LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska opened spring practice with a two-hour workout in shorts and helmets, splitting time indoors at the Hawks Championship Center and on the outdoor practice fields.

Coach Bo Pelini said he liked the attitude and effort the Cornhuskers brought into the spring after a challenging winter strength and conditioning program.

The Huskers must replace eight starters from a defense that ranked in the bottom half of the Big Ten in every major category except pass defense. Pelini said he's not overly concerned about what on paper appears to be a lack of experience. He said all but a few players were with the team last year, ``so it's not like they are starting from day one.''

The Huskers return to practice Monday. The spring game is April 6.