Humiliated Huskers Slotted 11th in Media Preseason Poll
Nebraska was pegged to finish 11th in the 2026 Big Ten preseason media poll, marking a stark drop from the glory days of five national championships. Despite improving to bowl eligibility twice under Matt Rhule, the Huskers have gone just 10–17 in conference play since 2023. Analysts point to a deep Big Ten lineup—featuring Ohio State, Oregon, Indiana and Michigan—that leaves Nebraska toward the bottom tier. While Rhule enters his fourth year aiming to surpass expectations, beaten-down fans see an uphill battle against a schedule ranked 21st hardest by ESPN’s FPI and six teams projected to finish above them.
If disappointment were an Olympic sport, Nebraska would be favored to win gold. The Cornhuskers’ ranking at 11th feels less like a preseason prediction and more like a public service announcement: “Don’t get your hopes up.” Matt Rhule’s crusade to restore Big Red glory resembles someone trying to refill the Grand Canyon with a teaspoon. With conference foes stacking trophies higher than a Vegas buffet, NU might need a time machine or a three-point miracle to dial back expectations to something resembling optimism.
Secondary Shake-Up: Will New DB Scheme Cure the Blackshirts?
Defensive coordinator Rob Aurich’s switch from a 3-3-5 to a 4-2-5 has Nebraska fans wondering if the revamped secondary can reverse a 2025 slump. The Huskers ranked third in pass defense but a miserable 100th against the run, prompting an overhaul of coaches and tactics. Returning talent like Rex Guthrie and transfer stars Justyn Rhett and Jasin Shiggs bolster the backfield, even as NFL departures and portal losses leave gaps. Cornhusker insiders anticipate growing pains as rookies and veterans learn Aurich’s system, hoping the DB room can regain Big Ten dominance.
When your pass defense is a top-ten cinch but your rush defense resembles a sieve, you bring in a new recipe. Nebraska’s coaching staff apparently shopped at the Football Home Improvement aisle and found a 4-2-5 kit—complete with DIY instructions. Sure, the defense might eventually hold water, but first they’ll have to master the art of not tripping over their own cleats. If this offseason shopping spree doesn’t pan out, maybe Matt Rhule can rent a motivational speaker—or a stronger running back.
Big Man Ambitions: Sam Orme’s Mid-Major to Big Ten Jump
Belmont transfer Sam Orme, a 6’10” redshirt junior, joins Nebraska’s revamped roster aiming to translate his efficient mid-major scoring into Big Ten success. Orme posted 12.7 points per game on 56% shooting last season, drilled nearly 40% from deep, and thrived in Belmont’s spacing offense. Fred Hoiberg lauds his versatility and shooting touch after a standout scrimmage. As Nebraska reloads following a Sweet 16 run, Orme must adapt to the physicality and speed of conference play, joining a group of sharpshooters in Lincoln.
College basketball’s answer to Goldilocks—the shooter who always wants just the right look—has landed in Lincoln hoping the Big Ten’s porridge isn’t too hot. Orme’s smooth jumper might singe defenders unused to facing mid-major mercenaries in title contention. Of course, the real challenge isn’t the opponent but explaining to fans that “we’re rebuilding” after a Sweet 16—like telling them you’re on a diet while holding a dozen doughnuts. If Sam can keep drilling triples, Nebraska’s conference struggles might turn into hype.
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