The Blackshirts

He Never Applied: How Dave Tollefson Coached His Way Onto Nebraska's Staff

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Photo courtesy Nebraska Athletics

Husker fans, here’s a story Matt Rhule told at the end of camp that had nothing to do with the depth chart, and it might tell you more about how he builds a staff than anything else he said.

It starts with a guy who came to Lincoln as somebody’s friend.

He just kept showing up

Nebraska had a guest in the building during bowl prep last December. Dave Tollefson came along with him.

Then he came back. And back.

“He just kept showing up, showing up, showing up,” Rhule said. “Unpaid, unpaid, unpaid. Didn’t apply for a job.”

Read that again. A two-time Super Bowl champion with the New York Giants was in the Nebraska facility working with defensive linemen for free, and never once asked anybody for a title.

Eventually Rhule said something about it.

“One day I was like, ‘Hey, you should just stick around.’ So we started paying him.”

“Those are my kind of guys”

That line is the whole thing:

“Lots of people ask me for a job. Some people just start doing the job — and you end up hiring them.”

Tollefson is now in his first season as a defensive analyst, working the interior line alongside defensive line coach Corey Brown. He came in for the Las Vegas Bowl and never left.

He’s got Omaha ties and three young sons, and he played his college ball at Northwest Missouri State — not exactly the standard résumé for a man with two Super Bowl rings.

Why it might actually matter on Saturdays

Here’s the part Husker fans should care about. Rhule was blunt about what went wrong up front last season:

“If we did one thing poorly last year, we kind of jumped around with the techniques, and the players didn’t improve on the defensive line.”

Different coaches, different teaching, no consistency — and it showed. So when he was asked what’s changed, he handed the credit straight to the people doing the teaching:

“All the technical improvements that we’ve made — that’s all Corey Brown, that’s all Roy Manning, that’s all Dave and Phil.”

Rhule says he’s now seeing improvement deep into the roster, not just with the starters. He mentioned watching the threes and fours — guys likely headed for scout team — and seeing their technique and discipline get noticeably better.

He also put the qualifier on it himself, which is the honest part: “We’ve got to see it in the games.”

The point

Nebraska’s defensive line was the problem last year. It got four new voices teaching it, and one of them talked his way in by not talking at all — he just turned up and did the work until somebody handed him a paycheck.

Husker fans, we find out on September 5 whether it took. But you can see what kind of room Rhule is trying to build.

Anthony Colandrea: 7,542 Yards, Three Programs, and Nebraska's Guy

Sun, 23 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Photo courtesy Nebraska Athletics

Husker fans, you have a quarterback. Matt Rhule settled it Saturday at the end of camp, and he did not dress it up:

“Anthony would play for us right now.”

That’s Anthony Colandrea, and he takes the first snap against Ohio on September 5.

He has done this before. A lot.

This is the part worth knowing. Nebraska did not hand the job to someone learning it — Colandrea has started 25 games over the last two seasons alone.

He arrived at Virginia in 2023 and immediately set the school’s freshman records for completions (154) and passing yards (1,958), leading every true freshman in Power Conference football in passing yards. As a sophomore he started 11 games and threw for 2,125 yards and 13 touchdowns.

Then he went to UNLV for 2025 and had the best year of his life: all 14 games started, 275-of-417 for 3,459 yards and 23 touchdowns, right around 250 yards a game. They named him Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year.

Add it up and he comes to Lincoln with 7,542 passing yards and 49 touchdowns — plus 1,151 yards and 12 more scores with his legs.

He committed to Nebraska on January 6.

What Rhule actually likes about him

Ask Rhule and the first thing out of his mouth isn’t the arm.

“He’s very competitive, very fiery,” Rhule said. “He expects to win every play.”

But the second thing is the discipline, which is the harder trick for a gunslinger — Rhule credited him with “disciplining himself to also take what’s there,” making good checks in the run-pass game, and yes, throwing it deep.

And then the part that shows up on Saturdays:

“He extends a ton of plays with his legs, which takes a lot of pressure off of the offensive line and the backs and protection, and puts a lot of pressure on the defense.”

Here’s the tell that it’s real. Talking about how his defensive line practices its pass rush, Rhule brought up the same thing unprompted — his rushers are “facing Anthony and TJ every day,” and “those guys get out, and it could be an explosive play.” Nebraska’s own defense has spent camp chasing him.

Behind him

Rhule left the backup job open. “Danny and TJ would both be in the mix for number two,” he said — that’s Daniel Kaelin, the Elkhorn kid out of Bellevue West, and TJ Lateef from Compton.

One small thing you might notice on the roster: Colandrea and Kaelin both came to Lincoln from Virginia.

What it means

Colandrea is 6-foot, 200 pounds, out of Lakewood High in St. Petersburg, Florida, and Nebraska is the third program he’s started for.

Some fans hear “third school” and worry. Read the record instead: he got better at each stop, and he’s coming off the best season of his career and a conference player of the year award.

Husker fans, that’s your guy — 11:00 in the morning, September 5, on FS1. Two weeks.

Nebraska's 2026 Roster: 31 Nebraskans, 30 Transfers, and Only 18 Seniors

Sat, 22 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Husker fans, camp is over and the roster is set. So let’s actually look at who is on this team — because the answer says more about where the program is than any depth chart will.

115 players. 31 of them are from Nebraska. 30 came from another college. And only 18 are seniors.

The portal half

Read the transfer list and it stops looking like a rebuild.

Nebraska brought in players from Alabama, LSU — two of them — Oregon, Michigan State, Missouri, Pitt, Boston College, UCLA, California and Georgia. Offensive lineman Elijah Pritchett came from Alabama. Paul Mubenga and Mac Markway both came from LSU.

Some have been around. Defensive lineman Anthony Jones Jr. lists four previous schools before Lincoln — Oregon, Indiana, Michigan State and UCLA. That is a lot of football, and a lot of playbooks.

Quarterback Anthony Colandrea, who Matt Rhule said Saturday “would play for us right now,” is on his third program.

The Nebraska half

Then there’s the other 31 — and this is the part worth sitting with.

They are not all Omaha kids. Nine are, from Westside and Millard South and Creighton Prep and North. But the rest come from Ainsworth. Yutan. Battle Creek. Wahoo. Hickman. Scottsbluff. North Platte. Blair. Norfolk.

Elkhorn alone put five players on this roster.

That’s a map of the state, not a map of one metro.

Where Nebraska still recruits Nebraska

Here’s the number that surprised us most.

The tight end room is four of six in-state — Carter Nelson from Ainsworth, Luke Lindenmeyer from La Vista, Cayden Echternach from Bennington and Eric Ingwerson from Papillion.

Linebacker is six of 13. The offensive line is six of 20.

Now compare that to the skill spots. Wide receiver is two of 16. Defensive back is three of 21.

The pattern is hard to miss: Nebraska goes to the portal and out of state for speed, and stays home for the guys who have to block, tackle and play in the trenches. Whether that’s by design or by what’s available, it’s what this roster actually looks like.

And it is young

Eighteen seniors on a 115-man roster. Forty-two sophomores.

That’s the context for what Rhule said about development at the end of camp — that who a kid was two years ago isn’t who he is now, and that one of his defensive linemen put on 30 pounds since the end of last season.

A roster this young either grows up in front of you or it doesn’t. There isn’t a veteran class deep enough to hide behind.

Husker fans, this is the team. Half of it was assembled from everywhere else, half of it grew up watching these Saturdays — and starting with Ohio, we find out what that adds up to.

Nebraska Volleyball's 2026 Roster: A Senior at Every Position That Matters

Sat, 22 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Photo courtesy Nebraska Athletics

Husker fans, the Huskers open the season ranked No. 1 in the country — and for once the preseason poll isn’t a leap of faith. Look at the roster and you can see exactly why the coaches voted the way they did.

