Former Defensive Coordinator Erik Chinander was fired after the 49-14 loss to Oklahoma at home.

There is hope of the 2023 season being much better for the Blackshirts as Tony White, the former defensive coordinator from Syracuse, was brought in to coach.

In 2022, Coach White had the Syracuse defense only allowing 23.1 points per game, which was 41st in the country. 

MORE: Offensive Nebraska players to watch in 2023

Coach White brings in the 3-3-5 defensive system and that should bring challenges for opposing offenses in 2023 and on.

With the resources at Nebraska, Coach White should be able to bring the players that he wants to beef up that side of the ball at a much higher level than at Syracuse. 

It’s already been seen with this past off-season with all of the talents picked up in the 2023 class and transfer portal class. 

With that being said, here are the five Blackshirts to watch for Nebraska in 2023.

Nebraska Defenders to Watch in 2023

Luke Reimer (Linebacker, Senior)

The senior linebacker has been the leading tackler for Huskers for the past two seasons, with 86 in 2022 and 108 in 2021.

He has had a heck of a story from being a walk-on in his freshman year to being the leading tackler for the past two seasons on scholarship.

Reimer has been honored as an All-Big Ten Honorable Mention for the past two seasons and will be looking to build off past successes in 2023.

If Reimer can stay healthy in 2023, he is primed for a very successful season in Coach White’s 3-3-5 system.

Cameron Lenhardt (Defensive Lineman, Freshman)

Cameron Lenhardt was one of the most coveted defensive linemen coming out of IMG Academy. As a senior in Brandenton, Lenhardt recorded 21 total tackles, with seven tackles for loss.

Already as a freshman, Lenhardt will be competing for starting sport on the defensive line. Coach Matt Rhule said that he and sophomore Blaise Gunnerson are competing for the starting lineup.

Regardless, Lenhardt should get playing time as a true freshman and should be someone to watch in 2023.

Malcolm Hartzog (Cornerback, Sophomore)

Malcolm Hartzog had an impressive season as a freshman in 2022. Hartzog burst onto the scene with a blocked punt return touchdown against Indiana.

Hartzog would go on and lead the team in interceptions with three through all 12 games. He would accumulate 22 total tackles including one for loss.

With all of that, if Hartzog can build off his impressive 2022, he should have a successful 2023 season for the Blackshirts.

M.J. Sherman (Linebacker, Junior)

M.J. Sherman, a transfer from Georgia, comes to Nebraska with the experience of what it’s like to win two national championships in a row. 

Unfortunately for Sherman, he comes to Lincoln with limited experience, with only 14 total tackles from 2020-2022. Despite this, Sherman is expected to have a major role on the 2023 defense and is a part of one of the most talented positions on the defense as well. 

The junior linebacker is somebody to watch for a breakout season in 2023, especially with the aforementioned 3-3-5 defense. With his potential, he could be a force to be reckoned with in this upcoming season. 

Princewill Umanmielen (Defensive Line, Freshman)

Along with Lenhardt, Princewill Umanmielen is a freshman to watch for having an immediate impact on the Blackshirts. 

Umanmielen was a four-star coming out of Manor High School in Manor, Texas. He earned an invitation to the High School All-American Bowl after being named a consensus top 300 prospect in high school. 

In his final two seasons at Manor, Umanmielen accumulated 130 total tackles, including 47 for loss and 21 total sacks in 22 total games. He was named as the district defensive lineman as a senior and was ranked as a top 25 edge rusher by 247 Sports. 

The Season is Around the Corner

The 2023 season can’t come any faster and there is a lot to look forward to. With the additions in high school recruiting and the transfer portal, the defense should be improved in 2023. 

There will come some kinks that will be needed to be fixed, especially with implementing a new defensive system. Despite that, the 3-3-5 defense has the potential of being a very tough matchup for opponents every week. 

Main Image: Dylan Widger-USA TODAY Sports

Source

In the past, the offense has been held back by a multitude of different things. Penalties, injuries, turnovers, and questionable play-calling have held back the Huskers in the past few seasons.

With Coach Matt Rhule coming into his first season, there is hope to lessen the mistakes to help make the offense shine in the next few seasons.

With that being said, here are five players to watch on the Nebraska offense in 2023.

Players to Watch on Nebraska’s Offense in 2023

Jeff Sims (Quarterback, Junior)

There is no surprise that the transfer out of Georgia Tech will be one to watch. Jeff Sims brings in a strong arm and a good ability to scramble out of the pocket.

At Georgia Tech, Sims passed for a total of 4,464 yards and 30 touchdowns over three seasons. Sims also accumulated 1,152 yards on the ground with 11 touchdowns.

There are concerns about turnovers and injuries with Sims. In the three seasons in Atlanta, Sims threw 23 interceptions. In 2021 and 2022, Sims only played in less than nine games in both seasons due to injury.

Despite this, Sims can hopefully clean up the turnovers under Coach Rhule and it should help to have an experienced offensive line to protect him.

With that all being said, Sims is primed for a successful 2023 season.

Thomas Fidone (Tight End, Sophomore)

The former No. 1 tight end in the 2021 class is set to start for the first time in Lincoln. Thomas Fidone has been unlucky, tearing the same ACL twice in back-to-back seasons.

In his senior year at Lewis Central High School (Council Bluffs, Iowa), Fidone was a first-team All-America, getting 43 catches for 845 yards and 10 touchdowns. 

Fidone was the highest-rated recruit to sign to Nebraska since 2008 and he hasn’t gotten to showcase that talent. 

With the lack of depth at the tight end position, Fidone will be forced to play more. Despite that, with his potential Fidone is set for a very successful 2023 season.

