LINCOLN — Former Husker standout Adam Carriker is tackling the two biggest questions in Lincoln today: Is Matt Rhule’s football program finally bowl-bound, and can Fred Hoiberg’s basketball squad finally break the most infamous curse in college hoops?
The «5.5» Vegas Disrespect?
As Nebraska football enters Year 4 under Matt Rhule, Las Vegas has set the over/under for wins at a modest 5.5. Carriker notes that while the number isn’t shocking given recent history, it feels low for a fan base expecting a leap forward. According to Carriker, the key is a hot start. He predicts the Huskers must go at least 4-1 in their first five games—including a massive road test at Michigan State—to build enough momentum to reach the six-win threshold. With a 5-3 record entering the final stretch, a bowl game would finally be within reach, potentially culminating in a high-stakes rivalry game against Iowa.
Breaking the «Big Dance» Curse
On the hardwood, the stakes are even higher. Nebraska Basketball enters the NCAA Tournament as a No. 4 seed, facing the Sun Belt champion Troy Trojans. Despite being 13.5-point favorites, Carriker warns against complacency.
Troy’s fast-paced guard play could rattle the Huskers if they don’t stay disciplined. Nebraska’s 77 PPG average shows they have the firepower, but they are still chasing that elusive first-ever tournament win. «Can they finally break through?» remains the question on every Nebraskan’s lips.
A Golden Era for Husker Athletics
It’s not just football and men’s hoops. Carriker highlighted a «Husker Renaissance,» noting the women’s basketball team’s tournament bid and a massive 19-game combined winning streak between the baseball and softball programs. Whether it’s the gridiron or the diamond, the «N» is trending up.