Nebraska drew extensive criticism for being the first school to push the Big Ten to play in 2020, though that criticism subsided when Ohio State joined in the push. The Cornhuskers got their wish and then had to endure a third consecutive losing season under Scott Frost, their fourth overall. Beyond that, the program hasn't been consistently relevant nationally in 20-plus years. Even so, Frost remains optimistic. Once again, the Huskers have lost their leading receiver, Wan'Dale Robinson, to the transfer portal, after JD Spielman left following the 2019 season. Another wide receiver, Kade Warner, also left during the offseason. Though he caught only five passes, Warner was a co-captain, a reflection of his leadership, not just among receivers but on the team as a whole. That's a concern. Frost's reputation is built around the offense, but the defense might help define Nebraska as it tries to climb back to relevance.
Final Analysis
A special element of the schedule was lost; the Huskers will open against Illinois in Champaign instead of in Dublin, Ireland, as originally planned. They will renew a storied rivalry with a non-conference game at Oklahoma. With a schedule back-loaded with home games — four of the last five and six of the last eight — Nebraska should be able to fashion a .500 record, at least.
Predicted Record (From magazine): 6-6 (4-5 Big Ten)
