Monday was not a good day to be Nebraska coach Bo Pelini.
Following his team's 41-21 loss Saturday to UCLA in which the Cornhuskers allowed 38 consecutive points, Pelini got into a brief spat with legendary former Nebraska quarterback Tommie Frazier, insinuating the team "doesn't need him."
That dust-up was followed by Deadspin publishing a recorded conversation between Pelini, broadcaster Greg Sharpe of the Nebraska Sports Network and an unidentified woman prior to the press conference following the Cornhuskers' come-from-behind victory over Ohio State on Oct. 8, 2011.
Pelini, who's known for his short fuse, goes on a profanity-laced tirade directed at columnist Tom Shatel of the Omaha World-Herald before directing his venom toward Nebraska fans in general.
A message left by Sporting News with Nebraska's media relations office was not immediately returned.
Pelini is 51-21 in six seasons at Nebraska but has dealt with heavy criticism regarding his abrasive personality and the perception that his teams never meet expectations.
UPDATE: Pelini issued an apology Monday night:
"I want to sincerely apologize for my comments from two years ago which became public today," Pelini said in a statement released by the school. "I take full responsibility for these comments. They were spoken in a private room following the Ohio State game. I was venting following a series of emotional events which led to this moment. That being said, these comments are in no way indicative of my true feelings. I love it here in Nebraska and feel fortunate to be associated with such a great University and fan base. I again apologize to anyone whom I have offended."
Nebraska chancellor Harvey Perlman said he was disappointed by the 2011 comments.
"We are taking some time to consider it and what impact it would have on the university," Perlman said.
Perlman declined to answer whether Pelini was in danger of losing his job.
Athletic director Shawn Eichorst said he talked to Pelini about the rant.
"I am disheartened and disappointed by the 2011 comments published today attributed to Coach Pelini about our dedicated and passionate fans and supporters," Eichorst said in a statement. "I have spoken with Chancellor Perlman and I have addressed the situation with Bo and expressed our deep concern."
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