The Nebraska Cornhuskers are gearing up for an exciting season, and the buzz around the program is palpable! Under the leadership of head coach Matt Rhule, the Cornhuskers have made significant strides, culminating in their first bowl game appearance since 2016. With a recent victory against the Boston College Eagles in the Bad Boy Mowers Pinstripe Bowl, Nebraska is looking to build on that momentum as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Season Recap: A Step Forward
On December 28, 2024, Nebraska (7-6, 3-6 Big Ten) clinched a hard-fought 20-15 win against Boston College (7-6, 4-4 ACC). Quarterback Dylan Raiola showcased his skills, completing 22 of 30 passes for 224 yards and a touchdown, demonstrating the potential that the Cornhuskers have moving forward. This victory marked a significant improvement from the previous season, where the team only managed to secure five wins.
However, the road ahead will not be without its challenges. The Cornhuskers will face the departure of several key players, including standout wide receiver Jahmal Banks, who led the team with 44 receptions, 587 receiving yards, and five touchdowns. His absence will undoubtedly leave a void in Nebraska’s offense, but it also opens the door for new talent to step up.
Embracing Change: The Transfer Portal Impact
With the roster undergoing a transformation, the Cornhuskers are actively seeking to bolster their lineup through the transfer portal. This presents a golden opportunity for new players to make their mark on the team. The excitement surrounding these additions is palpable, as they could be pivotal in Nebraska’s quest for success in the upcoming season.
Top three transfer portal players joining the Nebraska Cornhuskers next season
#3, Nyziah Hunter, wide receiver
One of the promising new faces is wide receiver Nyziah Hunter. After spending his freshman year with the California Golden Bears, where he recorded 40 receptions for 578 yards and five touchdowns, Hunter is set to bring his talents to Nebraska. His final game with California ended in a disappointing 38-6 loss to the No. 11 SMU Mustangs, but Hunter’s performance, leading the team with five receptions for 85 yards, showcased his potential.
With Banks no longer on the roster, Hunter has a prime opportunity to emerge as a top target for Raiola. His speed and agility could be exactly what Nebraska needs to elevate their passing game.
#2, Marques Watson-Trent, linebacker
Another key addition is linebacker Marques Watson-Trent, who joins the Cornhuskers after a successful five-year stint with the Georgia Southern Eagles. In his final season, he led his team with an impressive 120 total tackles, including 52 solo tackles, 1.5 sacks, and four forced fumbles. Watson-Trent’s experience and leadership will be invaluable to Nebraska’s defense, which ranked eighth in total yards allowed last season.
His performance in the R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl, where he recorded 10 total tackles, further solidified his reputation as a playmaker. With a track record of 349 total tackles and two interceptions over the last three seasons, Watson-Trent is poised to make a significant impact in his final year before potentially declaring for the 2026 NFL draft.
#1, Dane Key, wide receiver
Finally, wide receiver Dane Key is another exciting addition to the Cornhuskers’ roster. After three seasons with the Kentucky Wildcats, where he led the team with 47 receptions for 715 yards and two touchdowns, Key has opted to transfer to Nebraska. His last game with Kentucky was a tough 31-14 loss to the No. 5 Texas Longhorns, but Key’s potential to contribute to Nebraska’s offense is undeniable.
With Banks gone, Key’s experience and playmaking ability will be crucial for the Cornhuskers as they look to enhance their offensive strategy. His ability to stretch the field and create separation could open up new avenues for Nebraska’s passing attack.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Nebraska
As the Cornhuskers prepare for the new season, the combination of returning talent and fresh faces from the transfer portal creates an intriguing dynamic. Coach Rhule’s vision for the program is becoming clearer, and the potential for a College Football Playoff spot is within reach. The excitement surrounding the team is building, and fans are eager to see how these new players will mesh with the existing roster.
With a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to excellence, Nebraska is ready to take on the challenges ahead. The Cornhuskers are not just looking to compete; they are aiming to rise to the top of the Big Ten and make a statement on the national stage. As the season approaches, one thing is certain: the Cornhuskers are poised for a thrilling ride in college football!
