Skip to content
Contact us

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

Picture of 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.

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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:

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. Strengthened Defense: Defense has been a focus in the off-season, with strategic recruitments and rigorous training aimed at tightening up previous vulnerabilities.

  4. 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.