Common Fan - A Nebraska Football Podcast

After an offseason of hand wringing, gnashing of teeth, and some serious skepticism surrounding Nebraska football, the Common Fans take a step back and try something different this week: an episode built around optimism. The boys have not been immune from airing their grievances about the way the 2025 season ended, so they decide to take an honest look at why and how Nebraska football could take a step forward in 2026.Is Husker Nation Being Too Negative? There’s no denying how last season ended. The 1–5 finish. The feeling of the missed “Year 3 leap.” The manner in which the Big Red lost the final three games. Even the usually Kool Aid-drinking Common Fans have had their share of frustrations during the offseason. But one thing hasn’t changed: nobody here is rooting against Matt Rhule. The best thing for the program would be for Rhule to figure out how to get Nebraska over the hump, and back to national relevance. Matt Rhule Has Already Raised the FloorTwo straight bowl games. Back-to-back winning seasons. A program that, objectively, is in a better place than it was three years ago. It’s not where anyone wants to be yet—but it’s much better than where we were.Perhaps the progress of the last three years sometimes gets lost in the broader conversation. Husker fans should never apologize for wanting more, never apologize for expecting greatness. But we also must acknowledge that the program was at its lowest point in decades when Rhule took over. Rhule Doesn’t Stand PatOne thing you can’t accuse Rhule of is standing still. The boys in red will enter the 2026 season with a new defensive coordinator, a new offensive line coach, a run game coordinator, and several high impact transfers. It’s important for Husker fans to acknowledge that, when something hasn’t worked, Rhule has owned it, and he’s made changes.Could the Offense Finally Look Different?This might be the biggest reason for optimism. A new, mobile quarterback with three years of starting experience at the Power Five level provides an opportunity for a fresh start. The Dylan Raiola era brought hype, attention, and expectations. But it also may have taken the program in a direction that ultimately wasn’t beneficial.Add in what looks to be a significantly upgraded offensive line, weapons at wide receiver, and a young but promising running back room, and there’s a real path to something Nebraska hasn’t consistently had under Rhule: a physical, reliable run game.Is the Tough Schedule Actually an Opportunity?As has been discussed ad nauseum since the 2025 season ended, the 2026 schedule is a beast. Nebraska plays three playoff teams in Indiana, Ohio State, and Oregon, and the rest of the Big Ten schedule isn’t exactly a cake walk. But the difficulty of the schedule is also an opportunity. If Nebraska is going to take a real step forward, it has to show up in the biggest games anyway. Beat some times they’re not supposed to, and things around the program will start to feel different. Check out the episode on YouTube, listen on the Common Fan website, or find it on any audio platform where you get your podcasts.As always, GBR for LIFE!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome back to the Common Fan Podcast, where the guys take a look at Nebraska’s NFL draft results (or lack thereof), Matt Rhule’s recent comments about NIL, and Scott Frost once again being in Nebraska football-related news. Nebraska’s Dwindling Draft Performance Over the Past Several YearsThe conversation starts with the NFL Draft—and what it says about Nebraska football. The numbers are pretty sobering.We dig into the data showing Nebraska’s declining NFL draft production over the past two decades, including a staggering stat: Nebraska is one of only a few Power Four programs without a top-50 pick since 2012.That’s not just a recruiting issue. That’s development. That’s evaluation. That’s everything. And until Nebraska starts consistently producing NFL-level talent again–whether through talent acquisition, development, or both–there will be a ceiling.Can a “Developmental Program” Still Work in 2026?Can “developmental programs” still succeed at the highest levels in today’s game? With the transfer portal, NIL, and instant roster turnover, the idea of waiting three to four years for players to develop feels…outdated. The guys debate whether Nebraska can still win that way—or if the sport has moved on.Because right now, it feels like the Huskers are stuck in the middle: not elite in recruiting or development. The Money ConversationRevenue sharing. NIL deals. $40 million rosters. Matt Rhule spending half his offseason fundraising like a politician.Raising money has become a central necessity for coaches and athletic departments alike. The boys unpack what this means for Nebraska, and more importantly, where the Big Red actually stands. Because while it’s easy to say “we’re getting outspent,” the reality is more complicated.And Then There’s Scott FrostOf course, it wouldn’t be a Common Fan episode without a little chaos.The guys react to Scott Frost’s recent comments about Nebraska—specifically, his reluctance to talk about his time in Lincoln and his take on the “pressure” of coaching at his alma mater.That leads to a bigger question: is Nebraska really that different from every other major program…or was Frost just not built for it? The takes are…not subtle.At the end of the day, this episode keeps circling back to the same truth: Talent matters. Development matters. Money matters. But eventually, it all has to show up on Saturdays.Check out the episode on YouTube, listen on the Common Fan website, or find it on any audio platform where you get your podcasts.As always, GBR for LIFE!