First, there was the offensive line, which paved the way for 223 yards rushing and also gave Dylan Raiola lots of time to throw. All four backs played and ran well. Oregon transfer Dante Dowdell looked like the best, but that was before he fumbled as NU was getting ready to score. Dowdell was good enough that he’ll get another chance, but with depth at running back, turnovers are a ticket to the bench.

There were two takeaways — both interceptions — to offset the fumble on offense. The tackling was good for an opener, but it will have to be spotless next week against Colorado, which likes to throw sideways to the outside and let its receivers break a tackle and romp to a big gain. I’m happy for Ty Robinson, who started his senior year in style. Robinson was responsible for the safety and had buried a UTEP quarterback for a loss. Robinson leading with big plays is a good sign. Going to assume whatever issues the Blackshirts had with the fast tempo will be corrected by next week.

The Huskers showed the kind of formula it will take to beat the Buffs: 223 yards on the ground, 38:32 minutes of possession time, plus-one turnover margin, big plays from receivers and an efficient day from freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola (19-27-238) and a stingy front seven against the run. Enjoy the week. This is going to be a hoot. Now Nebraska fans need to rest their voices.