Since the Cotton Bowl loss to Auburn on New Year's Day, one of the top priorities for the Nebraska football team has been the development of leadership skills among its upperclassmen.

Senior leadership was a key to the Huskers' Big 12 North Division title run in 2006, but inspirational players like quarterback Zac Taylor, offensive lineman Greg Austin, linebacker Stewart Bradley and defensive ends Adam Carriker and Jay Moore have completed their collegiate careers and passed the torch to the next class of Husker seniors.

Members of the Huskers' class of 2007 say they're ready to lead - on and off the field.

"It's something I've already started doing," linebacker Bo Ruud said at Tuesday's spring football press conference. "I started somewhat last year, but once the seniors left, I didn't hesitate to step in. There's been quite of few guys who have done that."

Ruud and his fellow seniors have been meeting on a regular basis this winter to discuss leadership and ways each member of the Class of 2007 can contribute to the development of the team.

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