The Big Ten is unpredictable, except for the top four teams: Oregon, Ohio State, Penn State and Indiana. The rest of the league is in complete chaos.
Iowa’s 17-20 loss at UCLA, after dominating Wisconsin the week prior in its 42-10 victory, is just one example of how the middle of the pack is tight in competition. Rutgers beat Minnesota 26-19 to snap its four-game losing streak. Penn State, Ohio State and Oregon all cruised to victories over the weak opponents of: Washington, Purdue and Maryland. Indiana made school history on Saturday, improving to 10-0, after defeating defending National Champion Michigan 20-15, who’s now 5-5.
What does this mean for Nebraska?
Nebraska should be confident. Between USC, Wisconsin and Iowa, Big Red will match up well. Other than USC, Nebraska has out-recruited Wisconsin and Iowa year after year. It’s time that the money that was paid to Rhule and his staff, finally shows some improvement in November, rather than a drop in play.
Nebraska is right there in the middle of the Big Ten. If they can find some form of an offense, a win will happen. The Scarlet and Cream can’t panic after losing three straight.
Blowout wins still count the same as one-point victories. Nebraska’s biggest concern is that they are inconsistent in showing up on Saturdays. The additions of former West Virginia and Houston head coach Dana Holgorsen and former defensive coordinator under Matt Rhule Phil Snow will be fascinating to watch unfold.
Rhule is doing whatever it’s going to take to get that bowl berth. And if he doesn’t, this season will be a complete failure. The Huskers have the talent, but the lack of execution from players and preparation from coaches is currently dividing the team and fanbase. A win at USC would sure help, in a possible turning point for Nebraska.
