Lincoln, Neb. – The Nebraska Huskers entered Week 5 of the 2026 season riding a perfect 4‑0 record after a dominant 31‑13 win over Michigan State, their first Big Ten opening victory since 2019. On Tuesday, offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen, defensive coordinator Rob Aurich and several players gathered at the Hawks Championship Center to field media questions about Saturday’s performance and the upcoming home game against Maryland, scheduled for Saturday at 3 p.m.
Offensive outlook
Holgorsen praised the Huskers’ balanced attack but warned that Maryland’s defense presents a unique challenge. “They’re stingy against the run, big linebackers – rangy linebackers – who fill downhill,” he said. “They’re doing a good job of mixing coverages on the back end… and so not only their pass rush, it’s the whole thing. They gave UCLA fits. I don’t care what the score was, you just watch the silent tape on that.” Holgorsen referenced Maryland’s recent 54‑3 home loss to UCLA, noting that such a defeat can provide the Terrapins with extra motivation.
Player perspective
Wide receiver Kwazi Gilmer, who posted four catches for 101 yards and a touchdown in the Michigan State game, echoed that sentiment. “When you get beat that much by a team, you have an edge on yourself like, ‘oh, we’re coming in next week trying to prove something,’” Gilmer said. “So I think Maryland’s going to come out here this weekend and try to prove something. We’ll have to have a mindset like this is trying to be a winning team.”
Defensive considerations
Defensive coordinator Rob Aurich focused on Maryland quarterback Malik Washington, who threw four interceptions in the UCLA loss. “Talented kid. Big arm, long. Does not take sacks, his sack avoidance rate is off the chart,” Aurich noted. “I know last week wasn’t the showing they were looking for but there’s a ton that he’s done that make you really think about how you attack him.”
Cornerback Andrew Marshall added that Washington’s mobility makes him a difficult target. “He’s very good at getting out of sticky situations when it comes to rushing him as a quarterback,” Marshall said. “Which means that as the back half of the defense, we have to be good in coverage.”
Historical context
Last season, Nebraska traveled to College Park and edged Maryland 34‑31 in a thrilling contest. The upcoming game offers the Huskers a chance to avenge that loss and continue their unbeaten run, while Maryland looks to rebound from a humbling defeat and prove they can compete in the Big Ten.
Looking ahead
Both coordinators emphasized preparation and discipline. Holgorsen said the staff will focus on limiting Maryland’s varied coverages and exploiting any gaps in the Terrapins’ pass rush. Aurich highlighted the need for the secondary to stay disciplined against Washington’s improvisational style.
Fans can expect a hard‑fought contest at Memorial Stadium, with Nebraska aiming to extend its winning streak and solidify its position in the conference standings. The game will be broadcast locally and streamed online, providing ample opportunity for the community to rally behind the team.
Original reporting: KLKN-TV – News, Weather and Sports for Lincoln, Nebraska — read the source article.
