As we gear up for the Colorado Buffaloes versus Nebraska Cornhuskers showdown, anticipation is building for what promises to be a thrilling contest. The coaching styles and culture clash aside, this heated rivalry is major for both fanbases. The last time the Huskers celebrated a victory over Colorado was back in 2010 with a memorable 45-17 win. Unfortunately, since then, the Huskers have been on a losing streak in their last three matchups against the Buffaloes. This game holds extra weight, as a win would mark the Huskers first 2-0 start since 2016. This has big game written all over it, and to me might be the biggest game of the year. Now, I know it’s not a conference game or anything like that, but it’s such a marquee matchup that will set the tone for the rest of the year. It’s the type of game that Nebraska hasn’t won in a decade, and that’s when the program started to derail. I see this as a must win for the Huskers Saturday night.
Visitors and Key Players
This match is not just crucial for maintaining momentum but also due to the presence of some big-time visitors. Among them are 5-star offensive lineman Jackson Cantwell and 5 Star athlete Michael Terry, both of whom the Huskers would like to add to the recruiting cycle. The Huskers are also hosting many others, some of which are already committed in this cycle.
Key playmakers for the Buffaloes include star quarterback and probable first round NFL star Shedeur Sanders, two-way star Travis Hunter and speedster WR Jimmy Horn Jr, who have been instrumental in creating big plays for Colorado going back to last year. Colorado also upgraded its offensive line and has a whole new unit out there, including a true freshman five star. For the Huskers, obviously Dylan Raiola’s debut last week had national media talking but it was just one game. Can he continue, and can he do it under a much bigger spotlight? His favorite receiver appeared to be transfer WR Isiah Neyor and Jamal Banks. Both are big and athletic, but don’t forget about our own speedy options in Jayln Lloyd and Jacory Barney Jr. The running back rotation for the Huskers will be a four-man rotation again, with Rhule remarking today that he doesn’t know who will get the first rep. Meanwhile, Colorado doesn’t really run the ball, and when they tried last week, they failed. In the post-game, Coach Sanders was asked about having more balance to his offense and basically said “balance is winning.” “Thats what balance is”……… Are you confused? So am I.
CU versus NDSU Review
Nebraska might be the 7.5-point favorites, but Colorado’s explosive plays last week against NDSU show they have the potential to score in a hurry. Last week, Colorado boasted nine plays of 15 yards or more, including touchdown passes of 41 and 69 yards, and two completions over 25 yards. However, consistency remains an issue, as they also allowed eight explosive plays. Sanders was sacked only once, albeit he felt heavily pressured all game. Last week’s performance showed some areas where Colorado needs improvement. On the ground, they had 23 attempts for just 59 yards, averaging 2.9 yards per carry. In contrast, NDSU averaged slightly better at 3.33 yards per rush. On the other hand, Nebraska displayed a strong running game against UTEP, rushing for 223 yards against. I like the odds of our defense getting to Sanders more than just once, and he will be under duress the whole game. Colorado’s effective third-down conversions were a key factor in their win, going 7-11 on third downs. Nebraska’s defense will need to find ways to stop those conversions and capitalize on their own explosive potential to secure this vital win.
Prediction
This game is pivotal for the Nebraska Cornhuskers to turn the tide and break the losing streak against an old foe. With the stakes higher than usual, not only for pride but also for a strong season start, expect both teams to bring their A-game. Between the playmakers, the visiting prospects, and the weight of this game, fans are in for a spectacle that will surely live up to the rivalry’s storied history. The game being under the lights, the loud stadium along with Nebraska’s much improved offense will be too much for Colorado to handle, while the Huskers defense will have to struggle to contain an explosive Colorado offense. Give me Nebraska, 31-28.
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