Nebraska’s Defense Now Wearing Blackshirts with Pride

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - At long last, Nebraska's defense turned in a Blackshirt-worthy performance.

Coach Bo Pelini said he actually thought the Cornhuskers were good enough against Northwestern the week before to merit the awarding of the iconic black practice jerseys.

The players wouldn't accept them because they thought they could play still better - and they did Saturday in a 23-9 win over Michigan, holding the Wolverines to no touchdowns and 188 total yards.

"Blackshirts" has long been known throughout college football as the alternate name for Nebraska's defense. The title stands for the black practice jerseys worn by the starters.

The last two games the Huskers have given up and average of 137.5 yards rushing and 244 total, and have allowed the opponent to convert just 10 of 35 third downs.

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