Nebraska took 57 of the first-place votes in the AVCA Preseason Coaches Poll, ahead of Texas, Kentucky, Pitt and Stanford. It’s the program’s 124th week at No. 1 all time — more than anyone else has ever managed.

Here’s what’s underneath it.

Four seniors, and look where they play

Nebraska has exactly four seniors on a 16-player roster. Now look at which four:

Bergen Reilly — setter
Laney Choboy — libero
Andi Jackson — middle blocker
Harper Murray — outside hitter

Setter. Libero. Middle. Outside. That is every position that runs a volleyball match, and a senior is standing in each one.

Think about what that means in a fifth set. The player deciding where the ball goes has seen it before. So has the one passing it, the one blocking in the middle, and the one you’re going to when there’s no other option.

Experience isn’t spread thin across this roster — it’s concentrated exactly where pressure lands.

And ten who are just getting started

Behind those four: seven sophomores and three freshmen. Ten of sixteen players are underclassmen.

That’s not a gap. That’s a program restocking while it’s on top.

The freshmen are not small, either — middle blocker Keoni Williams at 6-4, outside hitters Jayden Robinson at 6-3 and Gabby DiVita at 6-1. Nebraska didn’t bring in project players to sit for three years.

The front row is enormous

Every middle blocker on this roster is 6-3 or taller. Kenna Cogill and Williams both stand 6-4. Jackson and Manaia Ogbechie are 6-3.

The tallest player on the team is sophomore opposite Virginia Adriano at 6-5, from Turin, Italy.

And the shortest? Choboy, the senior libero, at 5-3 — which tells you everything about how differently that position is built.

Two Nebraskans, and that’s the point

Only two players call Nebraska home: Keri Leimbach of Lincoln Lutheran and Olivia Mauch of Bennington.

Compare that to the football team, where 31 of 115 players are from Nebraska. Different sport, completely different math.

Volleyball recruits nationally because it can. When you’re the program with more weeks at No. 1 than anyone in the country, players from Michigan, North Carolina, Arizona, Colorado and Italy come to you.

Husker fans, the poll says No. 1 and the roster agrees — veterans where it counts, size everywhere, and a sophomore class already waiting. Let’s see it.

Who's Really About It: The Single Digits Are Coming, and a Freshman Could Get One

Sat, 22 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Photo courtesy Nebraska Athletics

Big Red Nation, training camp is in the books — and the announcement you actually care about is close.

Matt Rhule confirmed Saturday that the single digits are coming back. Asked whether the tradition he brought to Lincoln would continue, he did not hedge: “Single digits. Yes. Yep.”

When? “Soon.”

He wanted camp finished first, and the reasoning is worth hearing. Three weeks of camp is a résumé — the offseason isn’t.

“It’s one thing to be gritty and tough and care about your teammates in the summer in the offseason,” Rhule told reporters. “It’s a lot lot lot different when you’re trying to fight through the grind of camp.”

Season-long captains are a different question

Here’s the part that surprised us. Rhule said he had never named a season-long captain until last year — and only then because the players came to him and asked for one.

His instinct runs the other way. Leadership shows up in the bad weeks, not the convenient ones.

“It’s easy to be a great leader when things are convenient,” he said. “It’s hard to stand up here and answer the tough questions when things aren’t going well.”

So the single digits are settled. Captains are genuinely not. Rhule laid out three options — vote now, wait until the fall, or wait until the season is over — and landed on “we’ll see.”

And yes, a freshman could wear one

This is the part Husker fans should sit with.

“I don’t care who that is,” Rhule said. “I don’t care if that’s a freshman.”

He has been here before. At Temple, a young safety named Sean Chandler got a single digit as a true freshman — the No. 3 — because his teammates decided he had earned it. Rhule has said he didn’t want to give a single digit to a freshman back then. The players overruled him.

Chandler went on to sign with the Giants as an undrafted free agent and play 32 games there, before joining Rhule again in Carolina.

Not a bad argument for trusting the locker room.

The players decide — and Rhule put an edge on it

He is handing them the vote, and he was blunt about what could go wrong with it.

“They can either make it a popularity contest, or they can make it a hey, who’s really about it,” Rhule said. “I hope they make good decisions.”

That is the whole test, isn’t it? A vote tells you as much about the people casting it as the person winning it. Rhule said he’s hoping this team is entering a phase “where it’s not whose feelings are going to get in the way, but it’s really just what’s the right thing for the team.”

He also said he liked what he saw in camp — a group with “a little bit of edge,” holding each other accountable without needing one guy to deliver a speech.

Soon we find out who they picked.

Husker fans, the numbers are coming — and the names on them will tell you everything about this team before Ohio ever takes the field.

Suh Causes One More Fumble at Nebraska

Sat, 22 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Photo by Denny Paulsen

Husker fans, I have been sitting on this one for almost two years, and the reason is embarrassing.

In October 2024, Ndamukong Suh went into the University of Nebraska Athletics Hall of Fame — one of six inductees that night, across six different sports. I had a credential, a list of questions, and a chair across from the best defensive player this program has ever produced.

Then he walked in and sat down, and I forgot how to talk.

Here is the thing nobody warns you about. He is massive. You know that already, you have watched the tape — but knowing it and sitting across from it are not the same experience. And he was kind. Genuinely, disarmingly kind, which somehow made it worse. I had the questions. I had practiced them. I stuttered through them anyway.

So there it is. Suh caused one more fumble at Nebraska. Mine.

What saved it is that he was good at this and I was not.

I asked about soccer, because his sister plays and he played too, and I wanted to know which of them was better. He did not hesitate for a second. She is. No qualifier, no former-All-American footnote. Just — she is.

I asked about Texas. About what he did to Colt McCoy, about the fact that people were still arguing over that performance fifteen years later. Does it get old?

He loved it. Still does.

And then he talked about the thing he actually came to talk about, which had nothing to do with football. Financial literacy for kids. He is putting money behind getting it taught, and it is plainly the subject he most wants to be asked about. That is where he leaned forward.

I have the video. My half of it is not good, and I have never posted it. I am not going to.

But the conversation happened, and two years of sitting on it has not made it any less worth telling. He is in the College Football Hall of Fame now as well, selected in January as Nebraska’s 21st inductee. Everybody wrote that one up.

Nobody wrote up the part where a kid from Omaha who stood in the intersection at 72nd and Dodge in 1994 finally got himself a credential, sat down across from Ndamukong Suh, and could not get the words out.

Husker fans, if you ever get your shot at something like this — take it. Fumble it if you have to. It still counts.

Husker Nation Set the Records This Time

Fri, 21 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Photo by Denny Paulsen

Husker fans, this one is about you.

Nebraska Athletics announced Friday that 2025-26 broke records in nearly every direction that matters. Read the list and notice who set them. Not a coach, not a recruiting class — people giving, people buying, people showing up.

Start with the giving. 16,815 donors put $71,658,087 into the Huskers Athletic Fund. Nothing in program history is close. It is also the second year running above $70 million, and the fifth straight past $57 million.

That is not a spike. That is a habit.

The fund grew, too: 1,200-plus names added over the year, now spread across 47 states. And the Nebraska Leadership Society, which recognizes the biggest commitments, went from 379 members to 635 — nearly double, in the year it turns ten.

Here is the figure that jumps off the page. Money earmarked for individual sports’ excellence funds and for the student-athlete experience fund multiplied: $3.9 million last year, $20.3 million this one. Call it 411 percent.

Then there is what you bought. Royalties hit a record $6.56 million, up 27 percent, and $35.6 million worth of licensed Husker merchandise moved off shelves. That took 2.4 million individual items. Work it out and it comes to roughly 6,500 a day, every day, all year.

