The 2024 Nebraska Cornhuskers stunned fans and critics with a decisive win over Wisconsin, silencing many negative narratives that had plagued the team. This victory dismissed accusations of being “snakebit” or cursed while showcasing improvements in offense, quarterback Dylan Raiola’s performance, and overall team cohesion under Matt Rhule’s leadership. The long bowl drought—eight years by most accounts—finally came to an end, marking a major milestone for the program.
The resounding 19-point win on Senior Day offered a cathartic release for fans and players alike. It reminded everyone that while the season had its struggles, things weren’t as dire as they seemed. The victory not only celebrated the contributions of senior players but also emphasized the need for continued growth. The upcoming bowl game practices will be crucial for development and evaluation, potentially more impactful than the game itself.
Despite the success, Nebraska’s issues aren’t fully resolved. The defense remains in a “bend, but don’t break” mode, and special teams still require significant improvement. Furthermore, the challenge of replacing departing seniors and managing a roster cut adds complexity to the off-season. However, the team is positioned to address these areas with the added time and focus bowl preparations provide.
The electric atmosphere at Memorial Stadium highlighted the importance of fan support. Nebraska’s crowd responded with passion, creating an environment that inspired the team. This marked a stark contrast to the subdued energy during the UCLA game, reinforcing the idea that home-field advantage is a powerful asset, even though fan enthusiasm shouldn’t be mandatory.
In his second game as offensive coordinator, Dana Holgorsen impressed with a well-balanced game plan. The mix of power running, strategic formations, and effective red-zone execution demonstrated his creativity. The offense’s ability to adapt and capitalize on opportunities—such as Emmett Johnson’s explosive 26-yard play—proved pivotal and bodes well for the future.
Nebraska’s victory was marked by standout performances from players like Emmett Johnson, who showcased remarkable agility and determination, and lesser-known contributors like Luke Lindenmeyer and Nate Boerkircher, who seized their moments. The mantra of “players making plays” was evident throughout the game, though some, like Thomas Fidone, need to make the most of future opportunities.
For once, Nebraska benefited from another team’s mistakes. Wisconsin’s errors, including missed field goals and costly penalties, were uncharacteristic of the Badgers and eerily reminiscent of Nebraska’s struggles in recent years. The Huskers capitalized, converting turnovers and miscues into 24 points, highlighting a newfound ability to punish opponents for their mistakes.
Beyond football, Nebraska athletics enjoyed a stellar weekend. The men’s basketball team delivered a commanding win over #14 Creighton, while the volleyball team dominated #6 Wisconsin, taking control of the conference title race. These victories, combined with football’s success, created a trifecta of triumphs, offering fans a rare chance to celebrate across multiple sports.
Nebraska’s performance against Wisconsin might be their most complete game of 2024. While the Colorado game remains their best win, Saturday’s sustained excellence after halftime showcased growth. The Huskers maintained pressure, scored consistently, and avoided complacency, resulting in a well-rounded team victory.
The 44-25 scoreline achieved “Huskerigami” status—a unique final score in Nebraska’s 130+ year football history. This marked the eighth Huskerigami in Nebraska-Wisconsin matchups, adding a touch of trivia to an already memorable game. The win not only secured a bowl bid but also reinforced optimism for the program’s trajectory under Matt Rhule’s leadership.
