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‘We’re Not OK With That,’ ‘Opportunities to Win That Slipped Away’ — Matt Rhule Faces Pushback After Nebraska Lets Late Lead Slip Away in 20-17 Loss to Indiana

Nebraska’s 20-17 loss to No. 7 Indiana on Saturday marked another frustrating collapse for the Cornhuskers, who blew an 11-point fourth-quarter lead in just under five minutes.

The defeat extended Nebraska’s losing streak to 31 consecutive games against ranked opponents under head coach Matt Rhule, with six of those losses decided by seven points or fewer. Quarterback Anthony Colandrea’s 39-yard touchdown run gave Nebraska a 17-6 lead, but Indiana’s Josh Hoover responded with two quick touchdown passes to receiver Nick Marsh, including a 44-yard game-winner on fourth-and-1 with less than seven minutes left.

Rhule later acknowledged confusion on Nebraska’s sideline during the final drive, admitting the program’s struggles stem from missed opportunities and organizational missteps. The loss dropped Nebraska to 5-1 overall and 2-1 in Big Ten play, while Indiana extended its winning streak to 22 games as defending national champions.

Rhule also faced criticism for his interactions with officials, including a first-half argument that drew fan backlash. Earlier in the season, he had criticized officiating after Nebraska’s 48-23 win over Maryland, where the team committed 16 penalties.

Despite outgaining Indiana 391-328 and holding the ball for over 39 minutes, Nebraska’s missed field goal in the first half and late-game execution errors proved decisive. The loss underscores Rhule’s challenges in securing victories against top-tier competition, with Nebraska’s last win over a top-10 team dating back to 2015.

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