Expert score prediction: Nebraska vs. Ohio

Another year, another season opener that will provide the landscape for where Nebraska can go in 2026. Once again, this season is another crucial one for head coach Matt Rhule. After a second straight 7-6 season, the Huskers need to take the next step, even with the various changes to the staff and roster. 

Anthony Colandrea is the biggest change to the roster, coming in from UNLV after Dylan Raiola transferred to Oregon. Colandrea is in his final season and put together a phenomenal junior campaign in his lone year with the Rebels. However, it is rather poetic that his first opponent at Nebraska is his last foe at UNLV.

Ohio frustrated Colandrea and the Rebels last season in the Frisco Bowl, resulting in a 17-10 loss. Many mistakes were made in all three phases for UNLV, something the Huskers are well aware of. However, Colandrea should fare much better against the Bobcats this time around with Nebraska's revamped offensive line and solid receiving corps.

Despite this being John Hauser's first season as head coach for Ohio, he orchestrated a strong front as defensive coordinator last year. In 2025, the Bobcats held opponents to under 22 points per game and tallied 22 sacks, 12 interceptions, and six forced fumbles. Ohio also surrendered just 144 rushing yards per game and 208 passing yards per game.

However, the Bobcats are in a new season with a relatively new roster, with only a few starters from last year returning. Even with Colandrea starting on a new team and the number of running backs Nebraska can pick from, Ohio's defense shouldn't get the better of its opponent. The same can be said of the Blackshirts.

Nebraska’s defense is now under the command of Rob Aurich, who made San Diego State one of the top defenses in the nation last season. Now, he gets to test the waters of being a Big Ten defensive coordinator against an Ohio offense that is also vastly restructured.

Nick Poulos is under center for the Bobcats and is a dual-threat. But he’s only had one other start in his previous two years at Ohio and now faces the Huskers with a limited number of returning starters. Even if Nebraska doesn't play a complete game, it should overwhelm the Bobcats.

Though UMass dismantled Rutgers and UAB even gave Illinois’ defense headaches, Ohio can be another team to bring a fight. But the Huskers should deliver a commanding first game if they want to make a statement to start the year.

Score Prediction: Nebraska 48, Ohio 13

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This article originally appeared on Cornhuskers Wire: Expert score prediction: Nebraska vs. Ohio