Daily Nebraskan

Issue date: 3/27/08 Section: Sports

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Bo Pelini's first practice as a head coach is in the books. If you ask him, he'll tell you there wasn't that much difference to it.

"Just a different job title," Pelini said.

The Nebraska first-year head coach's casual demeanor wasn't enough to hide the story. Anticipation of his coaching style and direction of practice gave way to tangible results, and players were excited after an intense workout in front of NU athletic director Tom Osborne and several former Cornhuskers.

"He's very hands-on," said linebacker Phillip Dillard. "He's talking to every player. … If you're messing up, he's talking to you, no matter who you are. He's going to correct you because he wants everything done perfect."

Known for his intense demeanor and high expectations, Pelini's approach was expected by many to place him miles apart from former NU Coach Bill Callahan.

That projection came to fruition. Pelini was reportedly all over the field at the Hawks Championship Center, paying attention to detail and inspiring aggressive, physical play during Nebraska's two-and-a-half-hour practice in helmets and shorts.

As expected, Pelini devoted most of his time to the defense, but occasionally he floated over and involved himself with the offense.

With players learning new schemes, Pelini said he believed that the first few practices would require some acclimation and breaking in. After one practice, the process was not without bumps and bruises.

"It's about what I expected, about what we expected," Pelini said. "You're not going to be ready on the first day. There were a lot of mistakes, but the effort was great."

The learning curve isn't as taxing on some as others. Offensive coordinator Shawn Watson said the offense was a step ahead of the defense just based on its familiarity with the plays. Changes to the offensive strategy will be minor, and Nebraska's retention of Watson has played a large role in that.

Additionally, team chemistry - usually a concern for teams in transition - has been managed well by the staff, and the cohesiveness of players and units is making the process of assimilating a new system easier.

That attitude stems from the exceptional relations of the coaching staff.

"It's become pretty apparent that it's a comfortable room and guys respect each other," said offensive line Coach Barney Cotton. "That translates itself to the players that should get that feeling, too."

The attitude of the afternoon was uplifted and excited, with no players interested in dwelling on the past. The future was bright and underway on Wednesday, and players were focused on proving their talent as individuals and collectively.

Nebraska spent much of the day running through offensive sets and base defenses and becoming familiar with the new system. Players were putting forth effort and intensity in bids for starting jobs.

"The evaluation goes on every rep," Pelini said. "Every guy is being evaluated every time he walks on the field. I thought it was a good start.They're swimming in it mentally a bit, but physically guys were flying around having fun."

jonathancrowl@dailynebraskan.com

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