U of M vs Nebraska: Big Ten Opener With Big Statement Written All Over It
Week 3 brought wins for both Michigan (63-3 over Central Michigan) and Nebraska (59-7 over Houston Christian), but step into Week 4, and the real test begins. For both programs, this isn’t just another non-conference matchup — it’s a chance to make a statement as Big Ten play kicks off.
Last Week’s Recaps & the Road Test
Michigan rolled Central Michigan behind freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood, who passed for over 230 yards and ran for more than 100, adding two rushing touchdowns. The Wolverines imposed their will on the ground and through the air, looking every bit like a top-25 team. Nebraska, meanwhile, overwhelmed Houston Christian 59-7, with Dylan Raiola putting together another efficient performance while the Huskers’ defense smothered the opposition.
The trip to Lincoln marks Michigan’s second road game of the season, following an earlier clash at Oklahoma. Memorial Stadium is famously tough on visiting teams, and for a true freshman quarterback, it’s another major test.
QB Matchup & National Rankings
Dylan Raiola has been one of the nation’s most efficient quarterbacks through three weeks. He’s completing well over 70 percent of his throws, hasn’t turned the ball over, and already has multiple touchdown strikes on his résumé. Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule said this week, “He’s calm, he’s composed, and he’s making the right decisions. That’s exactly what you want from your quarterback heading into conference play.”
For Michigan, Bryce Underwood has lived up to the hype as a dual threat. His arm strength and poise are well ahead of what you’d expect from a freshman, and his running ability adds a second dimension. Offensive coordinator Brian Lindgren praised Underwood’s maturity, noting, “The game doesn’t feel too big for him. He’s learning every week, and you can see the confidence growing.”
Sherrone Moore’s Status & Coaching Angle
Head coach Sherrone Moore is still serving a two-game suspension, leaving assistant Biff Poggi to guide the Wolverines on the sideline. Moore’s absence adds an element of intrigue — can Michigan maintain its rhythm in a hostile road environment without its head coach present? How Poggi manages critical decisions could play a role in the outcome.
Weather, Odds & Vegas View
- Weather in Lincoln: Ideal football conditions are expected — low-70s at kickoff, partly cloudy skies, and light winds.
- Vegas line: Michigan is a narrow favorite, hovering around −2. The over/under sits in the mid-40s, suggesting oddsmakers expect a competitive, lower-scoring battle.
Notable Storylines
- Road grit: Michigan is tested on the road again early in the year. How Underwood responds to another hostile environment will be telling.
- Quarterback duel: Raiola vs. Underwood — both were high-profile recruits, both are future faces of the Big Ten, and both get a stage to prove it this weekend.
- Line play: Nebraska’s front has looked tough, but Michigan’s offensive line depth will need to hold without Moore on the sideline.
- Momentum builder: Michigan could validate its ranking with a road win, while Nebraska could stamp its return to national relevance by knocking off a top-25 opponent.
Prediction
This one feels like a true Big Ten slugfest. Michigan’s talent gives them the edge, but Nebraska at home with Raiola playing clean football is no small challenge. Expect a tight game into the fourth quarter, with this game being a complete toss-up.
Prediction: Nebraska 31, Michigan 30