Gabe Ervin Jr (Running Back, Sophomore)

Gabe Ervin Jr is one of many great running backs that Nebraska has on the roster for 2023. With a very deep position group, Ervin Jr should get his chance to shine in the new offense system.

Ervin Jr was the first freshman running back to start in the season opener in the modern era of Nebraska football in 2021 at Illinois. He would run for 133 yards on 37 carries and two touchdowns before suffering a season-ending injury at No. 3 Oklahoma. 

In 2022, Ervin Jr played in eight games, rushing for only 94 yards on 20 carries 

Throughout the off-season, Ervin Jr has been working and getting stronger. With all the work he has done through the off-season, he has earned playing time and is worth a watch.

Ben Scott (Center, Junior)

Ben Scott, a center transfer from Arizona State, makes an immediate impact on Nebraska’s offensive line. He brings a veteran presence that the offensive line has needed in the past few years.

In three seasons in Tempe, Scott started 28 games. He started four games at right tackle in 2020 and all 13 games in 2021. Last season, Scott was moved to center and he started 11 games.

Scott has been watchlisted for the Rimington Award and is primed for a strong final year in his college career in Lincoln.

Isaiah Garcia-Castaneda (Wide Receiver, Junior)

Isaiah Garcia-Castaneda (IGC) transferred to Nebraska last season from New Mexico State. He would play in four games before utilizing his redshirt season. IGC caught five passes for 120 yards and a touchdown.

Most would think, why is IGC a player to watch? Well, IGC is trending to be a starter in 2023 because of the loss of Zavier Betts, who left the team.

With that being said, IGC should get more of an opportunity to make some noise and is somebody to watch for a breakout season.

Main Image: Robert Goddin-USA TODAY Sports

Source

Previewing Notre Dame’s Week 1 Matchup With Navy

The game will take place on August 26th at Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Ireland.

This is the third time the teams are playing in Dublin, with the last meeting resulting in a 50-10 blowout for the Fighting Irish in 2012.

The season opener will be the 95th meeting between the two teams. Notre Dame has dominated the series, winning 79 out of 94 games, and five straight dating back to 2017. Last season, the Fighting Irish edged out Navy by a final score of 35-32 at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore.

Notre Dame enters this year’s matchup ranked number 13 after posting a 9-4 record a year ago.

The Fighting Irish will look a lot different this year with many coaches and players moving on to new teams in college and the pros including Tommy Rees (OC, Alabama), Michael Mayer (TE, Las Vegas Raiders), Isaiah Foskey (DE, New Orleans Saints), and Chris Smith (DT, Seattle Seahawks). They added Sam Hartman at quarterback and boast a strong roster on both sides of the football, especially at the offensive line position.

The Fighting Irish have a tough schedule including matchups with Ohio State, Pittsburgh, USC, and Clemson, but this team is built to win in 2023 with an impressive mix of young and experienced players on both sides of the ball. Expect Notre Dame to come out firing on all cylinders against Navy.

MORE: Best odds to win the CFP

Navy finished the 2022 campaign with a disappointing 4-8 record on the year.

The Midshipmen experienced a turnover in personnel this offseason. Some of the changes include the firing of longtime head coach Ken Niumatalolo after 15 seasons, the promotion of defensive coordinator Brian Newberry to head coach, and the hiring of Grant Chestnut as offensive coordinator, and Eric Lewis as the team’s safeties coach and passing game coordinator. The personnel changes are expected to change Navy’s offensive philosophy as the team will look to incorporate more passing plays and less option-heavy formations. This could work to Navy’s advantage against Notre Dame, as they will be unpredictable in their playcalling.

On the defensive side, the team possesses depth in the secondary, with Mbiti Williams the standout of the group. Williams finished last season, with 42 tackles, six pass deflections, and an interception and his veteran presence will be valuable for the rest of the unit. With a Notre Dame offense featuring a new quarterback and weapons, this Navy secondary has the chance to make some plays and disrupt Hartman’s debut.

Navy has a favorable schedule this season, with only one ranked opponent coming into the season (Notre Dame) and because of this, they have a chance to take a leap in the standings in 2023.

You can catch the 95th meeting between Notre Dame and Navy on CBS Sports at 2:30 pm on Saturday, August 26th. The game will also air on over 300 Westwood Affiliates and on SiriusXM Channel 84.

Source

Coach Matt Rhule brought in a whole new staff and it’s been shown that anybody can and will get playing time.

This coaching staff has a lot to work with for the amount of returning starters from last season. Coach Rhule and his staff also got a good transfer class and a good freshman from the 2023 class.

With that being said, here are the top five position groups for both sides of the ball for the 2023 season.

Ranking Nebraska’s Position Groups For 2023

Offense

5. Tight Ends

The tight end room is probably the weakest group for the offense only because of the lack of depth. The group includes sophomore Thomas Fidone, sophomore Nate Boerkicher and sophomore Arik Gilbert.

Fidone, out of Lewis Central in Council Bluffs, Iowa, was a top-three tight end in the 2021 recruiting class. Fidone was ranked higher than Georgia football star Brock Bowers coming out of high school.

Unfortunately, Fidone has dealt with injuries ever since he got to Lincoln. So, 2023 will be his first chance to capitalize on his potential.

Boerkicher is a former walk-on and should make an impact on the Huskers’ pass game in 2023. Boerkicher has the most game-time at Nebraska than the other two. So, expect him to have an impact.

Gilbert was a transfer portal addition for Rhule’s staff over the offseason. Gilbert was a five-star coming out of high school and was a top-10 recruit in the country. He started his career at LSU before transferring to Florida and then to Georgia.

