Nebraska vs. Maryland: Why the Huskers Could Triumph... and Why They Might Fall Short
Nebraska’s season has been building toward pivotal matchups against four powerhouse "M" teams — Michigan, Michigan State, Maryland, and Minnesota. Back in August, we speculated that if Nebraska could emerge with a 3-1 record from those games, it might set the stage for their best season in more than a decade. That prediction still stands.
Right now, the Huskers sit at 1-1 in those key clashes and are preparing for their first true road test of the year: a high-stakes showdown against Maryland this Saturday. Kickoff is at 2:30 p.m. CT. For head coach Matt Rhule, the pressure is real; his Big Ten road record is just 2-8, a stat that raises eyebrows.
This matchup has an intriguing contrast: storied national powerhouse Nebraska against a Maryland team still carving out its place on the national stage. Both squads are 4-1, and the Huskers head into the game favored by 6.5 points according to most sportsbooks. But here’s where it gets controversial — Maryland won’t simply wilt in awe of Nebraska, a sight we’ve perhaps grown used to in years past.
Three Reasons Nebraska Could Win
Offense that Scores Big
Nebraska boasts the 11th-ranked scoring offense nationally, averaging an impressive 42.4 points per game. However, when you remove blowout wins against Akron and Houston Christian, their numbers dip to 28.3 points per contest versus FBS opponents — ranking them closer to 70th nationwide. Still, the Huskers find ways to put points on the board, led by quarterback Dylan Raiola's mastery in the passing game.
The stats highlight their strengths: 30th in total offense, 8th in passing (320.2 yards per game), but a lowly 101st in rushing (129.2 yards). Maryland’s defense gives up 318.4 yards per game, ranking 41st. If offense truly wins games, Nebraska has a potent edge.
Dominant Pass Defense
Nebraska owns the top-ranked passing defense in the country and sits 11th overall in total defense. Maryland's offense ranks only 97th, putting the Terps at an inherent disadvantage. Defensive coordinator John Butler is likely crafting schemes to disrupt Maryland freshman QB Malik Washington — both collapsing the middle and preventing damage on the edges.
Tradition and Legacy
Maryland has scraped together just three winning seasons in the past decade and hasn’t reached nine wins since 2010. By contrast, Nebraska players speak often about wearing a jersey steeped in championship history — five national titles' worth. That kind of tradition doesn’t form overnight, and it might carry weight when the pressure peaks.
Three Reasons Nebraska Could Lose
Malik Washington: Maryland's X-Factor
Washington is arguably the most polished pocket passer the Huskers will face this year. His numbers are sharp — 110 completions on 183 attempts (60.1%) for 1,257 yards, nine touchdowns, and just two interceptions. He’s also thrown more passes than anyone else in the Big Ten. If he finds rhythm with tight end Dorian Fleming or his successful corps of receivers, the Terps could keep Nebraska on its heels.
Maryland's Bounce-Back Mentality
Last week, the Terps led top-tier Washington 20-0 and still held a 17-point edge entering the fourth quarter — only to lose 24-20. Was it a case of an experienced powerhouse outlasting a team unused to closing big wins? Maybe. But history shows crossroads moments can define a season. Beating Nebraska would validate Maryland as more than a .500 team.
Nebraska's Run Defense Weakness
If Maryland hopes to avoid Nebraska's lock-tight pass coverage, they'll have to run the ball. Here’s the twist: Nebraska's run defense is shaky, ranked 88th nationally while allowing 115.6 yards per game. Unfortunately for Maryland, their rushing offense ranks 128th with just 93.2 yards per game. Coach Michael Locksley suggested pounding the run might be their best tactic regardless. Could this strategic gamble pay off?
The Big Question
Nebraska comes in with tradition, statistical advantages, and a passing game that could break Maryland wide open. Yet Maryland has a fearless young quarterback, home-field momentum, and a chance to prove doubters wrong.
Will the Huskers assert their legacy dominance, or will Maryland seize the moment and reshape its reputation? What do you think — is Nebraska simply too strong, or is Maryland ready for the upset? Let’s hear your take in the comments.
