Nebraska Football’s Bold New Era: Can They Shake Up the B1G Powerhouse?
Every fall, the Nebraska faithful find themselves clutching onto hope like it’s their favorite game-worn jersey. The whispers start early: Can this be the year the Huskers finally crack the conference ceiling? Truth be told, that hopeful tune has been a bit off-key since the Mike Riley days, with Nebraska struggling to find its footing beyond a .500 conference record. But hang on — this season feels a little different. The gauntlet mostly lands in the friendly confines of Memorial Stadium, save for that pesky Penn State showdown. Opening against Michigan sets the stage — a true litmus test for just how far this squad has come. Sure, the Wolverines look sharp on paper, but dig a little deeper, and their recent struggles against teams like Oklahoma tell a story of their own. If Nebraska can harness their talent—and yes, I’m talking about that promising offensive line and dynamic passing game—this could be a turning point. Defensive puzzles loom, especially containing a mobile quarterback like Bryce Underwood, but the Huskers’ secondary is primed to rise to the occasion. With crowd noise ready to fuel them, I’m cautiously optimistic that Nebraska’s time to step up is now. Grab your gear, Big Red — it’s game time!
It’s officially come to that time of year, where every Nebraska fan starts to dream of big things. It always comes with one question: just how good can Nebraska be in conference play? Husker fans are usually disappointed with that answer by the end of the season, as Nebraska hasn’t finished above .500 in conference play since Mike Riley.
This year, I believe it can be different. Most of the tough games are at home this year (minus Penn State of course). It starts with Michigan, who would be a good barometer for what Nebraska can become this season. Husker fans over the last two weeks have been apprehensive about the quality of opponent, all while flipping out about how good Michigan looked last week. Need I remind you, they played a MAC school, like we have.
Michigan overall struggled pretty hard against Oklahoma. The Huskers, talent wise, are probably fairly close to the Sooners in my opinion. Nebraska just needs to come out and show it. Michigan will rely on its run game, which will be particularly interesting given the youth and inexperienced front seven the Blackshirts have. Mix in a mobile quarterback in Bryce Underwood and it’s easy to understand the apprehension. Mobile QBs and Nebraska’s defense go as well as oil and water.
The other big question will be what Nebraska’s offensive line can do with regards of pass protection. When given the time to throw, Dylan Raiola has looked phenomenal, and if the blocking is good, I suspect he’ll have a big game. I like the versatility Nebraska has in its passing game, the speed, height and physicality brings and element that Michigan hasn’t seen for most of the season.
Against the Sooners, Bryce Underwood went 9-24 for 142 yards. Nebraska boasts the best secondary in the nation, so keeping him from running will be paramount. Michigan also only ran for 146 yards, with 75 of that coming on a TD run the first play of the second half against OU. The front seven will have to contain things to make the young QB throw the ball. If Michigan has to throw a lot, definite advantage Nebraska.
The Michigan defense is not one of the best they’ve had in recent years, so the Husker offense can exploit it. The Wolverine defense has forced 2 turnovers in every game so far this season, but knock on wood, the Huskers have taken care of the football. Matt Rhule has emphasized taking care of the rock, as Emmett Johnson found out the hard way for a few possessions against Akron. Being fundamentally sound will be a big key to victory for Nebraska.
I’m really intrigued by this one. Cautiously optimistic, but I feel like Nebraska can get the job done. If the only reason behind that is because we are at home, then so be it. I trust the crowd will be up for this one as much as the players will be. It might not be Colorado last year loud, but it will be noisy nonetheless. The Huskers have to take a step in the correct direction, no better time than now. Go Big Red!
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