4. Wide Receivers

The receiver has had a lot of turnover from last season. Nebraska is coming off of Trey Palmer’s record-breaking season. Unfortunately, he is in the NFL now.

The loss of Zavier Betts, who left the program, hurts but there is potential with who is on the roster. There is a veteran presence with seniors Marcus Washington and Billy Kemp IV. They are joined by junior Isaiah Garcia-Castenada as well.

There is a lot of youth within the position group as well. The freshman group is headlined by former Lincoln East Spartan Malachi Coleman, who has been making noise in fall camp.

The group is young but quarterback Jeff Sims has weapons around him at the receiver position.

3. Quarterbacks

Speaking of Jeff Sims, the quarterbacks are next. The losses of last season’s starters with Logan Smothers and Casey Thompson hurts but it opens the door for others.

It opens the door for Sims, sophomore Chubba Purdy and sophomore Heinrich Haarberg to get playing time.

I would expect that all three of them will get chances to get snaps this season but Sims will most likely be the starter for this upcoming season.

2. Offensive Line

The offensive line has been the subject of criticism over the past few years. Luckily it should be one of the best units on the offense in 2023. 

Veteran leadership should play a big role in the success of 2023. Senior center Ben Scott, a transfer from Arizona State, will be the leader of the offensive line this season. The edges will be protected by sophomore Teddy Prochazka and junior Bryce Benhart.

Coach Rhule has said in the past that Benhart has NFL talent and is aiming for a good 2023. 

The guards are headlined by seniors Ethan Piper and Nouredin Nouili.

1. Running Backs

The running back group should be the best on the offense and possibly on the entire team going into 2023. 

This position group is one of the deepest on the team and is led by senior Anthony Grant, who had the most starts from last season. There is also junior Rahmir Johnson, sophomore Gabe Ervin Jr, and even redshirt freshman Emmett Johnson. 

Offensive Coordinator Marcus Satterfield has said that it will be a “running back by committee” in 2023 and I would expect that everyone will be given a chance to get snaps. 

Defense

3. Defensive Line

The losses of Garrett Nelson, Ochaun Mathis, and Caleb Tannor hurts the position group as a whole. Despite this, there is a youth movement for this position. 

The additions of freshman Princewill Umanmielen and sophomore Elijah Jeudy from the transfer portal help out. The defensive line returns junior Ty Robinson, who was a starter last season, and junior Nash Hutmacher as well. 

With new defensive coordinator Tony White’s 3-3-5 defense, many players will get a chance to make an impact. 

2. Linebackers

One of the best positions on the team, headlined by senior Luke Reimer. Reimer has been the Blackshirts’ leading tackler for the past two seasons and will play a big role in 2023. 

Junior Nick Henrich is returning for another season after his 2022 was cut short with a season-ending injury. Coach Rhule’s staff also brought in two-time national champion, junior MJ Sherman from Georgia in the transfer portal. 

The linebackers should be primed for a successful 2023.

1. Defensive Backs

One of the deepest position groups on the team. New defensive back coach Evan Cooper has himself a very good group to work with. 

The cornerbacks or defensive backs are headlined by senior Quinton Newsome, junior Marques Buford Jr, sophomore Malcolm Hartzog, and junior Tommi Hill to name a few. 

The defensive backs will be the strong point for the Huskers in 2023 and will help the Blackshirts protect against the pass as well. 

Main Image: Robert Goddin-USA TODAY Sports

Source

College Football: 2023-24 National Championship Odds

Georgia (+220)

The Bulldogs come into this season losing 10 players to the NFL Draft and will bring in a new offensive coordinator, so why are they heavy favorites to three-peat? One answer, 2022. Last season, Georgia was forced to replace 15 players that went into the NFL draft as well as having to find a new defensive coordinator yet they dominated everyone to the tune of a 15-0 record while dismantling TCU in the big game. Kirby Smart has been in this position before yet we’ve seen him pluck talent and build even stronger than before and it’s believed he can do the same again this year.

It’s believed quarterback Carson Beck will be slated as the starter to go along with a deep receiving core, including tight end Brock Bowers, and a great offensive line that is projected to shine yet again this season. While they’ve lost talent on defense, the Bulldogs have talent from front to back end with one of the best linebacker groups around. While they still have positions to sort out, it’s not believed to hamper this team by any means. If Georgia won the title, it would be the first team to three-peat since Minnesota from 1934-36.

Alabama (+600)

An 11-2 record would get you praise for an unbelievable season but not for Alabama. In 2022, that record was deemed a big disappointment and their worst season since 2013, failing to miss the playoffs. I guess that’s what you get when a school like Alabama has more standards than just about any team in history. That being said, they have the second-best odds to win the National Championship and there’s a reason for that.

While the Crimson Tide will have to replace a Heisman Trophy finalist in Bryce Young under center, they have plenty of options in the quarterback room who could step in. There still being a battle at that position might be the reason people aren’t talking about this team AS much, but that’s when they’ll strike and show everyone not to doubt them again. But this all comes down to one man, head coach Nick Saban. I mean, he does know a thing or two about winning and scooting around “question marks” surrounding the team. Alabama has pilled up multiple pieces around multiple key positions for 2023 so pushing them aside might be a big mistake.

Ohio State (+700)

Like Georgia and Alabama, Ohio State will come into 2023 with a new man under center after C.J. Stroud moved into the next level. Also like the two schools ahead of them, they’re still trying to figure out who that will be, whether it’s Kyle McCord (likely starter) or Devin Brown. Either way, one of those two will be flanked by yet another deep and talented receiving at Ohio State, led by Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egubuka.

