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Ranking the opponents for Nebraska’s second half of the season

Nebraska enters the second half of its 2026 season with a 5-1 record, marking the third straight year of five wins but the first time since 2016 they’ve started the season unbeaten. Their lone loss—a 20-17 defeat to then-No.

7 Indiana—sets the tone for a stretch where the Huskers will face a mix of vulnerable and still-dangerous opponents. Quarterback injuries and underperformance have reshuffled the pecking order, leaving Nebraska with opportunities to exploit teams in transition.

Rutgers, for instance, has struggled offensively against FBS competition, averaging just 23 points per game while surrendering 2.5 turnovers and over three sacks, with opponents scoring 45 points off those mistakes alone. Their defense isn’t much better, allowing over 27 points per game (excluding turnovers) and failing to generate turnovers or sacks in four FBS matchups.

After a grueling schedule leading into their home game against Nebraska, Rutgers’ offense may again falter, while their defense could be overwhelmed by Nebraska’s passing attack, which has already limited Indiana to 20 points in their last meeting.

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