While Saturday's spring game was only a scrimmage for Nebraska players and coaches, it offered a preview of the possibilities for the coming season and the fans soaked it up in sunny Lincoln.

Bo is back and so are the Nebraska faithful. Fans lined up outside the stadium gates three hours before kickoff. They just seemed anxious to get back into the spirit of football and get a first look at what the new head coach brings to the program.

Husker fans came out in droves for the sold out 2008 Red-White game. The Husker spring game record of 80,149 was the second largest in college football history behind the 92,138 that showed up in Alabama last year.

Anybody got extra tickets? “No. I flew out from Chicago for this special game and I'm keeping my tickets,” said one fan.

Excitement and a sense of renewal surrounded Memorial Stadium as Bo Pelini made his head coaching debut. "It's great as a Husker fan to know that they're taking care of our Nebraska boys and our Nebraska fans, our tradition," said Julie Sparks.

One of those traditions is tailgating. Though only a spring game, the fans were in mid-season form. "This is tailgating right here, lots of Husker fans, some brews, some food, warm weather, what can you ask for?” said Blake Bauman. "This is the best, this what Nebraska fans do."

And they came dressed the part. "Got a '73 vest, '68 tie, just purchased the pants yesterday," said Kevin Owens.

“Family, friends, a good time, Husker win,” said Chris Bohmenkamp. “We are guaranteed a win, right now spring game, we're going to win.

"We have a Husker room in the house, she's got I don't know how many Husker outfits, we watch all the games, she will be inundated in it," said Kellie Heald.

A group of eighth-graders from around the heartland were given free admission to the game in exchange for a promise, to say no to drugs.

They took the pledge during halftime, reading their personal ambitions and the goals they're striving to achieve. The students said they know staying on the right track will lead them to a positive future.

The Red squad beat the White team 24-14, but what seemed to matter most was the feeling that it's a new year and the Big Red magic is working its way back.

Nebraska opens the regular season hosting Western Michigan on August 30th.