The Buckeyes also sport great talent on the other side of the ball, having a deep defensive line filled with pro talent. They also bring back All-American linebacker Tommy Eichenberg in addition to more pieces at the position and at cornerback. Let’s not forget that last year, Ryan Day had Ohio State one point away from dethroning Georgia in the College Football Playoff and advancing to the National Championship Game. This program has multiple chips on their shoulder and they do so coming in with still one of the best overall rosters in the nation.

Michigan (+850)

Michigan is the first team on this list not to have to replace their starting quarterback for 2023. J.J. McCarthy returns as the signal-caller alongside the great backfield duo of Blake Corum and Donovan Edwards. Having those three return to the fray after going 13-0 last year and making the College Football Playoff could already give them a leg up in the competition. They also boast an offensive line loaded with talent all around.

While the defensive side of the ball is still trying to be figured out with a couple of big pieces leaving, there’s plenty of talent around to have confidence in that group. Also, we’re talking about Michigan, a team known for their defense above anything else with coach Jim Harbaugh. The Wolverines also have a chip on their shoulder after getting upset by TCU in the playoff last year and it could actually help them take the next step in 2023.

Next Best Odds:

LSU (+1100)
USC (+1400)
Clemson (+1800)
Florida State (+1800)
Texas (+2200)
Penn State (+2500)
Notre Dame (+3000)
Tennessee (+3500)
Oregon (+3500)

Main Image: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Source

After firing former head coach Bo Pelini (2008-2014) after seven seasons of nine wins or better, Nebraska hired former Oregon State Head Coach Mike Riley (2015-2017).

Year one under Mike Riley was an overall disappointing year for Nebraska, finishing the regular season 5-7. 2015 was plagued by close losses for the Huskers, with six of the seven losses by only one score.

Despite this, Nebraska would be selected to play in the Foster Farms Bowl against UCLA. The Huskers would go on and get the upset 37-29

After capping off the season with a good win, there was hope of building off of the close losses in the season prior.

That brings us to the last time Nebraska had a winning season.

A Look Into the Past: 2016 Nebraska Football

Top Players on Offense and Defense

The Cornhuskers’ offense would be headlined by senior quarterback Tommie Armstrong Jr. Armstrong is Nebraska’s all-time leader in passing yards with 8,871 yards. His top receiver was senior wide receiver, Jordan Westerkamp.

Joining Armstrong in the backfield were senior running back Terrell Newby and sophomore Devine Ozigbo.

On defense, senior linebacker Josh Banderas led the team in tackles with 93 total including seven being for a loss. Banderas wasn’t alone! Senior safety Nathan Gerry racked up 74 total tackles including seven for a loss as well.

Week 1 and 2

Nebraska faced off against the Fresno State Bulldogs in the Huskers’ home opener.

This game would be remembered forever when over 90,000 fans came together to honor the Huskers’ fallen punter Sam Foltz, who died in July of 2016. After Nebraska went three-and-out on the first drive, they lined up in punt formation with only 10 players and no punter.

Nebraska would be charged with a delay-of-game penalty but Fresno State would decline the penalty in remembrance.

Nebraska would go on and blow out Fresno State 43-10 after a slow start. The Huskers would accumulate 292 rushing yards on 51 attempts.

Nebraska would take on the Wyoming Cowboys next. The Cowboys were coached by former Husker Craig Bohl (2014-present). Craig Bohl was a defensive back for Nebraska from 1977-1979 and was an assistant coach from 1995-2002 before taking the head coaching job at North Dakota State.

Nebraska would cruise to a big victory over Wyoming 52-17, riding off on a strong second half. The Huskers’ defense would pick off Wyoming’s freshman quarterback Josh Allen five times. Yes, the same Josh Allen that is the starting quarterback for the Buffalo Bills. 

The first games would help prepare the Huskers as they would get the honor of hosting the 22nd-ranked Oregon Ducks next.

Oregon

Oregon and Nebraska faced off in a fantastic week three matchup. The game was the 350th consecutive sellout and Coach Riley had a seven-game losing streak against Oregon.

Oregon was only a season off of an appearance in the first College Football Playoff and was looking to get back there.

The Ducks would go up 20-7 with less than three minutes to go in the first half and things weren’t looking good for Nebraska. The Huskers would turn it around with a touchdown right before the half to make it 20-14.

That touchdown would spark a comeback for the Huskers and they would be up 28-20 in the third quarter. Armstrong dealt with cramping all game and went out after a tough hit.

Oregon would score 12 straight to go up 32-28 in the fourth and after a stop, Nebraska would get the ball back for the most important drive of the game.

Despite being hurt, Armstrong put the offense on his back and scored on a 34-yard run to put the Huskers up 35-32. Nebraska would go on and stop the Duck’s offense and come out victorious.

Big Ten Play

20th-ranked Nebraska would start Big Ten play in Evanston to take on Northwestern.

Nebraska had a shaky first half after two turnovers near the goal line but would turn around and take over in the second half winning 24-13.

Nebraska strengthen its position in the AP Poll with their win over Northwestern and would be boosted up to No. 15.

Nebraska would return to Lincoln to take on Illinois.

The Illini wouldn’t make it easy. The 15th-ranked Huskers would be down 16-10 going into the fourth quarter and Illinois was looking for the upset. Senior Terrell Newby had a different idea.

The senior running back would rush for 113 of his 140 yards and score two touchdowns in the final quarter. This would allow the Huskers to avoid the upset and win 31-16 over Illinois. 

Sitting at 5-0 going into the bye was hinting at something Nebraska hadn’t done since 2012. They were challenging for a berth into the Big Ten Championship.

Nebraska was in the top ten for the first time since 2011 and needed to have solid performances against Indiana and Purdue to establish themselves as legit contenders.

