The Nebraska Cornhuskers won’t start the 2025 season ranked in the AP or Coaches Preseason Top 25, and for many, that’s not a shock. While the excitement surrounding Matt Rhule’s continued rebuild is very real in Lincoln, the national media is taking a “prove-it” stance. And honestly? That’s fair. Nebraska hasn’t put together a winning season in years, and the roster, while full of potential, is largely unproven. But make no mistake, this team has the makings of one that won’t stay out of the rankings for long.
Let’s address the elephant in the room, Nebraska has question marks. No one’s denying that. But questions aren’t the same as weaknesses. At multiple position groups, there’s a healthy dose of talent, depth, and upside and answers may be coming sooner than people think.
On defense, first year coordinator John Butler has this group playing fast, aggressive, and disruptive. The scheme looks built to create havoc, while Nebraska’s defense was very good last year, they just didn’t pressure the QB a lot, outside of a few games. That aggressive style is being matched by the front line, which might be young on paper, but it doesn’t look or move like a young group. The defensive line might just be the biggest surprise of the season with young guys like Keona Davis and redshirt freshman former 5-star Williams Nwaneri wreaking havoc early. Add in proven names like Cam Lenhardt and Elijah Jeudy along with the surging Riley Van Poppel, and suddenly this front four has the juice to compete with anyone.
The linebacker room has been quietly reloaded. The starting MLB and Jack linebackers will most likely be transfers with Watson- Trent and McCullough getting the nod to start alongside Husker staple Javin Wright. But the real excitement comes behind them with McGahee, Bowers, Ochoa, Shavers and Dawson Merritt who are all young and extremely talented.
Once again the offense has the potential to be very high powered but lacks proof. With the exception of Raiola, and at times even the freshman phenom was shaky. No one besides Jacory Barney has proven production at a skill position.
So yes, Nebraska didn’t make the preseason Top 25. But in a way, that might be a blessing. This team is built to fly under the radar early and make noise by midseason. With a hungry roster, a more aggressive defense, a deep offensive line, and the physical identity Rhule preaches, Nebraska is poised to earn its way into the rankings.
By the time Michigan rolls into town don’t be surprised if the Huskers are in the Top 25 and ready to make a statement.
