The Nebraska Cornhuskers defense has established itself as a key strength of the 2024 team, but this Saturday’s game will present a new challenge.
Currently, Nebraska’s defense ranks 18th nationally in points allowed per game (8.5) and 24th in yards allowed per game (232.5) through the first two weeks. The Blackshirts have permitted just 72 rushing yards and no touchdowns on 46 carries, averaging 36 rushing yards per game and 1.5 yards per carry.
In contrast, Northern Iowa brings a potent ground game to Lincoln, differing significantly from the offenses of UTEP and Colorado.
The Panthers have accumulated 598 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns in two games, averaging an impressive 7.4 yards per carry.
Huskers defensive coordinator Tony White noted on Tuesday that UNI’s running backs are formidable, stating, “They will rush for 200 yards if you let them. Respect the hell out of the running backs. They may be the best running backs that we’ve seen to date.”
Head coach Matt Rhule echoed this sentiment on Monday, emphasizing the shift from facing spread offenses to teams that excel in physical, run-heavy games. He said, “We’ve played two spread teams; now it changes. How do we match up against teams that want to run the ball like we want to run the ball? How do we match up against teams that want to play physical defense and play special teams?”
Northern Iowa’s rushing attack features senior backs Amauri Pesek-Hickson and Tye Edwards. Pesek-Hickson, a 6-foot, 225-pound Omaha native, combines strong running with some receiving skills. After transferring from Kansas and spending limited time on the field in 2022, he averaged 4.6 yards per carry last season.
Edwards, at 6-foot-4 and 230 pounds, brings both power and speed, having already recorded runs of over 50 yards in each game this season. The Huskers are confident in their ability to handle the challenge.
Senior defensive lineman Nash Hutmacher expressed excitement, stating, “Yeah, we’re super excited, especially up front. We know we can stop the run and we’re gonna go show it this weekend.”
Junior defensive lineman Jimari Butler, who also earned a Blackshirt this season, feels well-prepared thanks to his training and physical changes over the past year. He admitted past struggles against the run but is now ready for the test.
The team views this matchup as a valuable precursor to upcoming conference games. “Yeah, it’s big-time. I think we need it going into Big Ten play,” said senior linebacker John Bullock. “It’s a good test for us. … We’re looking forward to the challenge this week.” White also emphasized the significance of this game, noting that UNI’s use of two tight ends and big backs, along with their potential for play-action passes, makes for a compelling challenge.
While Northern Iowa is known for its strong rushing game, they can pass effectively as well. Quarterback Aidan Dunne has completed 23 of 42 passes (54.8%) for 215 yards, with three touchdowns and no interceptions, and has added 25 rushing yards.
Nebraska will likely face the Panthers without junior linebacker Mikai Gbayor, who was ejected for targeting last week and will serve a suspension for the first half of this game.
The Huskers are holding an open competition to determine who will fill his spot. A victory over Northern Iowa would mark Nebraska’s first 3-0 start since 2016. The game, which will be the first-ever meeting between the two teams, is set to kick off at 6:30 p.m.
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