This weekend, The Cornhuskers and the Badgers, both with 5-5 records, meet in a crucial game to secure bowl eligibility and a winning season.
Wisconsin is coming off a tough three-game losing streak against Penn State, Iowa, and Oregon. The Badgers nearly upset No. 1 Oregon but fell short in the final minutes, losing 16-13. With one more win needed for a bowl bid, Wisconsin will give Nebraska everything they have this Saturday inside Memorial Stadium.
Nebraska, after a strong 5-1 start, has struggled with four consecutive losses to Indiana, Ohio State, UCLA, and USC. The Cornhuskers are determined to turn things around on Senior Day, their final home game of the season.
A key factor in the game will be Wisconsin quarterback Braeden Locke, who has thrown for 1,418 yards, 9 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions this season. Nebraska’s defense will look to capitalize on Locke’s interceptions by seeing if the Blackshirt defensive line can pressure Locke, though Wisconsin’s stout offensive line poses a challenge. Wisconsin will also be able to turn to their running back Tawee Walker, who is only 227 yards away from a 1,000 yard rushing season.
Meanwhile, Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola has confidently guaranteed a win to ensure a bowl game for the Cornhuskers. His leadership will be crucial as he gains back some confidence lost mid-season. Raiola has yet to be able to utilize his weapons on the outside at receiver yet this year. Hopefully Nebraska can get the run game going early and utilize Haarberg at a slot or wing position as new offensive coordinator Dana Holgerson enters into week three with the Huskers.
Both teams have strong defenses, with Wisconsin’s defense nearly on par with Nebraska’s. This matchup promises to be a fierce and closely contested battle, as both teams strive for a season saving win. This will be your typical Big 10 match-up, just with a few wrinkles thrown in.
