Are the Huskers Ready for the Main Course?
Sports Illustrated • • sports
Key Points:
- Nebraska's 2026 football season has started strong with a 3-0 record, but the true test lies ahead in the next nine games against tougher opponents, where expectations should be tempered despite early optimism.
- Legendary coach Tom Osborne was honored with induction into the Nebraska Hall of Fame, becoming the first living member inducted after a change in state law, recognizing both his coaching legacy and community contributions.
- Defensive coordinator Rob Aurich addressed criticism of the defense's lack of sacks, and Nebraska responded with five sacks against North Dakota, showing improvement in pass rush and secondary pressure.
- Key concerns moving forward include offensive turnovers, sustainability of the offensive line and running game against stronger Big Ten teams, and how the defense will perform against more potent offenses.
- Standout players include Jamal Rule, Kwazi Gilmer, and Anthony Colandrea on offense, and Owen Chambliss and the defensive line on defense, while areas needing improvement include penalties, forced turnovers, and game-day concessions logistics.
