HuskerMax Predictions: Nebraska Football vs. Cincinnati

Matt McMaster: I think the Huskers will show flashes of brilliance and room for growth in their 7 point win against the Bearcats.

Mike Cavallo: Nebraska’s offensive upgrades and clock-control style give them the edge, but Cincinnati’s defensive front and ball-control tactics could keep it close. Expect a physical, possession-driven game with a few explosive plays from Raiola tipping the balance toward the Cornhuskers.

Tad Stryker: The experience and depth in the NU offensive line should more than offset the Bearcats’ Dontay Corleone, who may be the best single lineman on the field Thursday night. This also will be an early indicator whether the Huskers’ retooled defensive front can stand up to a good running attack. If the Huskers can’t hold Cincy under 150 yards rushing, I it’s unlikely they can keep Michigan from controlling the game with power football on September 20.

Tanner Johnson: The offense will showcase what it has been working on in its first offseason with Dana Holgorsen running the show and Dylan Raiola will show off some of his new polished game. The defense will get important stops late to preserve a double digit season opening win.

Eric Hess: The game plays out similarly to the Big 12 matchup last year. The Huskers get a big lead early, but the 4th quarter makes the game closer.

Cole Stukenholtz: Nebraska is the more talented team, and you have to like the coordinator upgrades they made on offense and special teams. I expect NU to control much of the game. But it's still gonna be tight, and they'll have to prove they can execute late to put it away.

Austin Jacobsen: There will be growing pains and likely a “I thought they fixed this?” Moment (likely from special teams) in the game, but I don’t believe that the Bearcats have the same Jimmies and Joes to make plays that Nebraska can at Arrowhead.

Jan Mudder: Expect a close first half, but adjustments and depth will lead to a Nebraska victory. Cincinnati will have some success running the ball, which will make Nebraska's D-line the main talking point for the next few weeks.

Jay Stockwell: Cincinnati enters as a resilient mid‑tier Big 12 squad coming off a disappointing 5–7 season last year under coach Scott Satterfield. Bearcats are looking to surprise early but face an uphill battle against Nebraska’s balanced and improved roster. Husker faithful are drinking the Rhule-Aide. Improved coaching and talent in all three phases will send the Bearcats back to the drawing board.

Bob Frady: Two teams with giant questions take the field in Kansas City. Will Dylan Raiola lead the offense to new heights? How do we replace the D-Line losses? Whatever the details, we can't decide between a blowout and a close victory for the Big Red...so lets be cautious and go with the close-ish victory.

David Max: The defense will bend but not break. Offense will make big plays to take charge of the game.

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