Lincoln, Neb. – Coach Matt Rhule steps into his fourth year at the helm of Nebraska football with a record of 19‑19 overall and 10‑17 in Big Ten play. The 2025 season ended at 7‑6, and the upcoming schedule presents a formidable challenge for a program that has not defeated a Top‑25 opponent in 30 straight games.
Schedule highlights and early tests
The Cornhuskers open the conference slate against Indiana on Oct. 10, travel to Oregon a week later, and close the regular season with a showdown at Ohio State on Nov. 21. In addition, three November road trips add further strain, making consistency a key factor for any chance at a bowl appearance.
Offensive outlook
Quarterback Anthony Colandrea, the 2025 Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year, returns as the centerpiece of the offense. While he excelled at the lower‑division level, he now faces the “gantlet” of Big Ten defenses for the first time. The receiving corps features returning talent such as Nyziah Hunter, Jacory Barney Jr., and tight end Luke Lindenmeyer, with UCLA transfer Kwazi Gilmer offering a potential game‑changing element.
The offensive line regains stability with left tackle Elijah Pritchett back in the lineup, and center Justin Evans, regarded as one of the nation’s top players at his position, anchors the interior.
Running back situation
The departure of former Big Ten rushing leader Emmett Johnson leaves a sizable void. Mekhi Nelson, who returned after an offseason legal incident in Florida (aggravated battery charges were later dropped), is expected to share carries. Transfers such as Penn State’s Tikey Hayes and former wide receiver Isaiah Mozee, now competing for rushing duties, add depth. Spring‑game standout Jamal Rule also joins the backfield competition.
Defensive changes
Defensive coordinator Rob Aurich is tasked with revamping a unit that struggled to generate quarterback pressure and stop the run. The line, which contributed to Nebraska’s 18th‑ranked red‑zone defense in the conference, must improve its ability to disrupt opposing offenses.
Key additions include safety Dwayne McDougle III, a transfer from San Diego State who posted four interceptions, three pass breakups and 55 tackles last season, and linebacker Owen Chambliss, also from San Diego State, who earned All‑Mountain West first‑team honors with 110 tackles.
Season outlook
Given the strength of the non‑conference schedule, analysts project Nebraska to win at least seven games and secure a third consecutive bowl invitation, provided the team can capitalize on its lighter early opponents. Success will hinge on the ability of the revamped defense to apply pressure, the development of new running backs, and the continued growth of Colandrea as a true‑level quarterback.
While the Cornhuskers have not surpassed seven wins in a season since 2016, the combination of experienced leadership, promising transfers, and a refreshed defensive scheme offers a pathway to break the long‑standing streak against ranked opponents.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
