Huskers to Face Tough Challenge Hosting Northwestern
In a highly anticipated matchup, the Nebraska Cornhuskers will host the Northwestern Wildcats this Saturday at 11 a.m. The game will take place at Memorial Stadium and is set to be broadcast on FS1. Both teams have shown strong performances this season, but they face distinct challenges.
Huskers’ Ground Game Under Scrutiny
The Nebraska offense, led by junior running back Emmett Johnson, aims to improve its rushing game. Johnson is currently ranked 11th nationally, averaging 101.2 rushing yards per game. Additionally, he ranks fifth in yards from scrimmage with 125.7 yards per game.
- Johnson has 75 career receptions, making him the third Husker running back to achieve this milestone.
- He needs just one yard to surpass 500 career receiving yards.
Defensive Pressure from Northwestern
Northwestern (5-2) presents a formidable challenge with a veteran defense. The Wildcats excel at running the ball, averaging 190.1 rushing yards per game. Their attack is spearheaded by redshirt sophomore Caleb Komolafe, who has rushed for 483 yards and four touchdowns this season.
- Komolafe is expected to play, despite an upper-body injury sustained during last week’s game against Purdue.
- Dashun Reeder has averaged 10.1 yards per carry, contributing significantly to the Wildcats’ ground success.
Quarterback Matchup
Northwestern’s senior quarterback Preston Stone has completed 111 of 187 passes for 1,213 yards, with 10 touchdowns and seven interceptions. Although he is not known for running, his ability to connect with receivers like Griffin Wilde makes him a crucial player for the Wildcats.
Wilde, a junior transfer, leads the team with 36 receptions and 516 receiving yards, demonstrating his significant role in Northwestern’s passing game.
Offensive Line Challenges for Nebraska
On the other side, Nebraska’s offensive line faces considerable pressure. They have allowed 25 sacks for 167 yards, exacerbated in their last matchup at Minnesota, where they surrendered nine sacks.
Coach Matt Rhule highlighted the need for improvement, stating, “Nine sacks is not good enough.” He emphasized that accountability lies not just with the offensive line but also with the entire offense, including the running backs. “The ball needs to get out faster, and we have to protect better,” he added.
Injuries and Expectations
In the previous game against Minnesota, Nebraska lost two key offensive linemen. Guard Rocco Spindler suffered a hand injury, while tackle Elijah Pritchett was ejected for targeting. Spindler underwent surgery and will be evaluated based on pain tolerance for the Northwestern game.
Backup quarterback Dylan Raiola took responsibility for the sacks, stating, “I put those (sacks) on me.” He stressed the importance of team unity and support, underscoring that everyone, including the coaching staff, must adapt and improve.
Focus on Physicality
As Nebraska prepares for this pivotal game, the emphasis will be on physicality and controlling the game on the ground. Both teams need to assert themselves in the run game, essential in Big Ten football.
With both teams required to navigate their respective challenges, this matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter as the Huskers face a tough challenge hosting Northwestern.
