12.06.2010 / The Huskers head to San Diego to play Washington again in the Holiday Bowl. Blog posting by Mike Babcock, Huskers Illustrated Magazine
Yes, Nebraska played Washington just three months ago, winning 56-21 in Seattle. And yes, Nebraska will play the Huskies in September, at Memorial Stadium. By then the novelty surely will have worn off, because the Cornhuskers will play Washington in the Holiday Bowl game on Dec. 30 at San Diego, as well.
In an unexpected turn of events, Nebraska finds itself in a rare bowl rematch following its 23-20 loss to Oklahoma in the Big 12 championship game. A victory would have put the Huskers in the Fiesta Bowl against Big East representative Connecticut. That was a certainty. Oklahoma will play in Glendale, Ariz., now.
The media consensus was that a loss on Saturday night would put Nebraska in the Insight Bowl at Tempe, Ariz., however, with Iowa the most likely opponent. Not only would such a match-up be geographically attractive, but also Nebraska has a large alumni presence in the Phoenix area. So it made economic sense. And bowls are all about economics, putting people in the seats.
Nevertheless, Missouri will represent the Big 12 in Tempe, while the Huskers will try to beat Washington for a second time this season, something of a no-win situation.
Perhaps, the Big 12 didn’t want the Insight Bowl to become a three-and-a-half-hour promotion of the Big Ten, of which Nebraska will become a member in July, so it strongly encouraged the selection of Missouri instead. Or perhaps Insight Bowl officials simply preferred the Tigers, with their BCS ranking. Whatever the reason, the Huskers will be back in San Diego for the holidays.
“Our team has worked hard since the start of practice in August and are deserving of an enjoyable bowl experience and the opportunity to win an 11th game,” coach Bo Pelini said.
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Can the Huskers pull-out another win against the Huskies in the Holiday Bowl? Do you think Missouri should be headed to the Insight Bowl instead of the Huskers? Come on Husker fans, post your comments NOW!
