Nebraska vs Maryland – Week 7 Big Ten Betting Preview

The Nebraska Cornhuskers bring the nation’s top-ranked pass defense to College Park to face the Maryland Terrapins. Both teams sit at 4-1 (1-1 Big Ten), chasing momentum in midseason conference play.

Nebraska has been dominant through the air defensively, while Maryland continues to lean on quarterback Malik Washington’s playmaking to stay competitive in a deep Big Ten race.

Nebraska can win if

Their defense maintains its elite form. The Cornhuskers are allowing just 91.8 passing yards per game, the best mark in FBS. Defensive backs Tommi Hill and Quentin Newsome have shut down opposing receivers, while the front seven creates steady pressure that limits big plays.

Quarterback Dylan Raiola has been efficient, throwing for 1,331 yards and 12 touchdowns. His ability to spread the field and find Emmett Johnson in check-down situations helps balance an offense that’s averaged just 110 rushing yards in the past two games.

If Nebraska controls tempo and avoids costly turnovers, their defensive edge could travel well enough to secure a road win.

Maryland can win if

They finish strong and protect the pocket. The Terrapins blew a 20-point lead in last week’s 24-20 loss to Washington and have struggled late in games. Freshman quarterback Malik Washington has been productive with 1,257 passing yards, nine touchdowns, and three rushing scores, but consistency has been elusive.

Maryland ranks last in the Big Ten in rushing (93.2 yards per game), yet this matchup provides opportunity. Nebraska’s defense, while elite against the pass, has given up nine rushing touchdowns, including six in the past two weeks. Running back Roman Hemby must help take pressure off Washington with early-down success.

If the Terps maintain balance and capitalize in the red zone, they can break Nebraska’s rhythm and take control at home.

Line Movement and Odds

Opening: Maryland -2.5 / Nebraska +2.5
Current: Maryland -1.5 / Nebraska +1.5
Total: 47.0 points (Over -110 / Under -110)

Early sharp money leaned toward Nebraska’s defense, while public bettors slightly favor Maryland’s home edge. Compare the best available lines across verified sportsbooks using the Sportsbook Reviews section.

For real-time movement, check the college football odds page.

Final

Oct 09, 2025 13:15 EST

Score

+7.5 -110

Spread

-7.5 -110

o+41.5-110

Total

u+41.5-110

+320

Moneyline

-400

30 Picks Made

Final

Oct 09, 2025 13:00 EST

Score

+9 -110

Spread

-9 -110

o+55.5-110

Total

u+55.5-110

+275

Moneyline

-350

10 Picks Made

Final

Oct 09, 2025 13:00 EST

Score

+3 -110

Spread

-3 -110

o+60.5-110

Total

u+60.5-110

+125

Moneyline

-145

16 Picks Made

Matchup Breakdown

Nebraska leads the FBS in pass defense but continues to struggle in short-yardage situations. The Cornhuskers are allowing 316.6 yards per game overall and rank 85th nationally in third-down defense.

Maryland’s offense averages 29.8 points per game and sits top 25 in passing efficiency. The Terrapins’ issue has been second-half execution — they’ve been outscored 51-24 in the fourth quarter this season.

Both teams’ defensive fundamentals make this an attractive under spot, though turnover margins could swing either way.

Explore data matchups and player breakdowns on the college football teams page. For betting fundamentals, visit the Expert Betting Guide and read verified site insights on the Handicappers Sites Reviews.

Injuries and Conditions

Nebraska Cornhuskers

RB Rahmir Johnson (ankle) – probable
LB Luke Reimer (hamstring) – questionable

Maryland Terrapins

WR Tai Felton (hamstring) – questionable
LB Kellan Wyatt (shoulder) – probable

Weather in College Park is expected to be clear with light wind and mid-60s temperatures.

Best Bets and Prediction

Nebraska’s secondary is built to limit Washington’s downfield success, but Maryland’s offensive balance and home-field edge could prove decisive. Expect a low-scoring matchup defined by field position and defensive stops.

Prediction: Maryland 23, Nebraska 20
Best Bet: Under 47 (-110)
Secondary Lean: Maryland -1.5 (-110)

Compare expert picks and verified handicappers on the leaderboard, or review reliable book options through the Pay Per Head Reviews.

ScoresAndStats Handicappers and Picks

Get expert Big Ten analysis, weekly betting trends, and verified selections across all sports inside the Best Handicappers section of ScoresAndStats.

Maryland Terrapins vs Nebraska Cornhuskers Picks and Predictions October 11th 2025