QB Zac Taylor is ready to go, but is his offensive line?

                    

	Zac Taylor Brian Bahr/Getty Images Nebraska 2005 Record 8-4 (4-4 Big 12) Final AP Rank 24 Returning Starters 13 (6 offense, 7 defense) Last National Title 1997 The Contenders Auburn Michigan Cal Nebraska Clemson Notre Dame Florida State Ohio State Georgia Tech South Carolina Iowa USC Louisville Utah Miami West Virginia

By Stewart Mandel, SI.com

Why Nebraska can win it all: In Year 3 of his regime, Bill Callahan finally has an experienced quarterback, senior Zac Taylor, to run his West Coast offense. But the real strength of the Huskers will be their defense. Pass-rushers Adam Carriker and Jay Moore return to an attacking unit that posted 50 sacks last year. The veteran secondary should be one of the nation's best.

What must fall into place: The offensive line (38 sacks allowed last year) and running game (107th nationally) must improve considerably, though they showed signs in the Alamo Bowl win over Michigan. It will help if sophomore I-backs Marlon Lucky and Cody Glenn can break big runs. Taylor needs to cut down on his interceptions (12 last year). A big-play receiver needs to emerge.

How it could go wrong: The Huskers' Sept. 16 game at USC could be a harsh buzz-kill if they get blown out. Callahan has devoted his last two recruiting classes to adding much-needed speed at the skill positions, but it's possible Nebraska still isn't where it needs to be. Even if it is, Taylor & Co. won't be able to get much done if the retooled O-line struggles like it did last year.

Good omen: The last time Nebraska won a national championship, in 1997, the Huskers also visited a Pac-10 campus (Washington) in the third week of the season.

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