Huskers Amped Up to Face Cyclones

The Nebraska football team wrapped up its practice week Thursday with a two-hour workout inside the Hawks Championship Center. The Huskers emphasized execution, physicality and effort, especially on offense, as they get ready for the Iowa State Cyclones to come into town on Saturday.

"I think we had a good week of practice. Now it's time to put it to the test on Saturday," Head Coach Bo Pelini said. "I'm looking forward to it. I wish it was in about an hour."

Wide receiver Chris Brooks was held out of practice Thursday because of an injury and Pelini said they aren't counting on Brooks to be able to play on Saturday. Pelini is hopeful that the rest of the receiving corps can make up for Brooks' absence.

"They had a good week," Pelini said. "I liked the physicality they brought to the table. I liked the way they blocked. I thought we made some steps forward in that area. Now we've got to put it on the field on Saturday."

Pelini also announced on Thursday that linebacker Blake Lawrence has hung up his cleats for good but will remain with the team as a volunteer coach.

"I feel bad for Blake. It's the right thing for his future. You start having some concussions and things, he's an intelligent kid with a tremendous future ahead of him in whatever he decides to do after playing here. He's still a big part of this football team."

Nebraska and Iowa State kick off at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday. Television coverage will be provided by Fox Sports Net.