Fourteenth nationally among Collegiate Licensing Company schools. Fourth in the Big Ten. Sixth in the country in NIL licensing sales.

“Our supporters continue to set the standard for what makes Nebraska special,” Director of Athletics Troy Dannen said in the announcement. “From record-setting giving levels from our Huskers Athletic Fund members, to purchases by our fans in the retail space, and ranking among the nation’s leaders in attendance, there is not a more passionate fan base in the country.”

The turnstiles agreed. Seven sports — football, both basketball programs, volleyball, baseball, softball and soccer — drew 1,344,465 through the gates. Sixth nationally, first in the Big Ten, and about 40,000 better than a year ago.

Then look at the women’s teams on their own. Basketball, volleyball, softball and soccer pulled 328,169 between them. Only South Carolina drew more, anywhere in the country.

Nebraska also placed 17th in the Learfield Directors’ Cup, matching its best finish since 2001.

Husker Nation, college athletics keeps score of a lot of things. This is the one nobody else can go out and buy.

A Point Against the Eighth-Best Team in America

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Photo courtesy Nebraska Athletics

Husker fans, the eighth-ranked team in the country walked into Hibner Stadium on Thursday night. They walked back out with a single point — and so did Nebraska.

The Huskers and Notre Dame finished level at 1-1. For thirty-nine minutes of it, Nebraska was the team in front.

Nathalie Lewis put them there in the 33rd. That is already her second of the young season, and this one came against a back line ranked inside the top ten nationally.

The Irish needed until the 72nd to find a reply, when Ellie Hodsden pulled them level. Nothing separated the two sides after that.

Now the number that decided it. Avery Gillahan made five saves in the Nebraska goal. At the other end, Jackie Holloman was called into action three times. Put those side by side and you can see which way the night ran — and who kept a point on the board for the Big Red.

Lewis was twice on target herself. Ella Rudney and Jo Sees each got one away on frame.

Here is where it leaves things: Nebraska sits at 1-0-2 and has not lost a match yet. Notre Dame is 0-0-3 — three times out, three times level, a top-ten ranking that so far has produced no wins at all.

No rest coming, either. No. 18 Alabama is next at Hibner, Sunday, Aug. 23, noon CT on B1G+. Two ranked opponents inside four days, both of them in Lincoln.

Husker fans, this team just stood in against the eighth-best side in the country and never blinked. Go see what they do with the second one.

Triple Crown at 22: Former Husker Jillian Martin Makes History

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Husker Nation, one of your own just did something nobody in professional women’s bowling has ever done this young.

Jillian Martin won the PWBA Tour Championship on Tuesday night in Parma Heights, Ohio, beating Germany’s Birgit Noreiks 247-221 at Yorktown Lanes — and became the youngest bowler ever to win three majors on the Professional Women’s Bowling Association Tour.

She is 22 years and 24 days old.

That title also completed the Triple Crown: the USBC Queens, the U.S. Women’s Open and the PWBA Tour Championship. Martin is the first bowler to sweep all three since the PWBA Tour relaunched — and the youngest ever to do it. The names she passed on the way there? PWBA Hall of Famers Wendy Macpherson (22 years, nine months, 20 days) and Aleta Sill (22 years, eight months, two days).

Before any of that, she was a Husker — a four-time All-American at Nebraska and the 2025 NTCA Bowler of the Year.

“It’s shocking,” Martin told PWBA.com after becoming a five-time champion with three major titles at 22. “I would not necessarily expect to be here. Have I imagined being here? Did I know it could happen? 100%. But I never truly, truly was like, ‘Wow, this is going to happen, and it’s going to happen now.’”

Here’s the number that says the most about how she is rolling right now: Tuesday was her 10th consecutive stepladder match win, a streak stretching back to her 2024 USBC Queens run. She entered the finals as the top seed, and she was the only bowler to win twice all season on the 2026 PWBA National Tour.

Five career titles. Three majors. A Triple Crown. At 22.

Husker Nation, remember where she learned it.

New Titles, Bigger Plans: Nebraska Athletics Promotes Six

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Big Red Nation, the front office just got a refresh — and it tells you exactly where Nebraska Athletics is putting its energy.

Ahead of the 2026-27 athletic year, Nebraska announced six promotions Wednesday across the department, touching everything from Memorial Stadium’s future to the gear hanging in your closet.

Kortne Gosha steps up to Deputy AD—Chief Commercial Officer, and here’s the headline: he’ll oversee all aspects of the Big Red Rebuild, the project set to reshape Memorial Stadium for decades to come. Gosha has led Nebraska’s capital planning and construction since arriving in Lincoln in 2024, and now he adds commercial innovation, governmental relations and day-to-day support of the football program to his plate.

Taking over Gosha’s old day-to-day duties is Larry Maples, now Senior Associate AD—Capital Planning & Facilities. Maples also came aboard in 2024 and just wrapped the nearly completed construction at the Bob Devaney Sports Center and John Cook Arena. Between the two of them, the Rebuild is in experienced hands.

Brandon Meier becomes Deputy AD—External Affairs, continuing to run marketing and fan experience, HuskerVision, community and government relations and the spirit squads — plus Nebraska’s multimedia rights partnership with PlayFly and the liaison roles with both Big Ten Network and adidas. He’s been in Lincoln since 2018.

Now here’s a number worth bragging about. Lonna Henrichs, promoted to Senior Associate AD—Licensing & Business Development, has run Nebraska’s licensing efforts for more than a decade. This past year? A record $6.56 million in licensing royalties and more than $35 million in retail sales. Husker Nation, that one’s on you. You bought the gear.

Blake Chramosta moves into a new role as assistant director for cap management, teaming with Associate AD for Cap Management Jonathan Bateman to lead Nebraska’s student-athlete compensation and revenue sharing efforts. Chramosta has been in the athletic business office since 2018, most recently as Director of Business Administration — so the Huskers are staffing up the money side with someone who already knows the books.

Rounding things out, Sam Rice takes over as Assistant AD—Creative and Emerging Media and will lead Nebraska’s digital strategy across every social platform. Rice ran social media for Husker men’s basketball the past three years and directed Watch and Dream, the two-hour film chronicling the record-setting 2025-26 campaign.

“As the landscape of college athletics and our priorities at Nebraska constantly evolve, we make staff adjustments to best meet our goals and serve all our constituents,” Director of Athletics Troy Dannen said in the announcement. “We are pleased to elevate several staff members to help ensure we continue to operate effectively and efficiently.”

New stadium plans, record merchandise sales and a front office built for the revenue-sharing era. Husker Nation, the pieces are moving.

Two of the Best: Sippel and Miller Named National Finalists

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Husker fans, the coaching staff behind that 52-win season is getting its due.

Nebraska softball’s Lori Sippel and Diane Miller were both named top-25 finalists for D1 Softball’s 2026 Assistant Coach of the Year, the organization announced Wednesday.

Start with the season they built. The Huskers went 52-8 and 23-1 in Big Ten play — the 52 wins tied a program record, the 23 conference wins were the most in school history and tied a Big Ten record outright. Somewhere in the middle of it came a 27-game win streak that stretched across two months.

Sippel, who retired this offseason, coached a pitching staff that finished second nationally in strikeouts and in strikeout-to-walk ratio, fourth in ERA, fifth in WHIP, seventh in hits allowed per seven innings and ninth in shutouts. Six different team or individual marks in the Husker record book now belong to that group.

She also sent two more names into the All-America ranks: Jordy Frahm picked up her fourth First-Team honor and was named NFCA and USA Softball Player of the Year, while Alexis Jensen landed on the third team.

