Nebraska has had a negative turnover margin for a few years now.
2015 = -1.1.
2014 = -0.2
2013 = -1.0
2012 = -0.9
2011 = 0.0
2010 = +0.1
2009 = +0.4
Dirk Chatelain's analysis in the OWH indicates that in the last four seasons, the turnover margin was especially bad in the "games that matter."
So while the original premise is absolutely correct (that a negative turnover margin indicates a losing record), it appears Nebraska won 9 games from 2012-2014 in spite of that horrendous statistic.
Putting coaching and schedules aside, there have been constants for NU over the past four years = exciting but erratic quarterback play; a sometimes leaky defense (pass this year or run in years past — you pick); and spotty offensive line play.
The difference between a nine-win season and a five-win season at Nebraska has been the lack of explosive playmakers at key positions, especially at running back and defensive end. Without Burkhead and Abdullah's threats to turn a poorly blocked play into a key first down and/or six points, we struggled to run the ball in key situations that would have secured victory in at least three games this year.
So, yeah, Beav — if Nebraska continues to turn the ball over and doesn't have all-conference playmakers at key positions, we'll more than likely continue to see losing seasons.
Time to recruit AND teach ball security.