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Common Fans discuss the big news of the week in Husker Nation: Nebraska’s $600 million plan to renovate Memorial Stadium. Fans are naturally curious: curious about how the renovations will be paid for, about why that money isn’t going to the roster, and about why stadium upgrades now cost more than some small towns.The boys dive headfirst into the Big Red Rebuild—what fans are saying, and what it means for Nebraska football moving forward.Is a $600 Million Stadium Renovation the Right Investment in the Right Place at the Right Time?Nebraska hasn’t consistently won in a long time. How will fans respond to a massive stadium renovation?We break down the reality behind the numbers—what’s actually being funded (deferred maintenance plus fan experience), where the money is coming from (donors plus bonds), and why this probably isn’t as simple as “just spend it on players.”Still…it’s fair for fellow common fans to ask the question. When you see programs like Texas Tech suddenly spending like drunken sailors to load up on talent (and making the playoff because of it), fans may wonder: could some of those dollars be used differently?Is Stadium vs. Roster the Wrong Question?Is this really an either/or decision? Or is it about growing the pie?The guys talk through the difference between one-time donor gifts (that often come with naming rights and legacy appeal) versus the ongoing, annual grind of funding a roster in the NIL era. It’s not apples to apples.But it won’t stop fans from wondering, and this will likely be a discussion topic in Husker Nation for years to come. What Happens If the Team Doesn’t Win?A renovated stadium is great. Premium seating, 360-degree concourse, bigger video boards—even for old souls who just want to cheer on the Big Red, it sounds pretty cool (not to mention seatbacks for everyone!).But none of it matters if the product on the field doesn’t improve. Because the reality is this: Ticket prices are going to go up.Required donations are going to go up. And that means expectations are going way up.And if Nebraska is still sitting at six or seven wins in 2028 with a shiny new stadium, that will be a problem.An Investment in the FansThe crew cites Tom Shatel of the Omaha World Herald, who makes one of the more compelling arguments in favor of the project: this is an investment in Nebraska fans.The idea is simple: reward the people who keep showing up. The same fans who have kept the sellout streak alive through two decades of frustration.Make Memorial Stadium not just historic, but modern. A place people want to spend an entire Saturday. A place where people want to attend concerts, big events…and even get married. If done right, it could make one of the best environments in college football even better.You Can’t Replace Memorial Stadium…Right?One detail that caught everyone’s attention: Nebraska at least explored the idea of building a brand new stadium.That…does not go over well with the boys from Lincoln.It’s All About the WsAt the end of the day, this conversation keeps coming back to the same place: everything comes back to winning.You can upgrade the stadium. You can enhance the experience. You can modernize everything. But eventually, the product put on the field by Nebraska football has to match it.Check out the episode on YouTube, listen on the Common Fan website, or find it on any audio platform where you get your podcasts.As always, GBR for LIFE!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

We’ve hinted at it. It’s come up before. But we have never devoted an entire episode to the discussion. Until now.This week, the Common Fans take on a slightly uncomfortable question about Nebraska football: are we part of the problem? Not the administration. Not the coaches. Not the players.The fans.It’s a conversation that came directly from the Common Fan community, and it turns into an honest, passionate, wide-ranging discussion about the role of the fans, and whether or not our passion has inadvertently made it harder for the football team to get back to its winning ways. Does an Empty Seat Speak Louder Than a Filled One?Nebraska’s sellout streak is one of the most iconic things in college football. It’s a badge of honor for the fan base. It’s a recruiting tool for the team and the coaching staff. It’s a point of pride from Omaha to Scottsbluff. But…what if it’s also part of the issue?We dig into whether constant support from the fans, no matter the results, has removed any real pressure on the people running the program. Would fewer fans in the stands send a stronger message? Or would it just create more instability in a program that’s already had plenty of it?Are Husker Fans Too Loyal…or Too Intense?On one hand, Nebraska fans show up. To borrow a phrase from Tom Shatel that the boys reference regularly, Nebraska football fans are undefeated against apathy. That’s one of the things that makes Husker football special. On the other hand, that same passion creates a “fishbowl” dynamic: a level of scrutiny and expectation that’s hard to fully understand unless you’ve lived it. From message boards to social media to talk radio to podcasts and beyond, there are more outlets than ever for frustration, criticism, and, let’s be honest, occasional insanity (the fellas point out they are proud to be part of the insane in this case).So the question becomes: does that environment help drive success…or quietly work against it?Great ExpectationsAt some point, this conversation always comes back to expectations.Are we projecting 1990s-era expectations of dominance onto today’s players and coaches? And if we are…is that unfair? Or is that exactly what makes Nebraska Nebraska?Because the reality is, for a lot of us, this isn’t just a team. It’s part of our identity. It’s basement walls covered in memorabilia. It’s part of our family tradition. It’s Saturdays in the fall. It’s something that’s been woven into the fabric of who we are for decades.And if we let go of those expectations, we risk ceasing being what has always made us great. So…Who Actually Deserves the Blame?If it’s not the fans, then who?When you step back and look at the last 20+ years, one thing stands out: Nebraska hasn’t acted like a blue blood when it comes to hiring coaches. Fired NFL coaches. First-time head coaches. “Value brand” hires. These were huge misses that feel obvious in hindsight and, when taken together, combined to set the program back to a level we could never have imagined 20 years ago.The Program’s Greatest AssetAt the end of the day, this fan base is still here. Still showing up. Still caring. Still investing time, money, and emotion into something that hasn’t given enough back in a long time.And the boys decide that’s not the problem. Maybe that’s the one thing that still gives Nebraska a chance to get this right. At the end of the day, this is the life we’ve chosen, and there is only one guarantee: Husker Nation doesn’t need to apologize for anything. Check out the episode on YouTube, listen on the Common Fan website, or find it on any audio platform where you get your podcasts.As always, GBR for LIFE!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

