Nebraska enters the final stretch of its regular season facing a difficult challenge as the team prepares to face Rutgers.
The Huskers currently hold a 5-4 record and are navigating a four-game losing streak that threatens their bowl game eligibility.
Following the departure of offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen, the team has turned to Glenn Thomas to lead the offense, according to “reporting from Yahoo Sports.”
Thomas has worked with the program since quarterback Dylan Raiola arrived, and he now faces the task of revitalizing an offense that has struggled to exceed 17 points during its recent skid.
Rutgers, sitting at 2-7, presents a unique set of obstacles for the visitors.
The Scarlet Knights have struggled defensively, having yet to hold a Big Ten opponent below 28 points this season, as noted by “data provided by USA Today.”
Nebraska must contend with significant injuries on the defensive side of the ball, as Andrew Marshall, Anthony Jones and Owen Chambliss are ruled out for the matchup.
The availability of Rutgers quarterback AJ Surace remains uncertain, potentially forcing third-string signal caller Sean Ashenfelder into the lineup.
Ashenfelder previously saw action in a loss to Northwestern where he recorded 36 passing yards and an interception.
The Scarlet Knights will also be without star wide receiver KJ Duff, who has accounted for nearly 40 percent of the team’s receiving yards this year.
Despite these absences, the hosts may rely on a strong rushing attack led by Antwan Raymond and Clay Thevenin, who have combined for over 140 yards per game.
Nebraska’s recent performance has been hampered by penalties and an inability to close out games in the final minutes.
Analysts suggest the outcome will likely hinge on individual plays rather than overall dominance.
The matchup is considered a must-win for the Huskers, yet experts at “Cornhuskers Wire” have projected a 24-20 victory for Rutgers.
Both teams are currently dealing with injury concerns and poor records, contributing to an unpredictable atmosphere for this weekend’s conference clash.