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Resurgent No. 22 Nebraska, No. 24 Illinois Clash in Big Ten Opener
For the first time in over a decade, No. 22 Nebraska and No. 24 Illinois both find themselves ranked in the Associated Press Top 25 as they prepare for a critical Big Ten opener on Friday night in Lincoln, Neb. The winner of this pivotal showdown will not only extend its early-season success but also maintain its coveted spot in the national rankings.
The Cornhuskers (3-0) are enjoying their best start since 2016, the last season they made a bowl appearance. Meanwhile, Illinois (3-0) is off to its first 3-0 start since 2011, marking just the second time in the last 13 years that the Illini have appeared in the AP poll.
Both teams cruised through non-conference play, but now the stakes are higher as they kick off Big Ten competition in front of Nebraska’s 400th consecutive home sellout crowd at Memorial Stadium.
“To have two ranked teams on a Friday night is a little unusual,” Illinois coach Bret Bielema said. “It’s awesome to be a part of it. I give a lot of credit to their team and what they’ve accomplished. I’ve told our guys to stay focused, keep our mentality, and see where we can go.”
Nebraska’s Dominance in Non-Conference Play
Nebraska has shown dominance through three games, holding a combined halftime lead of 79-10 over UTEP, Colorado, and Northern Iowa. First-year head coach Matt Rhule remains cautious despite the early success, viewing the non-conference games as preparation for the real challenge ahead.
“I think any time you don’t punt in the game, you feel pretty good,” Rhule said after Nebraska’s 42-7 win over Northern Iowa. “But that was all preseason to me. Now the season starts. We’ll find out where we are. This will be such a different challenge playing against Illinois.”
Illinois’ Opportunistic Defense
Illinois brings an aggressive, opportunistic defense into Lincoln, tied for second nationally in turnover margin (+8) and ranked fifth in turnovers forced (9). Defensive back Xavier Scott has been a standout, forcing four turnovers, including three interceptions in the first three games.
However, the Illini defense faces a stern test in Nebraska’s talented freshman quarterback, Dylan Raiola. The highly-touted recruit has been steady and efficient, completing 73.8 percent of his passes for 670 yards, five touchdowns, and only one interception so far this season.
“He’s a very talented young man that’s got a great deep ball throw,” Bielema said of Raiola. “You can see him getting better on every series—just very impressive to watch.”
Key Matchup: Raiola vs. Illinois’ Secondary
Nebraska’s offense, led by Raiola, will be up against an Illinois defense that ranks 12th nationally in pass efficiency defense. Coach Rhule is eager to see how his young quarterback handles the Illini’s complex defensive schemes.
“They’ve altered a lot of what they’re doing,” Rhule explained, highlighting Illinois’ defensive coordinator Aaron Henry’s ability to mix up looks. “They’ll show man and play Cover 2. They’ll show man and play zone. With a young quarterback, he’s got to recognize that on the snap.”
Illinois’ Ground Game vs. Nebraska’s Run Defense
Illinois’ rushing attack, led by a balanced backfield averaging 153.3 yards per game, has been reliable but will face one of its toughest challenges yet. Nebraska’s defense is allowing just 2.5 yards per carry and 70.3 rushing yards per game, ranking among the best in the nation.
“If we’re going to win in the Big Ten, we’re going to have to run the ball in certain situations,” Bielema emphasized. “The greatest definition of a team is one that can run the ball effectively against good competition.”
What’s at Stake
Both Nebraska and Illinois are hoping to establish themselves as serious contenders in the Big Ten this season. With both teams riding high and carrying undefeated records, Friday night’s showdown will be pivotal in determining who can maintain momentum. As they clash under the lights in Lincoln, the outcome could set the tone for the rest of the season.
For Nebraska, this is a chance to build on their resurgence under Matt Rhule. For Illinois, it’s an opportunity to continue their rise under Bret Bielema. Both teams have proven they belong in the Top 25, but only one will emerge with their unbeaten record intact.
