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Northwestern Wildcats vs Nebraska Cornhuskers Game Preview
The Northwestern Wildcats head to Lincoln to face the Nebraska Cornhuskers in a key Big Ten matchup on Saturday, October 25, 2025. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 PM ET at Memorial Stadium.
Northwestern enters this contest on a roll, having won four straight games to improve to 5-2 overall (3-1 Big Ten). The Wildcats are coming off a dominant 19-0 home victory over Purdue — their first shutout since 2017 — behind a powerful ground attack and stout defense.
Nebraska (5-2, 2-2 Big Ten) returns home after a disappointing 24-6 loss at Minnesota, a game in which the Cornhuskers allowed nine sacks and failed to reach the end zone. Coach Matt Rhule’s team looks to bounce back and reestablish its offensive rhythm against one of the conference’s hottest teams.
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Line Movement and Betting Odds
Northwestern Moneyline: +164
Nebraska Moneyline: -195
Northwestern Spread: +4.5 (-110)
Nebraska Spread: -4.5 (-110)
Total Over/Under: 44.0 (-110)
Nebraska opened as a 4.5-point home favorite, though early bettors have leaned toward Northwestern thanks to its recent form and defensive dominance. The total remains modest at 44, reflecting both teams’ reliance on their ground games and physical defenses.
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Matchup Breakdown
Northwestern continues to build confidence under coach David Braun, playing disciplined, balanced football. Quarterback Preston Stone has thrown for 1,328 yards and 11 touchdowns this season, while running back Joseph Himon leads a rushing attack that averages 185 yards per game. The offensive line has been exceptional, not allowing a single sack in last week’s win over Purdue.
Defensively, Northwestern has found its identity, ranking among the Big Ten’s best in third-down defense and rushing yards allowed. Linebacker Xander Mueller anchors a unit that has allowed just 37 total points across the past four games.
Nebraska, meanwhile, needs to find offensive consistency after an ugly loss to Minnesota. Quarterback Dylan Raiola has flashed talent — with 1,564 passing yards and nine touchdowns — but protection issues have been glaring. The Cornhuskers allowed nine sacks last week and failed to convert red-zone opportunities. Running back Rahmir Johnson will need to provide balance to alleviate pressure on Raiola and open up play-action opportunities.
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Key Storylines
Northwestern has momentum and confidence on its side. The Wildcats’ formula — efficient quarterback play, strong run blocking, and a relentless defense — has produced four consecutive wins, including two on the road. Braun’s message of “momentum and discipline” continues to resonate with his players.
Nebraska faces a critical test of character after last week’s offensive meltdown. Coach Matt Rhule emphasized protection and execution as the keys to rebounding at home. The Cornhuskers have been strong defensively this season but need their offense to finish drives to keep pace in the Big Ten West race.
This matchup features two programs trending in different emotional directions — Northwestern’s steady rise meets Nebraska’s urgency to respond.
Injury Report
Northwestern Wildcats:
Wide receiver A.J. Henning (ankle) and running back Cam Porter (hamstring) are questionable. Defensive tackle Devin Turner (shoulder) is day-to-day, while offensive lineman Josh Priebe (knee) is out for the season.
Full injury report for Northwestern Wildcats
Nebraska Cornhuskers:
Quarterback Dylan Raiola (shoulder) practiced in full and will start. Offensive tackle Bryce Benhart (ankle) and guard Ethan Piper (knee) are questionable. Linebacker Luke Reimer (undisclosed) and running back Gabe Ervin Jr. (neck) remain out.
Full injury report for Nebraska Cornhuskers
Prediction
Northwestern’s balanced offense and disciplined defense make it a live underdog on the road. Nebraska’s home crowd will provide energy, but unless the Cornhuskers fix their pass protection issues, the Wildcats’ defensive front could control the tempo.
Projected Score: Northwestern 23, Nebraska 20
Best Bet: Northwestern +4.5 (-110)
Secondary Lean: Under 44.0 (-110)
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