Nebraska Cornhuskers vs North Florida Ospreys Picks and Predictions December 1st 2024

Nebraska Appreciates ‘Domino Effect,’ Faces North Florida

Nebraska Aims to Extend Streak

Nebraska looks to carry its recent momentum into December as it hosts North Florida in a non-conference matchup on Sunday afternoon in Lincoln, Neb. The Cornhuskers (5-1) are coming off a 96-79 victory over South Dakota on Wednesday, extending their home winning streak to 16 games dating back to last season.

Their only blemish this season is a narrow three-point loss to Saint Mary’s, and their standout moment came in an 11-point road win over then-No. 14 Creighton on Nov. 22.

Essegian’s Impact

Connor Essegian, a transfer from Wisconsin, led Nebraska against South Dakota with a career-high 29 points. His hot shooting provided a ripple effect for the rest of the team, a factor coach Fred Hoiberg is keen to replicate.

“You see what happens when the first couple go down — it’s the domino effect that goes on to the rest of the team,” Hoiberg said. “The North Florida game, we’re going to see quite a bit of zone, and hopefully this confidence will carry over to Sunday. You have to go into games trying to find what you can do to expose a certain defense.”

North Florida Brings Fast-Paced Style

North Florida (5-2) has also enjoyed early success this season, highlighted by wins at South Carolina and Georgia Tech. The Ospreys thrive on a quick-paced offense focused on outside shooting. They average 13.4 three-pointers per game and shoot 38.2 percent from beyond the arc.

“Quality of shot is way more important, in my opinion, than anything else,” North Florida coach Matthew Driscoll said.

North Florida boasts a balanced attack, with six players averaging double-digit points, including two coming off the bench.

Key Matchups

Nebraska leans on its experienced core, led by senior guard Brice Williams, who averages 18.7 points per game, and Essegian, who contributes 13.5. The Cornhuskers will look to capitalize on their defensive matchups and control the pace against North Florida’s three-point-heavy offense.

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The health of Nebraska’s lineup could play a role. Senior wing Juwan Gary (eye injury) and sophomore forward Berke Buyuktuncel (hip injury) both played limited minutes against South Dakota but are expected to be ready on Sunday.

Outlook

The Cornhuskers aim to build on their strong start and exploit North Florida’s fast-paced offense with a disciplined defense and balanced scoring attack. Meanwhile, the Ospreys hope their perimeter shooting can keep them competitive against a Nebraska team that thrives at home.