Miller, promoted to associate head coach, ran an offense that finished top three in program history in ten separate categories — batting average (.325), hits (539), runs (407), doubles (99), home runs (97), extra-base hits (210), RBIs (383), slugging (.577), total bases (957) and on-base percentage (.405).

Read that list again. Ten categories. Top three all-time. In one season.

The national Assistant Coach of the Year, along with the Pitching Coach of the Year presented by PitchCom, will be announced August 31.

Two finalists off one staff isn’t an accident. Husker Nation, that’s what a record-breaking season looks like from the dugout.

Nebraska’s Defensive Dominance Shines in West Lafayette

Sat, 28 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Nebraska’s defense stole the show in their 28-10 victory over Purdue at Ross-Ade Stadium, giving the Huskers the lead in the series at 7-6. While the final score might make it seem like the Huskers were in cruise control, the Blackshirts delivered a standout performance, holding Purdue to just 10 points, with the Boilermakers scoring their only touchdown in the last 90 seconds. With their defense firmly leading the charge, Nebraska extended their streak of holding opponents to 10 points or less in four of their five games this season.

One of the game’s highlights came from defensive lineman James Williams, who recorded a career-high two sacks. Williams’ performance set the tone for a relentless Nebraska pass rush that accumulated five sacks on the day, marking their second-highest total of the season. Williams’ 2.0 sacks not only helped stifle Purdue’s offense but also made him the most disruptive Husker lineman of 2024, edging out some of last year’s strong performances.

The Blackshirts were more than just a pass-rushing nightmare for Purdue. They held the Boilermakers to a mere 50 rushing yards, marking the third time Nebraska has kept an opponent to under 275 total yards this season. With a defense this dominant, it’s no wonder Nebraska is one of only seven teams in the nation that has yet to allow a rushing touchdown in 2024 .

Nebraska’s offense was efficient as well, with Dylan Raiola throwing for 257 yards and a touchdown, connecting with eight different receivers. But it was the defense’s contribution to the scoreboard that punctuated the win. John Bullock intercepted a Purdue pass and returned it 29 yards for a touchdown, Nebraska’s second pick-six of the season. This is the first time since 2017 that the Huskers have had multiple interception returns for touchdowns in a single season.

As Nebraska improves to 4-1, it’s clear that their defense, led by players like James Williams and John Bullock, is laying the foundation for a potentially special season. While the offense is finding its rhythm, the Blackshirts have proven to be the difference-makers, allowing just three points in the second quarter all season and continuing to win battles in the trenches with consistent pressure and turnovers

Nebraska vs. Purdue: Prediction for Cornhuskers' Big Ten Road Opener

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Ah, the sweet smell of Big Ten football in the air. Nebraska heads to West Lafayette this weekend to take on Purdue in what’s shaping up to be an intriguing matchup of strengths and weaknesses. It’s Nebraska’s first road game of the season, and while traveling hasn’t always been kind to the Huskers, this is Matt Rhule’s squad—new coach, new team, new mentality, right? Well, we’ll see. Here’s what we know.

Nebraska: Can the Raiola Show Continue?

Nebraska walks into Ross-Ade Stadium at 3-1, fresh off a tough overtime loss to Illinois. Sure, that stung, but let’s focus on the positives. Dylan Raiola has been throwing dimes, racking up nearly 300 yards and three touchdowns in that game. And don’t forget about Isaiah Neyor, who’s been catching anything thrown within his zip code—four touchdowns in four games is a nice stat to flaunt. The offense? Explosive. They’ve shown they can move the ball both through the air and on the ground, which should keep Purdue’s defense guessing.

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Nebraska’s defense, which had been so solid—allowing 24 or fewer points in 10 straight games—finally cracked against Illinois. They need to tighten things up again if they’re going to make a serious run in the Big Ten. The good news? Purdue’s offense isn’t exactly setting the world on fire. More on that in a minute.

Purdue: Ground Game or Grounded?

Purdue, oh Purdue. With a 1-2 record and two straight losses, including a 38-21 whooping from Oregon State, they’re looking a bit wobbly heading into this one. Sure, they can run the ball—averaging 183 yards on the ground—but that’s been about the only bright spot for them. Their defense? Well, it’s been decent against the pass, giving up just 123 yards per game, but we’ll see how that holds up against Raiola’s cannon of an arm.

The Boilermakers’ biggest weakness right now is that they’ve been getting pushed around by better teams. They’ve shown flashes of potential but can’t seem to string together a complete game. If Nebraska can make them one-dimensional, this could get ugly for Purdue fans real fast.

Key Matchups: Strength vs. Strength

Nebraska’s Passing Attack vs. Purdue’s Pass Defense: Purdue’s pass defense might be their best asset right now, but they haven’t faced an air attack like Nebraska’s yet. Raiola and his receivers are going to test those defensive backs early and often. If Neyor and Jahmal Banks get loose, look out.
Purdue’s Rushing Attack vs. Nebraska’s Run Defense: Purdue’s been solid on the ground, but Nebraska’s defense has been a brick wall for most of the season. If the Blackshirts can shut down Purdue’s run game, the Boilermakers are going to be in for a long afternoon.
Nebraska’s First Road Test: This will be Nebraska’s first time playing outside of Memorial Stadium this season, which is always a bit of an X-factor. Will the offense keep rolling, or will we see some growing pains away from home? Time to find out.

Prediction: Huskers Roll On

This one feels like it’s Nebraska’s to lose. They’ve got more talent on both sides of the ball and seem to have a better handle on their identity. Purdue will hang around early, but Nebraska’s balance on offense and stout defense should be enough to pull away as the game wears on. Look for the Huskers to secure their first Big Ten win of the season.

Final Score Prediction: Nebraska 35, Purdue 17.

A Husker Game to Remember: Watching from North Carolina with My Brother

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT

There’s nothing quite like watching a Nebraska football game, especially when you finally get to do it with your brother after nearly two years. Even though we haven’t been apart, life has been hectic, and we just hadn’t found the time to sit down together for a game until the Huskers took on Northern Iowa on September 14, 2024. And what a game it was!

Nebraska’s 35-3 victory over UNI was the kind of performance Husker fans dream of. The defense was absolutely dominant, holding UNI to just 301 total yards and keeping them out of the end zone. The Huskers haven’t let a team score more than 24 points in 10 straight games, something we haven’t seen since the Bo Pelini era in 2009. I couldn’t help but marvel at the Blackshirts’ resurgence under Coach Matt Rhule. This season alone, Nebraska’s defense has allowed just 20 points over the first three games, the best start since 2005.

On the offensive side, freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola continues to prove why he’s the future of this program. He completed 17 of 23 passes for 247 yards and two touchdowns, setting a career-best in yards while tying his career high in touchdowns. This marked the third straight game Raiola completed over 70% of his passes, something no Husker quarterback has done since 1980. As Husker fans, we know the quarterback position has had its ups and downs in recent years, but Raiola looks like the real deal.

My brother and I were particularly excited to see the connection between Raiola and freshman receiver Carter Nelson, who scored his first career touchdown on a 24-yard pass during the game’s opening drive. It’s not often you see two freshmen linking up like that, and it reminded us of other great Husker duos from the past. Meanwhile, sophomore receiver Jaylen Lloyd came through with a 59-yard reception that set up another touchdown, continuing his trend of big plays—five of his eight career receptions have been for at least 36 yards.

Sitting there with him, we couldn’t help but reflect on the Huskers’ 3-0 start—the first time since 2016 that Nebraska has finished non-conference play undefeated. The team’s improvement is clear, and the win over UNI marked the third straight game that Nebraska won by at least 18 points, something that hasn’t happened since 2014.

