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Nebraska Cornhuskers vs Minnesota Golden Gophers Betting Preview
The Nebraska Cornhuskers head to Minneapolis to face the Minnesota Golden Gophers on Friday, October 17, 2025, in a primetime Big Ten matchup at Huntington Bank Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 8:00 PM ET, airing on FOX.
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Nebraska (5-1, 2-1 Big Ten) enters the AP Top 25 for the first time this season after a dramatic 34-31 win over Maryland. Minnesota (4-2, 2-1 Big Ten) continues to protect its home turf, boasting a perfect 4-0 record in Minneapolis. Both teams sit in the thick of the conference race, making this a pivotal Week 8 contest.
Nebraska Seeking Consistency After Breakthrough Win
The Cornhuskers earned their first national ranking in seven years thanks to back-to-back wins, including their first road victory of the season. Now, coach Matt Rhule’s group looks to take another step forward and end a five-game losing streak against Minnesota.
Quarterback Dylan Raiola has emerged as one of the Big Ten’s top passers, ranking second in the conference with 16 touchdowns. He threw for four scores last week but also tossed three interceptions, nearly allowing Maryland to steal the game. Raiola’s ability to limit mistakes will be key against Minnesota’s opportunistic defense.
Running back Emmett Johnson continues to carry the load offensively, ranking second in the Big Ten with 650 rushing yards. His 176-yard performance last week showcased his explosiveness, and he’ll face a Minnesota defense that just allowed 253 rushing yards to Purdue.
Nebraska’s defense has been opportunistic, ranking among the conference leaders in takeaways and sacks. If the Huskers can win the turnover battle again, they’ll be in strong position to remain in the rankings.
Minnesota Looks to Extend Home Dominance
The Minnesota Golden Gophers continue to grind out close victories, with all four home wins coming by one score. Coach P.J. Fleck’s team relies heavily on defense and discipline, maintaining a plus-4 turnover margin in Big Ten play.
Redshirt freshman quarterback Drake Lindsey bounced back last week, throwing for 232 yards and two touchdowns in a 27-20 win over Purdue. While the Gophers’ passing game has shown growth, the running attack has struggled — averaging just 44.3 rushing yards per game in conference play, the worst mark in the league.
Minnesota’s defense, however, has been a bright spot. It ranks among the national leaders in sacks and interceptions, providing critical takeaways in clutch moments. The Gophers’ ability to pressure Raiola and contain Johnson will determine whether they can keep their home streak alive.
Line Movement and Odds
Current Odds (via ScoresAndStats.com NCAAF Odds)
Nebraska -8.5 (-110)
Minnesota +8.5 (-110)
Total: 46.5 (Over -111 / Under -110)
Nebraska is 6-0 straight-up as a favorite dating back to last season, while Minnesota has gone 4-0 straight-up at home this year.
Matchup Breakdown
Nebraska Cornhuskers Outlook
Nebraska’s offensive balance has fueled its surge. Raiola’s arm strength and Johnson’s versatility create mismatches across the field. Defensively, the Cornhuskers are opportunistic, ranking fourth nationally in interceptions and third in fumbles recovered. If they maintain that takeaway efficiency, Nebraska should control this game.
Minnesota Golden Gophers Outlook
Minnesota’s passing attack is improving, but without a reliable rushing game, the offense risks becoming predictable. Defensively, the Gophers excel at disrupting rhythm and forcing mistakes. Expect them to focus on pressuring Raiola and forcing him off his reads.
Key Edge
Nebraska’s offense is far more dynamic, and its defense matches up well against Minnesota’s one-dimensional attack. While the Gophers’ home-field edge is notable, the Cornhuskers’ superior playmakers and confidence make them the more complete team heading into Friday night.
Betting Trends
Nebraska is 6-0 straight-up as a favorite in its last six games.
Nebraska has hit the over in all five games this season.
Minnesota is 4-0 straight-up at home in 2025.
Minnesota has hit the over in three straight games after a win.
Nebraska is 4-0 on the over as a favorite this season.
Minnesota is 4-1 on the over as an underdog in its last five games.
Prediction and Best Bets
Nebraska’s offense should continue to roll behind Raiola and Johnson, while Minnesota’s defense may struggle to contain both the run and deep passing attack. Expect the Cornhuskers to control the pace and pull away late.
Projected Score: Nebraska 31, Minnesota 20
Best Bet: Nebraska -8.5
Secondary Lean: Over 46.5
For more college football previews, odds, and betting insights, visit ScoresAndStats.com College Football Picks.
