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| | AP Photo/Nati Harnik |
| | New coach Bo Pelini knows that people in Nebraska are passionate about his Cornhuskers. |
Posted by ESPN.com's Tim Griffin
LINCOLN, Neb. -- The hiring of new Nebraska coach Bo Pelini has sparked a wave of emotion from Cornhusker fans who are intent on blotting out bad memories of last season's disappointing 5-7 record.
Before Pelini's first game, there have been books written about him and even a polka penned about the plain-spoken former defensive coordinator at LSU.
When asked about his rock-star status in the Cornhusker State, Pelini chuckled with wonderment about his new-found notoriety.
It became clear to him last week when he made a barnstorming tour through the western part of the state with several school officials, including athletic director Tom Osborne.
"I think people are excited and passionate about football and the program around here," Pelini said. "Obviously, I'm the head coach. There are some people who make a lot of sacrifices and drive a long way to get to our football games. It was a great reaction."
Pelini said he hasn't actually heard the polka and doesn't plan celebrating any victories by taking up the new dance.
"I've heard about it," Pelini said, chuckling. "I can say that I can't dance and won't be doing it anytime soon."
Tim Griffin joined ESPN.com in February 2008. He has covered the Big 12 since its inception, among a variety of beats during a 24-year career at the San Antonio Express-News. Griffin, a Memphis State University graduate, lives in San Antonio with his wife and son.
