Taylor Martinez Quotes

Nebraska Football
Weekly Press Conference
Memorial Stadium (Lincoln, Neb.)
Monday, Oct. 29, 2012
Pre-Michigan State

Taylor Martinez
Jr., Quarterback, Corona, Calif.
On what challenges Michigan State's defense presents
"They're a really good defense, and we just have to play our game."

On if anything stands out
"No, not really. If we play our game, we should be perfectly fine."

On how much momentum the team has coming off of two wins
"I think we have a lot of momentum. Our defense has played great. Our offense has to keep putting points on the board, not kicking field goals."

On the difference of this year's team compared to previous years when dealing with success
"We have a lot of leadership on this team, and I think we're on a roll. I think we're starting to compete as a team. I think, right now, we're really good."

On if teams are starting to respect his passing ability
"Yes, I think so."

On if he thinks Michigan State will come after him
"It's hard to say, I'm not really sure. Every team plays differently so you never know."

On if they came after him last year with the blitz
"It's about 50-50."

On how he responds to teams targeting him with the blitz
"I prefer blitzes. I think it leaves open gaps. I'd prefer it."

On what it was like to have a big win with family in town
"It was awesome to have my family there and my grandparents and my brother. It was awesome that they were there."

On what stands out about Michigan State's defense
"They're really well-coached and have great players. If we execute, we should be fine."

On how important early downs will be
"It's very important not to get penalties and to get first downs."

On what the trouble was for the offense in the red zone against Michigan
"I don't know. They're a really good defense and the little stuff kept breaking down. It happens, so there's not much you can say about it."

On if other teams have used a similar no-huddle offense against Michigan State
"I think just Michigan. I'm not really sure."

On the no-huddle offense
"If we speed it up, the defenses get tired. It works to our advantage and they can't line up and we keep going so it's hard."

On how he feels physically, and if he reinjured his ankle from before
"I feel a little banged up. I hurt my ankle, the other one."

On how he felt in the second half
"I felt all right. I fought through it."

On if he has to do extra work this week to be ready
"Yes. I'll be doing treatment. I'll be fine for the game."