× Thanks for reading! Log in to continue. Enjoy more articles by logging in or creating a free account. No credit card required. Log in Sign up {{featured_button_text}}

LINCOLN — Mike Riley watched his future team practice Tuesday, and the Holiday Bowl on Dec. 27 will be the Huskers’ last game before the former Oregon State head coach takes over for good.

But NU sophomore quarterback Tommy Armstrong said returning Huskers aren’t worried about the Holiday Bowl being their first chance to make a good impression on the new staff.

“We’re going to play our game; we’re going to do what we always do,” Armstrong said. “We’re not trying to make a statement. We’re just trying to go out there and have fun, and we’re going to enjoy this last game with our coaching staff.”

Then the team can look ahead.

“We just got to make sure that we all stick together, and we welcome all the new coaches,” Armstrong said. “We just got to make sure we all have open arms and be respectful, and just be able to overcome everything that’s happened.”

Starting shots on line

Two Huskers staring at big opportunities in San Diego and during bowl practices will be offensive linemen Paul Thurston and Matt Finnin, who both could be in line for their first starts.