By the end of the night, it wasn’t just about the win or the stats (though those were fun to talk about). It was about sharing the experience with my brother, finally having the chance to yell at the TV together and bask in a dominant Nebraska performance. Here’s hoping the Huskers keep rolling—and that we don’t wait another two years to catch a game together.

Four Huskers Named to AVCA Watch List: Nebraska's Volleyball Dominance Continues

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Nebraska’s volleyball program continues to shine as four Huskers were named to the prestigious American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) Watch List for the 2024 Division I Player of the Year Award. Senior Merritt Beason, sophomores Harper Murray and Bergen Reilly, and senior Lexi Rodriguez have earned their spots among the nation’s best. The list includes 36 athletes from 21 schools, with Nebraska leading the pack with four nominations.

Let’s take a deeper dive into what makes these athletes stand out and why Nebraska is the powerhouse it is.

Merritt Beason: Senior Leader and Offensive Dynamo

Merritt Beason transferred to Nebraska from Florida in 2023 and immediately made her mark, earning AVCA first-team All-America honors. With her 3.76 kills per set in 2023, she became a vital offensive force for the Huskers, earning Big Ten Player of the Week honors four times. Beason’s power was on full display during the 2023 NCAA Lincoln Regional, where she posted 19 kills and 11 digs in a stunning victory over Arkansas. This year, though her average is down slightly at 2.82 kills per set, she’s recently surged to 3.36 kills per set with a .353 hitting percentage over the last four matches. Clearly, Beason is heating up at just the right time for a title run.

Harper Murray: The Sophomore Sensation

If there were any doubts about Harper Murray’s abilities after her breakout freshman year, she’s silencing them quickly. After earning Big Ten Freshman of the Year honors in 2023 with 3.23 kills per set, she has continued to lead the Huskers in her sophomore season, averaging 3.18 kills per set. Known for her six-rotation prowess, Murray is not just an offensive threat but also solid defensively, averaging 2.30 digs per set this season. Her nine service aces show her versatility and potential to take over games, which she will likely continue to do as the season progresses.

Bergen Reilly: The Setter with Vision

Bergen Reilly, the Big Ten Setter of the Year in 2023, has already proven herself to be a difference-maker. The fact that she was the first freshman to win the award speaks volumes about her ability to control the tempo of a match. Reilly’s 10.51 assists per set last season helped the Huskers’ offense flourish, and she’s been even better this season, averaging 11.26 assists per set, ranking her sixth nationally. As the floor general, Reilly’s playmaking will be crucial as Nebraska chases a national championship.

Lexi Rodriguez: Defensive Wall

Lexi Rodriguez’s reputation as one of the best liberos in Nebraska history is already secure. As a three-time All-American, Rodriguez is on the verge of joining an elite club of four-time All-Americans, a feat only achieved by two other Huskers. With 1,547 career digs, she’s closing in on the school record held by Justine Wong-Orantes. Rodriguez’s defensive leadership has helped Nebraska become one of the top defensive teams in the nation, and her ability to read opposing offenses makes her an irreplaceable part of the Huskers’ success.

Looking Ahead

With these four players leading the way, Nebraska looks primed for a deep postseason run. The AVCA Watch List is just the beginning—come December, the Huskers hope to see one of their own crowned as the Player of the Year. Either way, with a roster this talented, Nebraska volleyball fans have much to be excited about as they watch these stars continue to shine.

Friday Night Lights: Nebraska’s 400th Consecutive Sellout at Memorial Stadium

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT

It’s Friday in Lincoln, and Memorial Stadium is ready to make history. Tonight’s prime-time game marks a milestone—the 400th consecutive sellout at our storied venue. The tradition of packing the stands has been ongoing since 1962, and on this special night, the energy should be insane!

Nebraska prepares to face Illinois in a Big Ten clash that promises to electrify the night. The weather may cool down as fall settles in, but the Huskers are set to turn up the heat. With the buzz of the 400th sellout in the air, you can feel that this game is more than just another matchup—it’s a celebration of dedication, both on the field and in the stands.

The 2024 season brings heightened expectations, but it looks and feels like this Husker team is finding its stride, nights like this are what Husker football is all about. The crowd will roar, the team will fight, and Memorial Stadium will add another chapter to its legendary history.

Make no mistake, Lincoln comes alive on game day. With 85,000-plus fans wearing red, it’s more than a football game; it’s a spectacle, a community event, and a tribute to Husker pride

Husker Volleyball Sweeps #4 Louisville

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT

In what can only be described as a showcase of dominance, the No. 5 Nebraska volleyball team swept No. 4 Louisville in front of 14,126 fans at the KFC Yum! Center on Sunday. With this emphatic 25-16, 25-17, 25-20 victory, Nebraska improved to 10-1 on the season, taking down their second top-five opponent of the week. Louisville, which came into the match with an 8-1 record, now sits at 8-2. But they had no answers for the Big Red juggernaut that stormed through the match like it was a Sunday stroll through Memorial Stadium.

Nebraska’s serves were lethal, tallying seven aces to Louisville’s zero—a stat that epitomizes how one-sided the contest was. Defensively, the Huskers were equally commanding, posting nine blocks and holding Louisville to a paltry .133 hitting percentage. The Huskers, meanwhile, were sizzling on offense, hitting .305. Harper Murray led the way with 11 kills, supported by Merritt Beason’s nine kills and .364 hitting. Beason also added four blocks, while Andi Jackson’s .545 hitting percentage with four blocks was another bright spot for the Cornhuskers.

Set 1 saw Louisville take a 5-3 lead before Nebraska took control, sparked by a 7-0 run led by Lindsay Krause’s serving. That run included a block party and a couple of aces, which left Louisville calling back-to-back timeouts, clearly rattled. By the time the dust settled, Nebraska had cruised to a 25-16 win.

Set 2 was more of the same with Krause and Lexi Rodriguez stepping up at the service line. Krause fired off three straight aces, and Rodriguez’s six-point service run propelled the Huskers to a 12-3 lead. The Cardinals attempted to fight back, but Nebraska was relentless, eventually securing a 25-17 set victory.

In Set 3, Louisville mounted some resistance, even taking a 10-7 lead at one point. But Nebraska calmly responded, with Beason and Murray leading the attack. After a few Louisville errors and a commanding block from Jackson and Bergen Reilly, the Huskers pulled away, finishing the set 25-20 to complete the sweep.

This was Nebraska’s first sweep of a top-five team on the road since their victory over Minnesota in 2021, and it marked a statement win as they prepare to enter Big Ten play. With performances like these, Husker fans have every reason to believe this could be a special season.

Husker Fans are Everywhere, Even in Alaska

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT

During a recent trip to Alaska, I saw firsthand that Husker Nation knows no boundaries. From Denali to Ketchikan, the sea of red was alive and well. It was amazing to see so many fellow Nebraska fans at the farthest reaches of the country, swapping stories of the team’s history and future while marveling at glaciers and wildlife. It’s a testament to the loyalty of Husker fans that, no matter where you go, there’s always a friendly face sporting the iconic “N.”

My adventures even continued during a layover in Denver’s airport, where I caught the Huskers’ game against Colorado. The spirit in the air was electrifying—though not all of it positive. Among the travelers, I witnessed an approximately 8-year-old child cursing the Huskers as his parents laughed. Sadly, it was a reminder of how rivalries can sometimes bring out the worst. It’s one thing to enjoy the competition, but watching kids mirror such negativity isn’t what sports are all about.

The Colorado Game: Huskers Set the Tone

That scene didn’t take away from what the Huskers accomplished on the field. Nebraska’s 28-10 win over Colorado was a defining moment early in the season. Nebraska’s defense was outstanding, holding Colorado to just 16 rushing yards, which marked their fewest allowed since 2020. The Huskers were all over the Buffs’ offensive line, sacking their quarterback six times, with four sacks coming in the first half alone. Tommi Hill’s pick-six was the exclamation point, and Dante Dowdell’s 74 rushing yards and two touchdowns proved that the Huskers are capable of wearing teams down both offensively and defensively.

