STEWART MANDEL'S Extra Points

Nebraska coach Bo Pelini has done a remarkable job turning around the Huskers, but his sideline demeanor is over the top. School chancellor Harvey Perlman expressed dismay to the media after Pelini spent much of last week's 9--6 loss to Texas A&M berating the officials and QB Taylor Martinez.... Since losing to Boise State and James Madison, Virginia Tech has won nine straight and clinched a spot in the ACC title game. Meanwhile James Madison (6--5) finished tied for sixth in the Colonial Athletic Association.... Two of the nation's most dominant defenders are buried on mediocre teams. Da'Quan Bowers (15½ sacks) of 6--5 Clemson and Ryan Kerrigan (12½) of 4--7 Purdue are likely to be the defensive ends on most postseason All-America squads.

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BILL FRAKES