I know most people are focues on the second half performance differential in this game, but what really stands out to me about it is the fact that KU was 3 for 12 (25%) on third down while Nebraska was 6 for 14 (43%).   KU may have won the turnover differential 4-1, but Nebraska won the “we didn’t have to punt and you did” differential by 6-3.  

It’s kind of trite to say it, but the easiest way to get the ball back to your offense in football is by just lining up and stopping the other team from getting 10 yards.  Turnovers are dramatic and all that, but much like the last guy in his class at medical school being called “Dr.”, receiving a punt puts the ball back in your QB’s hands just the same as an interception or fumble.

Tags: Football, kansas, nebraska, third down