Nebraska football is back in action this weekend, hosting Michigan State at home for a 3 p.m. CT kickoff on FS1. This game wraps up a stretch of four home games in five weeks for the Huskers.
They’re coming off a bye, sitting at 3-1 overall and 0-1 in Big Ten play. Their last game was a tight 30-27 loss to No. 21 Michigan.
As Nebraska gets ready for Michigan State, both teams are still searching for their first Big Ten win of the year. There’s a little extra tension in the air because of it, honestly.
Nebraska’s Offensive and Defensive Strengths
Nebraska’s passing attack has been something to see. They’re second in the country in passing offense, averaging 351.8 yards a game, and their quarterbacks are hitting 77.6 percent of their throws.
On defense, Nebraska’s been stingy, allowing just 75.8 passing yards per game—a number that leads the nation. Opponents are completing just over half their passes against them.
These stats show Nebraska can air it out and shut down quarterbacks, but there’s more to the story.
Offensive Struggles in the Red Zone
Even with all those yards, Nebraska’s been tripping up in the red zone. Every game, they’ve had at least one drive stall out deep in enemy territory.
The recent bye week gave Head Coach Dana Holgorsen and Matt Rhule some time to look in the mirror and figure out what’s going wrong. It’s pretty clear that fixing this is key if Nebraska wants to turn those yards into points.
Michigan State’s Offensive and Special Teams Prowess
Michigan State, led by Jonathan Smith, is also 3-1 overall and 0-1 in the Big Ten. The Spartans put up almost 375 yards of offense a game, with 220 coming through the air, and they’re scoring over 34 points per game.
Special teams? Michigan State’s got one of the best units in the country. They rank near the top in net punting, kickoff returns, and punt returns.
Special Teams Battle
Special teams could be a big factor, especially with strong winds expected at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska’s special teams have made strides, landing in the Top-25 for net punting and punt returns.
But Michigan State’s units are tough, so Nebraska’s got their work cut out for them. Whoever handles the wind better might just end up with the better field position all game.
Key Players to Watch
There are a few guys to keep an eye on. For Nebraska, Emmett Johnson is a big piece in the run game. He’s racked up 391 rushing yards on 71 carries, plus 73 receiving yards on 16 catches so far.
They’ll need him to bounce back after things didn’t go so well against Michigan. Can he get it going this week?
Defensive Standouts
Nebraska’s defense needs to step up against Michigan State’s offense. Linebacker Dasan McCullough is coming off a game where he had two tackles for loss, including a sack against Michigan.
Andrew Marshall at defensive back might be due for his first interception as a Husker. Maybe he’ll pick off a pass from Michigan State’s quarterback, Aidan Chiles, if he gets the chance.
Predictions and Final Thoughts
Mike Schaefer sees Nebraska coming out on top, 41-28, saying the Huskers will finally finish drives and score despite the wind. Brian Christopherson predicts a 34-24 win for Nebraska, pointing to the offensive line’s response and Dylan Raiola’s leadership as difference-makers.
Michael Bruntz is calling it 33-26 for Nebraska. He thinks the offense will do just enough to secure that first Big Ten victory. Should be an interesting one, honestly—hard to say for sure how it’ll shake out.
This game between Nebraska and Michigan State is shaping up to be a big one for both teams. They’re both coming off a bye week, so you can bet there’ll be a few surprises and fresh adjustments on both sides.
Nebraska’s got to finish their drives and handle the wind—never easy in November. If they can keep Michigan State’s offense in check, their chances look pretty good.
Want more details or some expert takes? Check out the full article on 247Sports.
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