Nebraska would hold on against Indiana 27-22 and then rely on a strong second half once again to finish off Purdue 27-14.

After underperforming against two mid-level Big Ten opponents, Nebraska still had to prove itself to the country.

Wisconsin and Ohio State

No. 7 Nebraska was sitting 7-0 and was heading into the most important stretch of the season. Two road games against No. 11 Wisconsin and No. 6 Ohio State. If they were able to get through that, Nebraska could be challenging for a berth into the College Football Playoff.

All of that would slip away.

Nebraska would keep it close with Wisconsin in the second half and tied the game to force it into overtime. Wisconsin scored first but missed the PAT, opening the door for the Huskers to get the win.

Unfortunately, the Badgers’ defense would swat any chances away and Nebraska fell 17-23.

This was only a warmup as they would have to go to the Horseshoe the next week to take on the sixth-ranked Buckeyes.

In the second quarter, Armstrong scrambled out of the pocket and would be hit out of bounds. The hit briefly knocked Armstrong unconscious and several trainers and physicians rushed to his aid. He would be carted off the field on a stretcher and taken to a local hospital.

Armstrong would return to the sidelines in the second half out of uniform to support his team.

J.T. Barrett and Ohio State’s offense would dominate the Huskers all game, winning 62-3 accumulating 590 total yards on offense.

Final Three Weeks

After a rough two weeks on the road, they would return home to take on Minnesota. Despite the events of the week before, Armstrong would start for the Nebraska offense. 

No. 19 Nebraska was down 10-17 at half once again for the fourth straight week.

Armstrong would put the team on his back and lead the comeback. They would hold the Gophers under 100 total yards and allowed no points in the second half in a victory 24-17. 

Maryland was the next opponent for the Huskers. Senior quarterback Ryker Fyfe would replace the injured Armstrong and he helped lead the Huskers to a 28-7 win over the Terrapins. 

The final week in the regular season was here and Nebraska took on their annual Black Friday opponent, the Iowa Hawkeyes. The Hawkeyes took the victory in the Hero’s Game the year before in Lincoln and Nebraska looked to take the trophy back to Lincoln.

The complete opposite happened. Armstrong returned not fully 100 percent and the defense wasn’t good either. The Iowa Hawkeyes controlled the entire game, winning 40-14. 

The loss would unfortunately knock the Huskers out of Big Ten title contention but getting nine wins was a big step forward from the five wins from the season before. 

The Huskers would get the invite to play in the Franklin American Mortgage Music City Bowl in Nashville and take on the 21st-ranked Tennessee Volunteers. 

Bowl Week

The Volunteers were led by senior quarterback Joshua Dobbs, junior running back Alvin Kamara, and junior linebacker Derek Barnett. All three would be selected in the 2017 NFL Draft and weren’t the only future NFL players on the roster. 

The Huskers were without Armstrong in the bowl game and Fyfe would get the start in his final game as a Cornhusker. 

Both teams were held scoreless through the first quarter but Tennessee would strike first going up 14-0 halfway through the second quarter. Nebraska would finally get on the board with less than two minutes to go in the half. Dobbs would run it in for a touchdown for Tennessee in the final seconds of the first half to go up 21-7. 

Once again Nebraska was down at halftime and would have to rely on a strong second half. The Huskers’ defense would only allow a field goal in the third quarter and the Huskers would only be down 14-24 going into the fourth quarter. 

Despite allowing a rushing touchdown by Dobbs early in the fourth quarter, Nebraska would get it within one score with 10 minutes to go. 

The Nebraska defense would then allow a 59-yard touchdown pass from Dobbs to junior receiver Josh Malone. Tennessee was able to hold off Nebraska and get the win 38-24. 

The Impact

The loss in Nashville was a very disappointing way to end the season. The 2016 season was full of potential, especially starting 7-0 and being ranked in the top ten. 

There was hope of returning to that same glory that Nebraska had in the 1990s and getting back to national prominence. 

Unfortunately, that has yet to happen. Nebraska wasn’t able to build off of a successful 2016 in 2017, finishing 4-8. Coach Riley would be fired after a 56-14 loss to Iowa. 

Former Husker quarterback Scott Frost would be hired to lead the Huskers after a successful head coaching stint at UCF. 

There was hope that Coach Frost would bring Nebraska back to the promised land but after four straight losing seasons and starting 1-2 last season, he would be fired. 

Now with Head Coach Matt Rhule leading the Huskers, there is hope that he can bring Nebraska back to the postseason. 

If that becomes true, there is no doubt that Coach Rhule can help return the Nebraska Cornhuskers back to national prominence.

Source

I am really curious about who will be named the starter at Alabama in Week 1 and how they play throughout the year. I believe multiple quarterbacks will play in Week 1, but it is too early to tell.

Back-to-back defending champions, the Georgia Bulldogs, have a new face at quarterback in Carson Beck. It will be weird not seeing Stetson Bennett take the field for Georgia in 2023, but how good is Carson Beck?

With some new faces and old veterans taking the field at quarterback, here is how I would rank the top five SEC quarterbacks heading into the 2023 season

The Top 5 Quarterbacks in the SEC in 2023

5. Jaxson Dart, Ole Miss

A year ago, Jaxson Dart was subpar at best and he never really got it going. I expect him to take a huge jump in year two at Ole Miss. Dart is heading into his second year in the Lane Kiffin offense and with a running back like Quinshon Judkins, there is a lot less pressure and allows Dart to play more freely. Any quarterback in the Kiffin system will have success, but Jaxson Dart has a chance to shock a lot of people in 2023.

