Michigan vs Nebraska Turns Into Wild Back-and-Forth Clash
What a rollercoaster it was when Michigan traveled to Lincoln for their first Big Ten road game of the season. This one wasn’t just another matchup—it turned into the type of battle where every ounce of momentum was snatched away just as quickly as it was gained. Fans in the stands and those watching at home barely had a chance to breathe between big plays.
Michigan got on the board first, showing they were ready to set the tone. But Nebraska wasn’t about to let the Wolverines walk away with an easy road win. The Cornhuskers responded almost immediately, keeping the game balanced and tense. It was one of those contests where every drive felt like it could swing the entire outcome.
The stars for Michigan made their presence known early. Running back Justice Haynes ripped through Nebraska’s defense for a jaw-dropping 75-yard touchdown, igniting the Wolverines’ sideline. But before Michigan could savor it, Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola answered with fireworks of his own. Just when the Wolverines thought they would head into halftime with a lead, Raiola’s Hail Mary was hauled in by wideout Jacory Barney Jr., tying the game at 17 apiece as the clock hit zero. It was a gut punch for Michigan, and television analyst Rick Neuheisel didn’t hold back, calling the Wolverines’ clock management “coaching malpractice.”
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The second half didn’t cool down either. Michigan’s defense, relentless all game, stacked up sack after sack on Raiola, but Nebraska kept clawing back thanks to clutch kicks and timely penalties. A critical unsportsmanlike conduct call against Michigan’s Brandyn Hillman breathed new life into the Cornhuskers, and Nebraska capitalized with a field goal to take the lead. Still, Michigan’s ground game proved hard to contain. Jordan Marshall broke free for a 54-yard touchdown run that widened the margin once again, making sure the Wolverines stayed in front.
Quarterback Bryce Underwood had his ups and downs in this one. He showed flashes of brilliance—especially with his 37-yard rushing touchdown—but he also struggled under Nebraska’s pressure, fumbling once and taking some tough sacks. His stats at halftime told the story: efficient but not explosive, steady but still searching for rhythm. Fortunately for him, Michigan’s running backs shouldered the load, with Haynes looking every bit like the superstar he’s been hyped to be.
On the Nebraska side, Raiola displayed the talent that had been promised of him as one of the nation’s top recruits. His calm under fire and ability to deliver clutch throws kept the Cornhuskers alive. It’s clear he’s the centerpiece of Nebraska’s hopes, not only for this season but for the program’s push back to national relevance.
In the end, this was the type of game that reminded everyone why Big Ten football commands so much passion. Explosive plays, momentum swings, penalties that changed everything, and young stars showing why they were recruited at the highest level—it all came together in Lincoln. Michigan may have made it messy at times, but they proved once again they can rise to the challenge when tested. Nebraska, meanwhile, showed the grit and talent to hang with a top-25 team, even if history hasn’t been on their side.
One thing’s certain: this matchup will be remembered as more than just another September game. It was a statement by both programs that neither intends to back down anytime soon.
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