The victory also gave Nebraska its 50th win over Colorado in their historic rivalry, and for Coach Matt Rhule, it was a major boost in just his second season at the helm. After years of uncertainty, it seems that Rhule is bringing the Blackshirts’ defensive toughness back to Lincoln in full force.

Looking Ahead: Huskers vs. Northern Iowa

The Huskers now turn their attention to Northern Iowa, a program coming off a gritty 17-10 win over St. Thomas (Minn.). This will be the first-ever meeting between the two teams, but don’t let UNI’s FCS label fool you—they’re ranked No. 21 in the FCS coaches poll and average nearly 300 rushing yards per game.

Nebraska’s defense, which has been nothing short of suffocating, will look to continue its dominance, as the Blackshirts have allowed a mere 36 rushing yards per game this season. Controlling the line of scrimmage will be key, but equally important is Nebraska’s balanced offensive attack, averaging 186 rushing yards and 234.5 passing yards per game. With the Huskers playing their second of three straight night games at Memorial Stadium, expect the crowd to be loud as Nebraska tries to cap its non-conference schedule at 3-0.

Positive Poll Position but Caution Ahead

Nebraska’s strong start has also vaulted them into the national rankings for the first time since 2019. They currently sit at No. 23 in the AP poll and No. 24 in the USA Today Coaches Poll. While it’s thrilling for fans to see the Huskers return to national prominence, it’s important to keep things in perspective—it’s still early, and the real tests will come during Big Ten play. The game against Northern Iowa offers a great opportunity to fine-tune before the grind of the conference schedule begins, but for now, Husker fans have every reason to be excited about this team’s potential.

The Evolution of The Blackshirts: From Improvement to Dominance?

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Photo by Denny Paulsen

The Evolution of Nebraska’s Defense: From Improvement to Dominance?

As Nebraska football gears up for its season opener against UTEP, the buzz around Lincoln isn’t just about the new faces on offense. The defense, led by a returning core that anchored one of the most improved units in the nation last season, is poised to take another step forward in 2024. After ranking 11th nationally in total defense and 8th against the run last year, the Blackshirts are ready to elevate their game from mere improvement to outright dominance.

A Look Back at 2023: Laying the Foundation

Nebraska’s 2023 season was a tale of defensive resurgence. The Huskers allowed their fewest points per game (18.3) since 2010 and their fewest yards per game (303.5) since 2009. It was a season marked by significant strides, with Nebraska ranking in the top 15 nationally in several key defensive categories, including rushing defense and scoring defense. The defense was particularly stingy on the ground, allowing just 92.9 rushing yards per game, good for 8th best in the country.

Much of this success can be attributed to the development of a cohesive unit that consistently executed its game plan. The defensive line, led by standout nose tackle Nash Hutmacher and veteran defensive end Ty Robinson, wreaked havoc in the trenches. Hutmacher, known for his relentless motor, recorded eight tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks, while Robinson added six breakups and led the team with 11 quarterback hurries. These two, along with a deep rotation, set the tone for the entire defense.

2024: The Quest for Dominance

As the Huskers enter the 2024 season, the question on every fan’s mind is simple: Can the Blackshirts build on last year’s progress and become one of the elite defenses in college football? With six players who started at least eight games returning, there’s every reason to believe they can.

The return of Jimari Butler at defensive end adds another layer of complexity for opposing offenses. Butler led the Huskers with 8.5 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks last season, showcasing his ability to disrupt plays behind the line of scrimmage. Pairing Butler with Hutmacher and Robinson gives Nebraska a formidable front that can control the line of scrimmage and collapse the pocket consistently.

But the strength of this defense isn’t limited to the front line. Linebacker John Bullock, a sixth-year senior, anchors the middle of the field with his leadership and playmaking ability. Bullock, who ranked fourth on the team with 50 tackles last season, is joined by a versatile group that includes MJ Sherman, who brings experience and a knack for making timely plays from the JACK position.

In the secondary, Isaac Gifford leads a unit that is as experienced as it is talented. Gifford, who led the team with 86 tackles and added eight pass breakups last season, is joined by a healthy Marques Buford Jr. and DeShon Singleton, both of whom are expected to be key contributors after dealing with injuries in 2023. With Malcolm Hartzog Jr. and Tommi Hill providing versatility and depth, Nebraska’s secondary has the potential to be a strength, capable of locking down receivers and creating turnovers.

Setting the Tone Against UTEP

The season opener against UTEP offers the perfect opportunity for Nebraska’s defense to make a statement. UTEP, while competitive, is replacing several key contributors on offense, including their top three rushers and top four receivers from last season. This could spell trouble for the Miners, who will face a Nebraska defense hungry to prove that last year’s improvements were just the beginning.

Expect the Blackshirts to come out aggressive, looking to control the line of scrimmage and force UTEP into uncomfortable situations. If the Huskers can bottle up the run early and pressure the quarterback, it could be a long day for the Miners.

As the 2024 season unfolds, the potential for Nebraska’s defense to be the backbone of the team is clear. With a mix of returning experience and rising stars, the Blackshirts are not just aiming to replicate last year’s success—they’re aiming to dominate. And if the season opener is any indication, this defense is ready to do just that.

Youth gone wild in Husker Football - A Data-Driven Analysis

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 00:00:00 GMT

I found myself asking a bigger question of what does the future Husker team and potential look like. I took the entire roster and removed any players that had little to no impact or playing time. Then sorted them by class and position. The data was interesting for sure. The Huskers’ 2023 season has been nothing short of a revelation to me. When looking at the team’s offense, defense, and players by classes, a fascinating trend emerges: the significant impact of a young, dynamic class on the team’s performance.

Class Composition: The Youthful Core: Freshmen and juniors form the bulk of the team, with 14 freshmen and 20 juniors, overshadowing the 9 seniors. This distribution underlines a strategic emphasis on developing young talent, ensuring a robust pipeline for future seasons.

**Offensive Might: A Blend of Experience and Youth:**In analyzing the Offense the data reveals a balanced mix of experience and youth. Notably, juniors (JR) and seniors (SR) occupy crucial positions such as Offensive Line (OL), Running Back (RB), and Wide Receiver (WR), indicating a reliance on seasoned players for key offensive roles. However, the presence of a young quarterback (QB) in the junior category signals a blend of fresh talent and maturity in a pivotal position. But we are shoring these positions up even with more talent and youth. ie. Kaelin, Raiola, Dowdell and Nayor.

**Defensive Depth: The Freshmen Rise:**The Defensive data paints an intriguing picture of the team’s defensive structure. Freshmen (FR) and juniors dominate the line-up, especially in the Defensive Line (DL) and Defensive Back (DB) positions. This youth movement suggests a strategy focusing on agility, speed, and long-term growth, with freshmen already taking on significant roles.

Impact of a Young Class: The Huskers’ focus on a young class is like planting seeds for a fruitful future. This clever strategy creates an environment where young players can thrive, gaining valuable experience from the get-go and paving the way for a sustained period of performance. And with a sprinkle of seasoned players providing mentorship, it’s a great blend of youthful energy and seasoned wisdom.

The Huskers’ 2023 season is a testament to the power of youth and its potential to reshape the team’s future. With a core group of talented young players, the future looks promising. This blend of youth and experience is not just a strategy but a bold statement of intent, signaling the dawn of a new era in Huskers football.

Nebraska 10 - 2?? REALLY?? Yup I think so..

