Are four running backs equal to one?

The only surprise on Nebraska’s roster is that the competition for running backs will continue into the season and that four running backs – Rahmir Johnson, Emmett Johnson, Gabe Ervin and Dante Dowdell – have a chance.

I thought Matt Rhule would pick a clear first-team defenseman. Is there a great defenseman in the house — or one who can make it home? I see four good defensemen.

Rhule made an interesting comment: “If we block four (yards), four has to become 12. If we block four, it has to become 80.”

True. I see some running backs who should be able to do the 12 yards. The 80? I don’t see any significant difference.

And more importantly, how about a running back who can find the end zone from the red zone?

I’m wondering a few things: How much time does Nebraska spend running the ball in practice? And does that hinder the running backs?

Oh, and could Nebraska come out and plow the field to win a game like Georgia Tech steamrolled Florida State on Saturday?

That doesn’t change my opinion of the offense: It’s going to be a throwing offense. And when you have Dylan Raiola and that many receivers, you can play to your strengths.

Is it permissible to use the word “abundance” in connection with football?

As I said, “Run the Damn Ball” has been replaced with “Protect the Damn Ball.” But does that fit on a hat?

Prediction: The running back who can best take care of the ball and protect passes will be on the field the most. Committees aren’t always bad. But the best running games have a chairman.

In my four decades of writing, I’ve seen a handful of coaches say they haven’t spoken to a particular media representative. But here’s the thing: No school or coach can stop us from asking questions.

When I saw it, the reporter in question usually clarified it with the coach. Or just left it alone – which was always the case.

Deion can cancel any questions. We’ll get some answers Thursday night when Colorado plays North Dakota State.

I hear from a lot of people who have already figured out CU. What if the buffs are really good?

I know some people make fun of the way the blackshirts are distributed and covered. I hope this story is brought up again and again. The reaction of players when they get one is still priceless. It means so much. Things that mean a lot in this game should be celebrated – and encouraged.

Can we bring the red balloons back now?

I loved ESPN’s “No Place Like Nebraska.” It’s a show that athletes, parents and coaches should watch more than once. There are so many important lessons to be learned from it. These kids are human beings with flaws. They’re still kids.

Harper Murray, you are a champion.

And the part where coach John Cook talks about adapting to build relationships with his players is gold. Too many older coaches give up rather than adapt to the evolving hurdles of college sports. That’s their right. But the best coaches have always adapted. That adaptation helped Cook build his best roster — and find meaning later in his career.

Interesting perspective from Creighton volleyball coach Kirsten Bernthal-Booth on what it’s like to build a national program near Nebraska:

“For me, it’s just a game, and I guess it’s just a game against Nebraska. It’s a fantastic team with a high RPI. Plus, Terry Pettit has been a great mentor to me. There’s no doubt that Creighton – Wayne State and Kearney – are what they are because of Nebraska. I always think of this game as a celebration of the incredible volleyball in this state.”

“We don’t recruit against Nebraska that often. They get the best recruits in the country. Unless they’re from Omaha, they probably won’t consider us right now. We’re looking at the next level where we know we’re getting incredible players that we see potential in.”

I found it interesting that immediately after Florida State lost to Georgia Tech on Saturday, ESPN’s commentators were already talking about FSU being in the playoff race. That’s true. But no one was talking about Georgia Tech being in the race.

Greg Sharpe told me he’ll be in the locker room Saturday to commentate on Nebraska’s season opener, and the day already feels like a victory.