Today on Hurrdat Sports Radio, Sam McKewon of the Omaha World-Hearld joins hosts Ravi Lulla and Damon Benning to dive into Nebraska football’s bowl game victory over Boston College. Playing under challenging weather conditions, the bowl game highlighted Nebraska’s resilience and ability to adapt, even with key players absent.
Dominating the Line of Scrimmage
The wet and cold environment forced both teams to rely heavily on their physicality. McKewon emphasizes how Nebraska excelled in these conditions, winning the battle in the trenches. Despite missing several top pass rushers who had entered the transfer portal, Nebraska’s defensive line held firm. Ty Robinson’s increased snap count and standout performances from players like M.J. Sherman were pivotal.
“Winning the line of scrimmage was essential in this game,” McKewon notes. He praises the young defensive players stepping up, including Vincent Shavers, Donovan Jones and Riley Van Poppel, who showcased the future promise of Nebraska’s defense.
Promising Future for Nebraska’s Defense
McKewon expresses optimism about Nebraska’s defensive potential moving forward. While replacing Robinson will be challenging, the emergence of young talent like Jones — who impressed in his first significant playing time — indicates a bright future.
“The young guys on defense were flying around and making plays,” McKewon says, adding that this could signal continued defensive strength, although there could be some growing pains as these players gain experience.
Offensive Adjustments Prove Key
Offensively, Nebraska adapted well to the rainy and wet weather conditions. Offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen shifted to a more conservative game plan, focusing on intermediate passing and runs between the hashes. McKewon applauds this adaptability, emphasizing its importance in the Big Ten, where weather often dictates strategy.
Running back Kwinten Ives and veteran back Rahmir Johnson carried the load in the absence of Dante Dowdell. Johnson’s pivotal fourth-and-one conversion late in the game illustrated Nebraska’s ability to rely on depth and toughness in critical moments.
Building Toward 2025
McKewon highlights the importance of these experiences for the young players, particularly as Nebraska prepares for next season. An early matchup against Cincinnati and then a Big Ten Opener against Michigan will test the Huskers’ ability to build on their late-season success. Depth and continued development on both sides of the ball, especially at linebacker and defensive line, will be crucial.
For Nebraska fans, this victory serves as a reminder of the program’s upward trajectory. The Huskers’ ability to overcome adversity and perform under pressure bodes well for their competitiveness in the Big Ten.
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