4. KJ Jefferson, Arkansas

K.J. Jefferson is a veteran guy and you know what to expect from him. The question is, can Jefferson stay healthy? He was supposed to be one of the best quarterbacks in the SEC a year ago, but injuries kind of derailed his and the Razorbacks seasons. If Jefferson can stay healthy, I can see him living up to the hype and being one of the best quarterbacks in the league. 

3. Jayden Daniels, LSU

We watched Jayden Daniels grow up before our eyes a year ago. From the beginning of the season to the end, Daniels continued to get better and proved to everybody that he is more than capable of playing in the SEC. Even with all the hype surrounding Daniels and the LSU Tigers, I am still not completely sold on Daniels. With some new faces in the wide receiver room and a really good running back room, he will need to continue to get better. However you want to look at this, Jayden Daniels is still a top-10 quarterback in the country. 

2. Joe Milton, Tennessee

The biggest quarterback wildcard in the SEC, and maybe even in the country, is by far Joe Milton. If Milton plays as well as he did to end the season a year ago, the whole country better watch out. Milton has insane athleticism and skill, if he can put it all together he could be one to watch out for in the Heisman race. The problem is, if he comes out and struggles early on and is missing receivers, then things could go downhill quickly in Knoxville. I believe Milton has improved immensely, and he will prove a ton of people wrong in 2023.

1. Will Rogers, Mississippi State

Will Rogers is the most underrated player in college football and it is not even close. Rogers holds the SEC record in career completions at 1,159 and still has a season to play. Will Rogers is seen as a system quarterback but he is much more than an “Air-Raid” quarterback. Rogers has thrown more than thirty touchdowns and has thrown less than ten interceptions. I feel like if Will Rogers was on any other team in the country, he would be talked about more and would be a legit Heisman contender. 

Main Image: Matt Pendleton-USA TODAY Sports

Source

The Thursday night matchup will be the first Big Ten game of the season and should set the tone for the season for both sides.

Here is a preview of the 2023 Minnesota Golden Gophers:

Know The Foe: Minnesota

Review of 2022

Before previewing 2023, let’s start with last season. 2022 was somewhat of a successful season for the Gophers, winning nine games and finishing fourth in the Big Ten West.

Minnesota was able to get big road victories against Michigan State, Nebraska, and Wisconsin. Despite this, losses to Purdue, Illinois, and Iowa would keep them out of the conference title game.

Senior quarterback Tanner Morgan started the first half of the season until getting injured in the Illinois game in week seven. Then here comes redshirt freshman Athan Kaliakmanis.

After a tough game in his first start at Penn State, Kaliakmanis would lead a comeback against Nebraska. Kaliakmanis started the last three games, winning two of three including a big win at Wisconsin.

In his last year at Minnesota, Mohamed Ibrahim led the Gophers’ offense with over 1600 yards and 20 touchdowns on the ground. Ibrahim became the career rushing leader for Minnesota in the final game of his college career in the Pinstripe Bowl against Syracuse.

The Gophers’ defense was very solid, finishing fourth in scoring defense in the country. The defense was led by linebacker Mariano Sori-Marin, who accumulated 88 total tackles over 13 games.

2023 Positional Outlook

Minnesota has to replace two four-year starters on offense with quarterback Tanner Morgan and running back Mohamed Ibrahim. Minnesota already has Morgan’s replacement on the roster with Kaliakmanis.

Minnesota went out into the portal and picked up senior running back Sean Tyler from Western Michigan. Tyler has two 1,000-yard seasons under his belt and will be a top option in the backfield. Senior Bryce Williams will also be an option for the Gophers.

The Gophers have the leading receiver from last season with junior Daniel Jackson returning for another season. They lost Mike Brown-Stephens and Dylan Wright to the transfer portal. To make up for that, they attacked the portal and landed transfers, senior Corey Crooms (Western Michigan) and junior Elijah Spencer (Charlotte). 

Defensively, Minnesota returns six starters from 2022. The defense will be headlined by sophomore linebacker Cody Lindenberg and senior safety Tyler Nubin. Both were top-five tacklers in 2022 and should be primed for a good 2023. 

What Will 2023 Entail for Minnesota?

With one of the most difficult schedules in the Big Ten, Minnesota will have to start strong. After the aforementioned matchup in week one, the Gophers take on Eastern Michigan before going on the road to Chapel Hill to take on North Carolina. 

Minnesota gets Michigan State, Michigan, and Ohio State as their East Division opponents, which is a tough get for them. 

2023 will be a tough season for Minnesota but with the potential of Kaliakmanis as a quarterback and deep wide receiver room, it could go well. 

Week 1 Matchup Preview

Before we get too ahead of ourselves, we got to get through Week 1 first. 

Minnesota has won the last four matchups between Nebraska but the last three have been decided by one score. Last season, Nebraska had the lead 10-0 going into the half but Minnesota held the Huskers to only three points in the second half. Kaliakmanis lead the comeback and the Gophers held off Nebraska 20-13 in Lincoln. 

Minnesota opens as a touchdown favorite to win “The $5 Bits of Broken Chair Trophy” against the Huskers. 

Can Nebraska end the losing streak and Matt Rhule gets his first big win? We will find out on Thursday, Aug. 31 at 7:00 pm. 

Main Image: Robert Goddin-USA TODAY Sports

Source

Even if it is one of the smallest groups in the nation, CUSA has a few teams worth keeping an eye on at the top. Can the two FCS-to-FBS jumps experience the same level of success James Madison had in the Sun Belt? Who knows! But one thing is for sure, this conference will be fun to watch!