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Photo by Denny Paulsen

Nebraska Football 2024 Predictions 10-2

As the 2024 college football season approaches, anticipation and excitement build for us here in Nebraskaland. After an offseason filled with strategic recruiting, staff adjustments and facility changes, the Huskers are set to take on a favorable schedule. Here’s is my win loss prediction of how Nebraska’s season might unfold, highlighting the first 3 matchups and outcomes that could define their year. Take note that in the first 3 games I have Nebraska scoring a combined total 119 points. I think they are taking the End Zone and making it home turf. They are tired of being 3 or 7 points away from greatness, this year they do something about it.

Aug 31 - vs. UTEP: Prediction: Nebraska wins 42-14. The Cornhuskers start the season strong with a dominant performance against UTEP, showcasing their superior offense and a maybe the best defensive line in some time. UTEP struggles to keep up with Nebraska’s pace and depth.
Sep 7 - vs. Colorado: Prediction: Nebraska wins 35-24. In a closely contested game, the Cornhuskers stretch out the lead against Colorado with a late fourth-quarter touchdown, benefiting from home-field advantage and a more balanced offensive attack. I am expecting there to be a lot of Husker Ground yardage this game. RUN THE DAMN BALL actually happens!
Sep 14 - vs. Northern Iowa: Prediction: Nebraska wins 42-10. The Huskers overpower Northern Iowa with a potent running game and a strong defensive showing, reflecting their depth and talent across the roster.
Sep 21 - vs. Illinois: Prediction: Nebraska wins
Sep 28 - @ Purdue: Prediction: Nebraska wins
Oct 5 - vs. Rutgers: Prediction: Nebraska wins
Oct 19 - @ Indiana: Prediction: Nebraska wins
Oct 26 - @ Ohio State: Prediction: Ohio State wins
Nov 2 - vs. UCLA: Prediction: Nebraska wins
Nov 16 - @ USC: Prediction: Nebraska wins
Nov 23 - vs. Wisconsin: Prediction: Wisconsin wins I am going to reserve the right to change this as I see it as a toss up and coming down to want to and preparation.
Nov 29 - @ Iowa: Prediction: Nebraska wins

Michael Terry and David Sanders Jr.: Spend the Money

Sat, 27 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Terry and David Sanders Jr.: Why Nebraska Should go for broke and Pay for Both

Husker fans are buzzing with excitement over the potential addition of two standout recruits from the 2025 class: Michael Terry and David Sanders Jr. Both athletes bring unique and essential skills to the table, making them invaluable to the Huskers’ future success. Instead of choosing between these two stars, Nebraska should aim to secure both.

Michael Terry: The Versatile Phenom

Michael Terry, a five-star athlete from Alamo Heights in San Antonio, Texas, is ranked as the No. 1 athlete in the 2025 recruiting class. Known for his versatility, Terry excels at multiple positions, including running back, wide receiver, and defensive back. His high school accolades are impressive, earning District 13-5A MVP honors as a junior. This versatility makes Terry a valuable asset to any team, offering flexibility and depth.

Pros:

Versatility: Capable of playing multiple positions, providing strategic flexibility.
Speed and Agility: His quickness and ability to change direction make him a threat on both offense and defense.
High School Performance: MVP honors highlight his impact and leadership on the field.

Terry’s ability to adapt and excel in various roles makes him a game-changer. His presence would allow Nebraska to experiment with different formations and strategies, keeping opponents on their toes.

David Sanders Jr.: The Dominant Tackle

David Sanders Jr., another five-star recruit, is the top offensive tackles in the 2025 class. Known for his strength and technique, Sanders is a powerhouse on the offensive line. His visits to Nebraska and Tennessee have drawn significant attention, and his commitment could solidify the Huskers’ offensive line for years to come.

Pros:

Position: As an offensive tackle, Sanders fills a critical need for the Huskers.
Strength and Technique: His ability to dominate at the line of scrimmage can help protect the quarterback and open up running lanes.
Recruitment Focus: His visits to Nebraska indicate a strong interest in the program.

Sanders’ presence would provide immediate improvement to Nebraska’s offensive line, ensuring better protection for the quarterback(most likely Raiola) and more opportunities for the running game. His skill set is essential for building a formidable offense.

The Desire to get Both

Securing both Michael Terry and David Sanders Jr. would be a monumental achievement for Nebraska. Here’s why the Huskers should aim for both recruits:

1. Comprehensive Talent Acquisition: By landing both Terry and Sanders, Nebraska would be addressing multiple needs. Terry’s versatility allows him to fill various roles, while Sanders’ strength fortifies the offensive line.

2. Long-Term Stability: Both players bring high-level talent that can lead to immediate and sustained success. Terry’s adaptability and Sanders’ reliability create a balanced roster capable of competing at a high level for years.

3. Recruiting Momentum: Successfully recruiting two top-tier athletes would send a strong message to future recruits about Nebraska’s commitment to building a championship-caliber team. It would enhance the program’s reputation and attract more elite talent.

4. Strategic Depth: With Terry’s ability to play different positions and Sanders’ specific skill set as a tackle, Nebraska would have the strategic depth to handle injuries and tactical adjustments throughout the season.

Basically….

Nebraska should not view the recruitment of Michael Terry and David Sanders Jr. as an either/or situation. Both athletes bring unique and indispensable skills that can elevate the Huskers to new heights. By securing both recruits, Nebraska would be making a significant investment in the future success and stability of our program. It’s time for Husker fans should and seem to be rallying behind the effort to bring both of these exceptional talents to Memorial Stadium.

Big Ten Media Days: Nebraska's Rollercoaster Ride Over 14 Years

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Photo by Denny Paulsen

Big Ten Media Days: Nebraska’s Rollercoaster Ride Over 14 Years.

Every summer, fans and pundits eagerly await the Big Ten Media Days, where predictions are made, hopes are inflated, and disappointment looms on the horizon for some. For Nebraska, the journey since joining the Big Ten in 2011 has been a tale of optimism, media frenzy, and often unmet expectations.

Predictions vs. Reality: A Consistent Disconnect

The annual predictions at Big Ten Media Days often place Nebraska in a hopeful position within the conference standings. However, the reality has frequently fallen short. Analyzing data from the past 14 years reveals a pattern:

2011-2014: Nebraska was consistently predicted to finish in the top three of the Legends Division. The Huskers met these expectations in 2012 and 2013, finishing second and first, respectively. However, other seasons saw them underperform.
2015-2018: The move to the West Division brought a mix of optimism and realism. Despite predictions placing them near the top, Nebraska struggled, with only one notable second-place finish in 2016.
2019-2023: Hopes remained high, but the Huskers often finished in the middle to lower tier of the standings, a far cry from preseason predictions.

Over these 14 years, predictions by writers at Big Ten Media Days have been accurate only about 35% of the time for Nebraska. The Huskers have often been overestimated, with the team rarely living up to the preseason hype.

The Nebraska Media Phenomenon

So why does Nebraska always seem to have a larger media following than many traditional Big Ten schools? The answer lies in the unique fabric of Nebraska’s football culture.

Passionate Fan Base: Nebraska’s fan base is known for its unparalleled loyalty. Memorial Stadium’s sellout streak, which began in 1962, is a testament to this unwavering support. The fans’ passion ensures that there is always a significant media presence around the team.
Statewide Focal Point: Unlike states with multiple major sports teams, Nebraska’s focus is almost singularly on the Cornhuskers. This concentrated attention translates to a larger, more engaged audience for media coverage.
Historical Success: The legacy of Nebraska football, with its five national championships and storied history, naturally attracts media attention. Even in down years, the program’s rich history keeps it relevant.
Media Savvy Program: Nebraska has embraced modern media trends, maintaining a strong presence on social media platforms and engaging with fans through various digital channels. This modern approach keeps the Huskers in the spotlight.

