Alright, Husker Nation, it’s game day eve, and Nebraska is set to square off against Rutgers. While there have been some injury hiccups—kicker Tristan Alvano is still out and Tommi Hill’s return is on the fence—the Huskers have more than enough juice to get the job done. Here’s why, even with these variables, Nebraska is ready to send Rutgers back to New Jersey with a loss.
1. The Defense: Locking It Down, As Usual
The Huskers’ defense is still the cornerstone of this team, and that hasn’t changed whether Hill plays or not. With Nash Hutmacher and Ty Robinson leading the charge, Nebraska’s front seven continues to stuff the run like it’s Thanksgiving dinner. Rutgers, known for their ground-and-pound approach, is going to have a tough time finding gaps in Nebraska’s armor. Even if Rutgers tries to switch it up with a more pass-heavy strategy, the secondary has stepped up nicely in Hill’s absence. And if Hill is back? It’s just icing on the cake. Either way, the Blackshirts are ready to keep Rutgers locked down.
2. Rutgers’ Offense: Predictable and Beatable
Rutgers relies heavily on the run, but against a Nebraska defense that’s allowed almost nothing on the ground this season, that’s going to be an uphill battle for the Scarlet Knights. Nebraska has proven they can adjust to stop the pass if they need to, but Rutgers’ aerial attack isn’t exactly striking fear into anyone. The Huskers’ ability to take away their bread and butter is going to force Rutgers to play a style they’re not built for—and that’s where Nebraska capitalizes.
3. Special Teams: A Small Hiccup, But Manageable
Tristan Alvano being out is a challenge, no question. But even without him, Nebraska’s special teams haven’t fallen off a cliff. Punter Brian Buschini is still flipping the field like a pro, and while field goals may be a little shakier without Alvano, Nebraska should focus on finishing drives with touchdowns rather than settling for three. If it does come down to a few long kicks, well, we might be holding our breath. But the rest of the special teams unit is still solid, and Nebraska has handled adversity in this area before.
4. Experience in the Trenches
Close games in the Big Ten are where Nebraska’s been living recently. Yes, they’ve had their fair share of tight finishes, including that overtime heartbreaker against Illinois. But they’ve learned from those battles, and that kind of experience gives them an edge over a Rutgers team that hasn’t seen the same level of competition this season. Nebraska’s ability to grind out tough games will serve them well here.
Updated Final Score Prediction:
With the possibility of Tommi Hill returning to bolster an already formidable defense, Nebraska looks primed to control the game. Rutgers will put up a fight, but Nebraska’s ability to shut down their run game and maintain strong field position will be the deciding factors. I’m sticking with Nebraska 24, Rutgers 17—Rutgers will make it interesting, but the Huskers will pull away in the second half.