Disclaimer: “Easiest” or “Hardest” is not to mean “these teams will beat those on their schedule.” It could be a fact that the worst team in a conference could have the easiest non-conference schedule and also not be able to win any. These rankings will be based on the average preseason ranking between three major outlets: Phill Steele, Athlon, and College Football Nation. There will at least be a little factual standing behind these rather than ranking based on bias and vibes.

The 5 Hardest 2023 Conference USA Non-Conference Schedules

5. Florida International: Maine (FCS), North Texas, at UCONN, at Arkansas

Last year: 4-8 overall, 2-2 OOC

The Panthers were looking like they were about to take a step in 2023. Then both starting tackles transferred and star running back Lexington Joseph was lost for the year due to a torn ACL. Both guards and quarterback Grayson James return and based on the offensive line play, FIU could be better this year.

After hosting Maine (FCS), the Panthers host CUSA defector to the AAC, North Texas. The Mean Green look like they will be better in 2023 despite jumping to a tougher conference. Nine of their 11 offensive starters return with ULM transfer Chandler Rogers at the helm. They’ll be surprising in the AAC and will be one worth keeping an eye on.

Jim Mora kicks off his second season at what was one of the worst FBS programs. They made it to a bowl last year and will be getting back 14 starters including sophomore running back Victor Rosa who broke off 636 yards and five touchdowns as a freshman. Defensively, their entire front line returns as does most of the secondary.

Lastly, FIU travels to Arkansas in mid-November because SEC. Snark aside, Arkansas looks to be a solid team this fall led by K.J. Jefferson and Raheim Sanders. The duo is one of the best in the nation and will be a massive headache for the FIU defense.

4. Jacksonville State: East Tennessee State (FCS), at Coastal Carolina, Eastern Michigan, at South Carolina

Last year: 9-2 overall, 4-2 OOC

Welcome to the FBS, Jacksonville State, and welcome back, Rich Rodriguez! After taking down a pair of ranked foes in 2022, the Gamecocks turn their attention to the CUSA. They’ll be led with plenty of experience but none more than seventh-year quarterback, Zion Webb. He’s been battling injuries but he threw for 1,737 yards and 10 touchdowns and ran for 647 yards and 13 touchdowns. He’s a playmaker and does well in Rodriguez’s offense. They will need to improve on defense, however.

After hosting current FCS foe East Tennessee State, Jacksonville State travels to Coastal Carolina. There’s been a coaching change but the three-time Sun Belt Player of the Year returns. Grayson McCall jumped into the Transfer Portal but ended up coming back and it’s been the biggest win for the Chanticleers this offseason. His top receiver, Sam Pinckney, returns after posting a season with 996 yards and three touchdowns.

A lowkey interesting MAC program is Eastern Michigan. They bring back stud running back Samson Evans and his 1,166 yards and 15 touchdowns from last year. They’re described as dirty and mean in Athlon’s yearly program and having eight returning starters is going to help that. The Eagles are a popular pick to surprise in the MAC and will contend with Toledo for the West division.

South Carolina may not be the premier SEC program but they’re still going to be solid in the fall. Spencer Rattler leads the offense with his high-risk, high-reward play. His ceiling is a first-round NFL talent but his floor is leading SC to a disappointing season. They took down Clemson last year, 31-30, for the first time since 2013. This will be a true Gamecock fight.

3. Sam Houston State: at BYU, Air Force, at Houston, Kennesaw State (FCS)

Last year: 5-4 overall, 2-2 OOC

Sam Houston State faces three very solid FBS programs this year. The 2021 Spring Season National Champions have been solid at the FCS level. Their defense will be ready to roll but the offense will have to take a step if they want to go bowling.

There was a thought to put these newbies at the top of this list but BYU is a wild card. Over the last three years, they’ve won 29 games and were one of the premier non-Power 5 programs of late. Kedon Slovis is on his third life and could be a solid addition with four years of experience quarterbacking P5 teams. And, on the other side, the defense was awful last year.

A trip to Air Force could be a difficult one for the Bearkats. That triple-option attack is about as nasty as any and it only gets nastier when four starters on the offensive line return. Not to mention the seven returning starters on a defense that was third in the nation with only 13.4 points per game allowed.

Finally, another AAC-to-Big 12 defector, Houston is going to be replacing a few playmakers but they will still be able to tread water in their new conference. While I was incredibly wrong about them, Houston was still good. Donovan Smith, the Texas Tech transfer, is the favorite to take over and play behind four returning starting offensive linemen.

Also, a note: Kennesaw State (FCS) is going to get a taste of Conference USA here. They’ll be joining the conference next year.

2. Western Kentucky: South Florida, Houston Christian (FCS), at Ohio State, at Troy

Last year: 9-5 overall, 2-3 OOC

Who led the FBS in passing last year? Caleb Williams? C.J. Stroud? Nope, it was none other than Austin Reed, the Hilltoppers’ quarterback. In his first year at the FBS level, Reed threw for 4,746 yards and 40 touchdowns. His top receiver returns in Malachi Corley and this offense is ready to take it to the next level.

To start, the Hilltoppers shouldn’t have much to worry about with USF coming to town. Over the last 34 games against FBS-level foes, the Bulls have lost 33. Additionally, Houston Christian (FCS) should not be much trouble.

Then, for the first time in history, WKU faces off against Ohio State. The Buckeyes are currently favored as not only one of the best in the Big Ten but one of the best in the nation. Offensively, they’ll be led by a deep running back corps as well as the two best receivers in the nation. They worked to improve their weakness in the secondary but Reed and Corley may have an opportunity to work some magic.