A Year of Optimism: Why 2024 Could Buck the Trend

This year, however, the narrative might change. The media predictions for Nebraska in 2024 are more conservative, reflecting cautious optimism or even skepticism. But there are several reasons why the Huskers could outperform these expectations:

Coaching Stability: With a solid coaching staff and more stability in the program, the team has had time to develop a cohesive strategy and build stronger team dynamics.
Emerging Talent: The roster boasts a mix of experienced players and promising newcomers ready to make an impact. Key positions have seen significant improvements, suggesting a more competitive team on the field.
Strengthened Defense: Defense has been a focus in the off-season, with strategic recruitments and rigorous training aimed at tightening up previous vulnerabilities.
Motivated Squad: After years of underperformance, the current squad is motivated to change the narrative and prove doubters wrong. This hunger for success could drive them to exceed expectations.

So Basically…..

Big Ten Media Days have been a rollercoaster for Nebraska, with predictions often exceeding the team’s actual performance. Yet, this year feels different. With a stable coaching staff, emerging talent, and a motivated squad, the Huskers are poised to defy the conservative predictions and deliver a season that surprises and delights their passionate fan base. Despite the past disappointments, the future looks bright for Nebraska football.

Cornhusker State Dominance: A Look at Nebraska Football's 2024 Roster

Sun, 19 May 2024 00:00:00 GMT

As the 2024 season gears up, Nebraska Cornhuskers football and theblackshirts.com fans have plenty to be excited about, not least because of the impressive geographical diversity and homegrown talent that make up the roster. With 149 players hailing from various states, this year’s team promises a blend of local pride and national reach. Let’s dive into the numbers and see what makes this lineup truly unique.

Homegrown Heroes

Unsurprisingly, Nebraska leads the charge with a whopping 52 players, making up nearly 35% of the entire roster. This includes 17 freshmen, 12 juniors, 13 redshirt freshmen, and 7 seniors. The state’s dominance is a testament to the strength of local high school football programs and the Cornhuskers’ ability to recruit top talent right from their backyard. These local heroes bring a deep understanding of Nebraska’s football culture and a passion for representing their home state on the national stage.

Nationwide Talent

While Nebraska provides the backbone of the team, the Cornhuskers also boast a diverse array of players from across the country. Florida, with its year-round football climate, contributes 9 players, the second-highest state representation. Texas and California follow closely with 15 and 5 players, respectively, highlighting the Cornhuskers’ ability to attract talent from traditional football powerhouses.

Other notable contributors include states like New Jersey (7 players), Pennsylvania (6 players), and Arizona (4 players). Each of these states brings its unique style and competitive spirit to the team, adding depth and versatility to the roster.

The Freshman Surge

The freshman class is particularly intriguing this year, with 44 new faces ready to make their mark. Nebraska leads again with 17 freshmen, but there’s also a significant influx from states like Florida (5), Colorado (3), and Texas (5). This fresh blood represents the future of Nebraska football, blending promising talent with the seasoned wisdom of upperclassmen.

A Blend of Experience and Youth

The balance of experience and youth is another highlight of the 2024 roster. The distribution across different class years ensures that the team has a healthy mix of veterans who can provide leadership and young players eager to prove themselves. For instance, the senior class, though smaller in number, includes key players from states like Nebraska, Arizona, and California, whose experience will be crucial during high-stakes games.

The 2024 Nebraska Cornhuskers roster is a testament to the program’s recruiting and the widespread appeal of playing for one of college football’s storied teams. With a solid foundation of homegrown talent, the Cornhuskers are well-equipped to tackle the upcoming season. I think we can look forward to a thrilling year.

From Bitterness to Optimism with some inside Intel

Wed, 15 May 2024 00:00:00 GMT

The departure of Trev Alberts from the role of Athletic Director at Nebraska was a pill that was tough to swallow for many. After all, Alberts wasn’t just any administrator; he was one of our own, a heralded former athlete who declared the AD position his “dream job.” The sting of his departure was sharp, underscored by promises unkept and potential unfulfilled. Yet, as the dust settles, my feelings are undergoing a surprising transformation.

Enter Troy Dannen, the new Athletic Director, whose approach has been refreshingly straightforward and unpretentious. Unlike Alberts, Dannen doesn’t appear overwhelmed by the prestige of the role. He seems genuinely enamored with the university, bringing an earnest enthusiasm that’s hard not to admire. His pragmatic approach is a breath of fresh air in the often tumultuous world of college athletics administration.

From what I’ve gathered—though let’s keep this between us—a source intimately close to the situation hinted that Trev Alberts’ tenure wasn’t as rosy as it appeared. Despite his polished exterior and the idealistic image he projected, there were internal disappointments and perhaps agendas not entirely aligned with the university’s best interests. It’s a classic case of all that glitters not being gold. Perhaps in Dannen’s pragmatic leadership, we’re witnessing the arrival of someone who wears the responsibility rather than just the “clothes” of an AD.

As we move forward under Dannen’s stewardship, I find my initial bitterness giving way to cautious optimism. Maybe, just maybe, we’ve dodged a bullet with Alberts’ departure. In Dannen, Nebraska might have found not just a competent administrator but a visionary capable of steering our beloved institution to new heights—both on and off the field.

Nebraska Hoop Dreams

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMT

In a college basketball season that’s been more unpredictable than a Midwest weather forecast, the Nebraska Men’s Basketball team has managed to secure a VERY respectable record of 22-9, solidifying their 3rd place in the Big Ten standings like a well-planted cornstalk. I mean who would have guessed just a crumbling like Michigan experienced? Nebraska was picked for 12th Preseason!! Now, as the Big Ten Championship looms, the question on every Cornhusker fan’s mind is: Can Nebraska turn their season of promise into a postseason of glory?

Let’s crack open the Big Ten Tournament bracket and see where Nebraska stands. With the grace of a well-choreographed line dance, Nebraska has sidestepped into a favorable #3 seed position, which means they bypass the initial rounds of play faster than skipping stones over a still pond. Their tournament journey kicks off deep in the heart of the action, a privilege reserved for those who’ve proven their mettle during the regular season. Side note, When I think of a player on the roster with mettle, I think of Mast!

This strategic starting point in the quarterfinals is akin to getting a head start in a corn-eating contest—valuable, but no guarantee of success. Their first matchup, set against the backdrop of other teams battling it out, will be crucial. If the basketball “bounces” in a Cornhusker direction and the spirit of good ol’ Nebraskan perseverance are on their side, the Cornhuskers could leverage this bracket positioning to catapult themselves into the final round, where the air gets thinner and the competition is guaranteed to be tough.

Now, in the spirit of adding a pinch of humor to our Cornhusker cocktail, let’s ponder their journey ahead. The path is set, the lights are bright, and the eyes of basketball fans nationwide turn to Minneapolis. Will Nebraska’s road through the tournament be a smooth ride on a newly paved highway, or will they find themselves navigating a pothole-laden Omaha road? The answer lies in their ability to capitalize on this favorable seeding, their determination to outplay their opponents, and perhaps a little bit of that magical March madness luck.

Prediction time, folks! Given Nebraska’s impressive record, their strategic #3 seeding, and the undeniable heart they’ve shown all season, I’m betting my last husk of corn that they’ll make a formidable run in the Big Ten Tournament and make it to the Championship. The odds, once akin to finding a needle in a haystack, now whisper a tantalizing possibility of “Why not?”

So, strap in and hold onto your hats (or should I say, Husker caps), because we’re in for a ride that could very well end with Nebraska etching their name in Big Ten lore. And if they do, remember, you heard it here —amidst the dreams, the drama, and the undeniable thrill that is March Madness.