The Nebraska Cornhuskers are inching closer to the national spotlight after a hard-fought 38–27 victory over Michigan State on Saturday. While still in the “others receiving votes” category, Nebraska now ranks as the equivalent of No. 30 in the latest media poll, earning 60 points. In the coaches’ poll, the Huskers sit at No. 35 with 17 points.
One of Nebraska’s early-season wins is aging well: the 20–17 opening victory over Cincinnati. The Bearcats have surged in recent weeks, defeating Kansas and then ranked Iowa State at home this Saturday. Cincinnati now sits just outside the Top 25 at No. 26 in the media poll and No. 28 in the coaches’ poll.
National shake-up: Texas and Penn State drop out
The national rankings saw major shifts this weekend, with Texas and Penn State falling out of the AP Top 25. Penn State remains at No. 22 in the coaches’ poll despite a stunning loss to UCLA — a team that began the season 0–4.
Next up: Maryland showdown looms
Nebraska now prepares for its first true road test of the season, traveling to Maryland for a 2:30 p.m. CT kickoff this Saturday. Both teams enter the matchup with 4–1 records, though Nebraska is a slight favorite in early betting lines. Maryland nearly cracked the Top 25 but collapsed late against Washington, blowing a 20–3 fourth-quarter lead and losing 24–20.
Michigan rises, Nebraska takes note
Michigan, which narrowly defeated Nebraska 30–27 in Lincoln earlier this season, has climbed to No. 15 in both major polls after a dominant 24–10 win over Wisconsin. The Wolverines’ rise adds weight to Nebraska’s competitive resume.
Matt Rhule: “We’re not perfect, but we show up every week”
Head coach Matt Rhule acknowledged that the team still has areas to clean up, but praised the Huskers’ resilience. “We are not a perfect team,” Rhule said. “We have to play around all of our things. But I also say we show up every week. Even when it’s not perfect, our guys show up.”
With back-to-back road games against Maryland and Minnesota ahead, Nebraska has a chance to prove its consistency and edge closer to a Top 25 spot. The only ranked opponent remaining on the Huskers’ schedule is Penn State — still hanging on in the coaches’ poll despite recent setbacks.