Finally, the Sun Belt sends Troy for a battle of two of the best that the Group of 5 has to offer. The Trojans won the Sun Belt en route to a 12-win season. The concerning part for WKU? Most of that production returns. Last year, Troy won this matchup, 34-27. It’s going to be another classic this year.

1. Middle Tennessee State: at Alabama, at Missouri, Murray State (FCS), Colorado State

Last year: 8-5 overall, 3-1 OOC

If the Blue Raiders are going to have any success in 2023, it’ll be on the back of the defense. Middle Tennessee State returns eight starters on defense. They’re coming off of back-to-back bowl wins but they’ll have to replace a lot on offense. Running back Frank Peasant will lead the way with his 777 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns. Unfortunately, they have the hardest non-conference slate from Conference USA.

To kick it off, they travel to Alabama. Sure, the Tide hasn’t won it all since 2020 and the sky is falling, but Alabama is still Alabama. They are expected to contend yet again and make the CFP but the quarterback situation is an interesting one. Nick Saban has a real choice on his hands. Given the success at the position in his time, there’s reason to be concerned as a Blue Raider.

SEC after SEC, although Missouri isn’t one of the premier programs. However, they have a few offensive weapons worth keeping an eye on. Mookie Cooper looks to finally get his shot and Luther Burden is well worth the hype. Eight starters return on defense, to the Tigers will have strength via continuity.

After playing host to Murray State (FCS), Colorado State comes to town. Head Coach Jay Norvell is in his second season with the Rams and he leads a young team into the fray. Sophomore Clay Millen was beaten half to death getting sacked 59 times. Despite that, he led the nation with a 72.2 completion percentage. This team struggled last year but they’ll be better in the MWC in 2023.

This is Conference USA

The conference itself seems a bit top-heavy but it is full of playmakers. Despite being considered one of the worst in the nation, there are a few programs worth tuning into. CUSA is often where FCS teams get to transition to the FBS level before potentially moving to a larger conference.

We are just getting started here at LWOSports. Next, we will take a look at the Mountain West’s non-conference foes.

Main Image: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports

Source

For Nebraska, it’s the first year of a new era in Lincoln with Matt Rhule taking over as head coach for the football program. 2023 offers many different challenges that will show the Cornhusker faithful what Rhule brings to the table. 

The 2023 schedule gives many different storylines and implications for every opponent. 

Here are the most important games for Nebraska in 2023:

Most Important Games for Nebraska in the 2023 Season

5. At Wisconsin (Week 12)

There is a lot to say about the off-season for both Nebraska and Wisconsin. Both went out and hired top-name head coaches. Rhule and Luke Fickell get to face off in year one in Madison in a late-season matchup.

Last season, Nebraska fell short, 15-14, to the Badgers at home despite leading 14-3 going into the fourth quarter. History isn’t on Nebraska’s side either as they haven’t won in Madison since 1966 and Wisconsin is on a nine-game winning streak in the series.

It begs the question. Can Nebraska get over the hump and get the road victory or will history repeat itself in Madison?

4. Michigan (Week 5)

This Week 5 matchup between Nebraska and Michigan is important for not only Nebraska but Michigan. The game in Lincoln will serve as the Wolverines’ first test of 2023 and Michigan Head Coach Jim Harbaugh’s first game back from his four-week suspension.

Michigan will serve as a tough matchup for Nebraska will all of the star power on the Wolverines side. Junior quarterback JJ McCarthy and senior running back Blake Corum lead a top offense in the Big Ten.

In 2022, Michigan handled Nebraska at home 34-3 but Nebraska held them to only 24 points going into the 4th. The last time Nebraska played Michigan at home was in 2021 when it went down to the wire. Unfortunately for the Cornhuskers, Michigan got the win 31-28.

Nebraska could spark an upset in Matt Rhule’s first matchup against one of the perennial powerhouses in the Big Ten.

3. Iowa (Week 13)

Iowa and Nebraska have been playing on Black Friday every year since Nebraska joined the Big Ten back in 2011. The Hero’s Game has been turning into a real rivalry after Nebraska ended a seven-game losing streak against Iowa last season.

For the past 10 seasons, Iowa has dominated the rivalry, winning eight out of the last 10 matchups.

This year’s game is very important for both sides as it could play a big role in how the Big Ten West finishes. It could be also Nebraska’s first chance to defeat Iowa at Memorial Stadium since 2011.

With Nebraska finally ending the losing streak last season, it will give them even more of a reason to keep the trophy in Lincoln.

2. At Colorado (Week 2)

The Colorado Buffaloes were all over the off-season headlines when they hired Deion Sanders, former head coach at Jackson State and NFL Hall of Fame member.

Colorado has a loaded schedule in 2023 including a renewal of the historical rivalry between Nebraska in Week 2. The rivalry dates back to 1898 but the two programs played every year from 1948 to 2010.

The last time Nebraska played the Buffaloes was back in 2019 in Boulder when Nebraska lost in a heartbreaker 34-31 in overtime.

Can Nebraska spoil Coach Sanders’ first game in Boulder or will Colorado extend their win streak over Nebraska to three? It will be decided on Sept. 7 at 10:00 am.

1. At Minnesota (Week 1)

Rhule’s first-ever game as head coach at Nebraska would of course be the most important game of the season. Unfortunately, his first appearance will be in Minneapolis against the Minnesota Golden Gophers.

Winning or losing this game will set the tone for the season, especially against a division opponent on a Thursday night.

Head Coach PJ Fleck is entering his seventh season at Minnesota and is one of the most experienced coaches in the Big Ten West. A win for the Cornhuskers in this game could make a difference in the expectations of the Cornhusker faithful.

The Huskers have a lot to prove and this opener could help convey what Matt Rhule has to offer at Nebraska.

Source