Expert score prediction: Nebraska v. Colorado

Nebraska and Colorado will continue their rivalry for the 73rd time on Saturday night. The Huskers have lost the last three clashes against the Buffaloes, but they have the opportunity to snap the streak. 

Nebraska lost 36-14 in last year’s battle, but there are a few changes this time around that could give the Huskers a much-needed edge over Colorado.

Quarterback was one of the weakest points on Nebraska’s 2023 team, with former Husker Jeff Sims struggling heavily in the Colorado loss. He was just 9-of-15 for 106 yards and one interception while coughing up the ball twice. 

Now, the Huskers enter the 2024 showdown with five-star freshman Dylan Raiola, who threw for over 200 yards and two touchdowns in the win over UTEP. This was thanks to stellar wideouts Isaiah Neyor and Jahmal Banks. The duo combined for 182 yards and two touchdowns off ten catches. 

Nebraska also brings a running back squad of Rahmir Johnson, Emmett Johnson, Gabe Ervin Jr., and Dante Dowdell. The four combined for 200 rushing yards and three touchdowns.

Now, Raiola and the offense need to take advantage of Colorado’s leaky defense and not give it any breaks. The Buffaloes allowed nearly 450 yards in their win against North Dakota State. 

Colorado is bound to get points with the versatility of its offense, but the Huskers’ defense won’t let it walk all over them like North Dakota State. The Bison appeared lost at times against Colorado’s passing game, surrending 445 yards and four touchdowns to quarterback Shedeur Sanders. 

The Huskers control their fate in this game. Their defense needs to continue to play at its current level while the offense continues to make strides in the right direction. The fact that it is a Saturday night showdown at Memorial Stadium should give Nebraska a clear home-field advantage.  

Score Prediction: Nebraska 34, Colorado 21

This article originally appeared on Cornhuskers Wire: Expert score prediction: Nebraska v. Colorado