Nebraska beat Cincinnati 20–17 in week one in what was essentially a home game. Woo. While the Huskers barely squeaked out that win on a late Malcolm Hartzog interception, a win is a win. Or is it?
The fan base reaction on social media was, predictably, mixed. Many pointed to concerns about the defensive line and the running back depth. That’s Husker Nation for you—rarely satisfied. But this week, when offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen and defensive coordinator John Butler met with the media, the frustration was apparent. Even head coach Matt Rhule’s Monday press conference carried an undertone of dissatisfaction, despite the victory.
Some fans see this as a cause for concern, arguing that even the coaches know the team has problems. I don’t see that as a bad thing. In fact, I think it’s a major reason for optimism. Here’s why:
Nebraska won its opener against a Power Four opponent in a big-game atmosphere—that’s no small feat. In fact, Nebraska has not done this in over 20 years. And let’s be honest: week one across college football is always ugly. Just look around. Alabama got embarrassed. The week zero match-up between Iowa State and Kansas State was hard to watch. The pre-season Heisman favorite in Arch Manning could barely read a defense. That’s the reality of a sport with no preseason games.
The difference? Nebraska’s staff isn’t celebrating survival. There are no moral victories here. Even with two very winnable “lay-up” games coming next, the coaches are dialing up the pressure and demanding improvement. That is the real reason for optimism.
In my opinion, this is what has been missing in recent years. Remember Mike Riley’s ice cream treats? Or Scott Frost’s endless moral victory type speeches? I’m not here to tear those guys down—well, maybe just a little—but to highlight the contrast. The best coaches are demanding, exacting, and never satisfied.
That’s the real reason for optimism.
As Rhule himself said, the biggest jumps in improvement usually come between Weeks One and Two. If the Huskers turn that urgency into execution, this season could look very different from years past.
Go Big Red.