Lincoln, Neb.- The Nebraska football team returned to the practice field for the first time in preparation for its Dec. 27 National University Holiday Bowl game in San Diego against the USC Trojans. The Huskers went through a 60-minute practice under the guidance of Interim Head Coach Barney Cotton.

Cotton met with media members following the conclusion of practice.  Cotton mentioned that the team’s first practice back together was really good and upbeat.

“It was a good practice today, very high tempo, a lot of good energy and a good serious conditioning session after practice,” Cotton said. “Up-beat practice—proud of them today.”

According to Cotton, he has a pretty simple message for the team moving forward, four basic things that the team should live by for the next three weeks.

“I am basically telling them four things—honor God with your effort. Honor your teammates with your effort. Honor Coach Bo (Pelini) with your loyalty and love and support, along with your effort.” Cotton said. “And let’s reveal our character one last time in the Holiday Bowl.”

As for the response has been getting from the players, Cotton said that the team has been working extremely hard to get back into good physical health.

“I think it has been very good so far, staying in touch with Coach Dobson and checking down in the weight room, I have been getting good—better than good, great reviews from the weight room,” he said. “I have been stopping down in the training room, everyone is trying to get themselves healed up for the bowl game and we are encouraging the guys to finish strong academically.”

Cotton added, “It was nice to honor 21 Academic All-Big Ten guys, their teammates game them a big round of applause there after practice.”

The Nebraska football team will be back on the practice field Thursday afternoon in preparation for their Dec. 27 Holiday Bowl matchup against the USC Trojans. Kickoff between the Huskers and Trojans will be at 7p.m., and the game can be seen on ESPN.