Eric Boggs
The Nebraska Cornhuskers enter the 2024 season with a mix of optimism and caution, as the program aims to rebound from years of struggle under new head coach Matt Rhule. After the disappointments of the Scott Frost era, fans are eager to see if Rhule can finally lead Nebraska back to prominence. The arrival of five-star quarterback Dylan Raiola has reignited hope, but the scars of past failures still linger, making this season one of the most anticipated in recent memory.
High Expectations and Lingering Doubts
National media figures, including Joel Klatt, have suggested that Nebraska could be a borderline playoff team in 2024, a notion that resonates with the diehard fan base. However, many Husker faithful are tempering their expectations after the unfulfilled promises of the Frost era. Despite annual optimism, Nebraska failed to reach even a 6-6 record under Frost, leaving fans disillusioned and cautious about the future.
Nebraska’s absence from bowl games for seven consecutive years is unprecedented in the program’s proud history. Once a perennial powerhouse, the Cornhuskers have struggled to reclaim their former glory. Now, with Rhule at the helm, there is cautious optimism that the Huskers will finally turn the corner. The question remains whether that turnaround will result in a 6-6 or 7-5 season, or if Nebraska could achieve a more impressive 9-3 record. The old expectations of greatness are still alive, and anything less than significant improvement will likely be met with disappointment.
Strengths and Weaknesses
The 2024 Nebraska team is expected to be anchored by its defense, which was ranked among the top 15 nationally last season. With key players like Nash Hutmacher (the “Polar Bear”) and Isaac Gifford returning, the defensive line is poised to be formidable. Rhule, known for his defensive acumen, has instilled a tough, disciplined mentality that should keep Nebraska competitive in most games.
However, the offense remains a significant question mark. The running back position is unsettled, and the offensive line, a perennial issue for Nebraska, must show marked improvement. Additionally, special teams are a major concern. In a conference like the Big Ten, where games are often decided by field position and kicking, any deficiencies in special teams could be costly.
Key Matchups and Predictions
Colorado
One of the most intriguing games on Nebraska’s schedule is the Week 2 matchup against Colorado. This rivalry, renewed with Deion Sanders coaching the Buffaloes, promises to be intense. Historically, Nebraska has dominated this series, but recent history hasn’t been kind to the Huskers. Despite Colorado’s flashy offseason moves, many believe Nebraska should win this game, especially with the home-field advantage at Memorial Stadium. However, there’s a sense of caution—Colorado might not be as formidable, but catching them early in the season could be tricky.
Northern Iowa and Illinois
Following Colorado, Nebraska faces Northern Iowa at home, a game they are expected to win. This is followed by another home game against Illinois. While Illinois has been a thorn in Nebraska’s side in recent years, the expectation is that Nebraska’s physicality and home-field advantage will give them the edge.
Purdue
The first road test comes against Purdue, a team often overlooked but dangerous. With a challenging schedule ahead of them, Purdue could be better than their record indicates. Nebraska will need to be focused to secure a win here.
Ohio State
A daunting trip to Columbus awaits in Week 9, where Nebraska will face the powerhouse Ohio State Buckeyes. Most analysts see this as the toughest game on the Huskers’ schedule. While optimism runs high among some fans who predict an upset, the general consensus is that this game will be a significant challenge.
UCLA and USC
As the season winds down, Nebraska will face UCLA and USC, two of the new Big Ten members. UCLA is expected to struggle this season, and by the time they visit Lincoln in early November, Nebraska could take advantage of cold weather conditions to secure a win. The game against USC, however, will be tougher, especially on the road. The Trojans, while possibly overhyped, still possess the talent to challenge Nebraska.
Iowa
The season finale against Iowa is another game steeped in rivalry and emotion. Over the past decade, Iowa has dominated this matchup, winning eight of the last nine meetings. However, Nebraska fans see this as an opportunity to reclaim bragging rights. The intense dislike between the fanbases adds extra fuel to this already heated rivalry.
Season Expectations
Nebraska fans are cautiously optimistic about the 2024 season. Most expect the team to be bowl-eligible, with predictions ranging from a floor of 6-6 to a ceiling of 10-2. The defense is expected to be a strength, potentially ranking among the nation’s top units. The offense, led by quarterback Dylan Raiola, will be the key to determining how high this team can rise. If the offense can be merely average, Nebraska could find itself competing for a top spot in the Big Ten West.
Final Thoughts
As the 2024 season approaches, Nebraska fans are hopeful that this year will mark the beginning of a new era of success. The pressure is on to deliver results, and while the defense is expected to be strong, the offense and special teams must step up if the Huskers are to return to bowl eligibility and beyond. The fan base’s patience has worn thin after years of unfulfilled promises, but there is hope that Rhule can finally lead Nebraska back to prominence.
If the pieces fall into place, Nebraska could surprise many and exceed expectations. But if the ghosts of the past continue to haunt the program, it could be another long season in Lincoln. No matter the outcome, the 2024 season is sure to be a pivotal chapter in the ongoing story of Nebraska football.
