down the stretch) make it the exact right time to declare my feelings in full. The simple fact is that I heart Roy Helu. He represents the heart and soul of not just the Nebraska offense in 2009, but also what most fans want the NU players and team to be like in the Pelini coaching era.
Drag the Plow, Roy
Folks, lets just be clear about one thing. Nebraska's offense will go as far as Roy Helu Jr. drags it. Never mind that his shoulders are messed up. Never mind the fact that the two fellas best able to aid him are either off the team (Castille) or hurt (Burkhead). Hule is head and shoulders Nebraska's best offensive player.
Statistically, his 806 yards and 6 touchdowns don't exactly paint the whole picture of what is at stake. Helu is the trigger man, the fire starter, the straw that stirs the drink. However you want to say it, the offense begins with him. The games where he produced (or got more than 7 carries!) NU's offense was better. Or, at least "felt" better, because they had a go to player. If and when NU commits to lining him up behind a fullback and running down hill, they are more effective.
Against most teams (not OU...) the semblance of a running game will help allow for play action passing. He's the one that can help get Niles Paul, Mike McNeil and Brandon Kinnie more involved. And even in that play action passing game, Helu will be one of the targets. No doubt about it, Nebraska's offense is wearing #10.
Great Person, Great Teammate
Roy Helu is also one heck of a good teammate. He's the heartbeat of that team on offense and in the locker room. He was his humble, Christian self in the pre-season - giving God the glory and talking about how athletic his teammates are.
After one particularly good performance this year, he appeared at a press conference wearing a rather garish leis. Just when you think he might be drawing attention to himself or being goofy, he explained that it represented "unconditional love" in his parents' home country. Wow.
After Saturday night's gutsy performance, he made a rather risky (but awesome!) move to hop up, scale the fence a bit, and celebrate with NU's fans in the stands. Other players soon followed suit, but it was all Roy. All genuine.
To top it all off, he's humble - even self-disparaging - in success. When all the Husker-loving world was clamoring to know whether the "old" Roy Helu was back after his 143 yard performance against the stout Sooner defense, he said he didn't want to be the old Roy Helu “because the old Roy Helu didn't play for his teammates.''
Asked to explain, he didn't speak of health or effort, but rather his motivation and how he must focus on the team. Now, I rather doubt that he's a selfish player. But, if he wants to call himself out, that's his business. I rather think that Roy is sending a message or setting an example for his teammates. He's leading!
Even His Faults are Redeemable
So, I officially heart Roy Helu, and I'm not afraid to say it. The ability, the guts, the team-first attitude. What is not to like about this kid? (Well, other than his rather unfortunate tendency to get nicked up). And, there is a silver lining in his injury.
His mid-season lapse in production due to injury may prevent him from putting up the "monster" numbers that would allow him to exit early for the NFL (and yes, he has that kind of ability). So, it likely gives us one more year with Roy Helu in Scarlet and Cream. And that's a very, very good thing.
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Chief's Son Nov 10 09
You and I my friend will always have this conversation about who we "heart". As you know, I heart Rex. Much respect to Roy though. What a combination the two make. Let's just hope Rex makes it back for a showdown with the Longhorns. How sweet would that be for the Freshman from Plano?
darren Nov 10 09
Chief's Son - I respect your Rex-love. But, I also know it is based on much less actual experience. It's a crush. Hard not to crush on his HS resume, skill set, straight-line running style, and his production so far.
My love of Helu is grounded as much in his guts, attitude and leadership as his on-field production. And, lets face it #10 IS the NU offense right now.
Now...if only we had them both down the stretch!
WyHuskerFan Nov 10 09
If he's healthy for the stretch run that would be great. If his teammates tighten up their chin straps like he has that would be even better.
I'm still in a quandary about the QB situation. My gut tells me to go with Lee and let them battle it out next year, however, Green is the future and the remaining defenses are not stellar. I know the coaches will start whoever they feel gives us the best chance to win and they've shown their not hesitant to make a switch. Maybe a two QB system can work if both give the defenses fits in different ways.
As for Rex returning soon, it would be huge if he could play in the CU game and get back in the flow. If this team doesn't have another let down after a huge emotional win we should plan on a trip to Dallas.
GBR!
Qualuedtke Nov 10 09
If Helu wasn't able to play last Saturday, I doubt we come out with the win. The effect he had on field position was huge, and he was the only threat we had on offense. Keeping our offense on the field for a few more snaps to rest the blackshirts was invaluable.
James Moore Nov 10 09
I heart my team. Penalties and turnovers included. . .
Bill in Iowa Nov 10 09
I was thinking the same thing about Helu. Not only do we really need him for the next 4 games, but next year too!
As far as QB, I think Lee should get the first nod and then send in Green in the 2nd quarter. After that, decide who is more effective. I was really surprised they started Green against OU. I mean it's his 2nd start and it's OU! According to Wats he was, "Nervous in the service." I should think so!
Both of our QB's seemed to be plagued by anxiety. They need to play relaxed and play w/ confidence. When either one does that, good things are going to happen.
Bill Nov 11 09
I agree with all the love Helu gets for his on the field performance.
The Christian thing is a little off-putting to some of us. No offense to any of you out there, really, but I just want to hear an athlete talk about sports.
That said, you can't say a bad thing about the kid. Talented, Tough and Humble.