As Nebraska prepares for two critical road games, both Big Noon Kickoff events on Fox, at Indiana this weekend and Ohio State next weekend, the stakes are high for the Huskers and how they’re perceived nationally and locally here in Nebraska. Here are three possible outcomes and their impacts on Nebraska’s image:
1. Two Losses: “Same Old Nebraska We’ve Been Seeing”
If Nebraska drops both games, the national narrative will change to the program is still stuck in a frustrating cycle of inconsistency. Despite Matt Rhule’s efforts to rebuild the program, two losses, especially in high-profile matchups, would signify that Nebraska continues to fall short when facing tougher competition. This outcome would dampen any momentum and could put bowl eligibility in question, especially given how competitive the Big Ten has become. Losses to Indiana and Ohio State would likely lead to criticism that the program has not significantly progressed under Rhule, keeping fan frustrations simmering.
2. One Win, One Loss: “Same Old Nebraska of Late”
A split result—either beating Indiana and losing to Ohio State, or vice versa—would reflect a middle ground for the Huskers. This outcome would likely reinforce the image of Nebraska as a team capable of flashes of success, but not yet ready to compete consistently at the top level of the Big Ten. A win over Indiana would be encouraging, especially given Indiana’s resurgence in 2024, but losing to a powerhouse like Ohio State wouldn’t be shocking. The narrative here would be one of incremental improvement but still underwhelming when facing the Big Ten’s elite teams. It’s a case of “good, but not quite great.”
3. Two Wins: “Good to See the Old Nebraska Again”
Now, if Nebraska manages to win both games, this would be the most exciting scenario for Husker Nation. Knocking off Indiana and Ohio State in consecutive weeks, especially with both games under the national spotlight, would send shockwaves through the Big Ten and beyond. Such a feat would revive the perception of Nebraska as a team that’s capable of competing with the best. The “same old Nebraska” in this context would harken back to the Huskers of the 90s, when the team was feared on a national level. Two victories would potentially catapult Nebraska back into the national rankings and position them as a serious contender in the Big Ten.
What I am Saying Is….
These two Big Noon Kickoff games could define Nebraska’s 2024 season and shape how the program is viewed in Matt Rhule’s second year. While two losses would feel like more of the same disappointment, two wins would evoke memories of the dominant Nebraska teams of the past and suggest that the program is finally heading in the right direction.