There is definitely some uncertainty among the passengers on the HMS Rhule at this point in the coach’s tenure in Lincoln. But how many have actually jumped ship? The boys dive into this question and much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast!Everything But Football School?The crew kicks things off by celebrating Fred Hoiberg being named National Coach of the Year—and what that means for the future of Nebraska basketball. The investment is going up, the fan base is all-in, and for the first time in maybe forever, it feels sustainable.Beyond hoops, the baseball and softball teams are rolling (and ranked!), volleyball is a national powerhouse, and wrestling, track, bowling…you name it, the Cornhusker athletic teams are firing on all cylinders. There’s significant momentum across Troy Dannen’s department, and Nebraska is relevant again in a lot of places.Nothing Can Replace FootballEven with the success of all the other sports, when Husker football isn’t competitive, something’s missing and everyone can feel it. Nebrasketball’s run and having the other sports show up certainly help things, and they make the long football offseason go by quicker. But this school and this fan base need Nebraska football to get back to being nationally competitive. What is the View of Rhule Among the Fan Base? How bad is it out there? How much of the fan base is truly out on Rhule? It’s clear people are frustrated, but what’s not clear is what percentage of the fan base actually wants him gone, versus how many people are simply getting nervous, and hoping he can figure it out.   And the boys ask – is all this hand wringing and gnashing of teeth fair? Is it impatience? Residual frustration from the last 20 years? Or is it the combination of talking a big game without enough results to back it up? The guys debate whether Husker fans need to relax—or if the skepticism is justified.What Do the Numbers Say About 2026?The early SP+ rankings are out, and they provide a sobering reminder. While not everyone buys into the SP+ rankings, they are at least a data point, and they illustrate the challenge for this coming season. Nebraska sits at #37, but will face three top-5 teams, and three others currently ranked ahead of them. Are We Closer Than It Feels…or Further Away Than Ever?The most maddening part is that Nebraska hasn’t been getting blown out. They’ve been close. That’s been a painful reality for more than a decade. But the Big Red have been on the losing end of way too many of those contests, and that’s what’s driving fans crazy.There’s a lot to like right now in Lincoln. But until football matches the rest, something’s always going to feel incomplete.Check out the episode on YouTube, listen on the Common Fan website, or find it on any audio platform where you get your podcasts.As always, GBR for LIFE!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week, the Common Fans are joined by Brandon Vogel to process Nebrasketball’s program-changing season—and to ask what it might mean for the athletic department and the future of Husker football.Nebrasketball Resets the StandardFrom the first NCAA Tournament win in program history to a Sweet 16 run that had the entire fan base locked in, this wasn’t just a “nice season.” It felt bigger than that.We talk about what this run meant—not just in the moment, but long-term. The way it pulled in casual fans. The way it created core memories for kids. The way it turned Nebraska basketball into our team for a few weeks in March.Is this the new baseline? Or was this lightning in a bottle?Why Did It Have to Be Iowa?Let’s just get it out.If Nebraska loses to a one-seed, we all tip our cap and move on. But losing to Iowa—after leading for most of the game—adds an entirely different layer.We unpack why that matchup felt different, why the loss hit harder, and how it somehow managed to be the most Nebraska ending imaginable. From missed shots late…to that moment with four players on the floor…it all felt painfully familiar. And a lot of that goes back to football. And then we collectively agree: we’re done talking about Iowa (for now).Where Was Nebraska Football This Spring?In one of the strangest developments of the offseason, football just…took a back seat.With basketball dominating the conversation, and disappointment from the 2025 season still lingering, spring ball came and went with far less hype than we’re used to. The boys discuss why that might actually be a good thing—and whether “flying under the radar” is exactly where this program needs to be right now.What’s the Football Version of This Basketball Run?If what we just experienced with basketball felt like a breakthrough…what’s the equivalent for football?Is it making the playoff? Winning 9–10 games? Just being in the conversation again?And maybe the bigger question: would one season be enough to reset the narrative—or does this fan base need to see it for a sustained period of time?Spring Ball TakeawaysBrandon gives his main takeaways from the Spring Game and spring ball in general. We dive into:Why the defense is the biggest swing factorWhat Tony C brings to the offense (and the risk that comes with it)Whether this team can finally generate something unexpectedAnd why “prove it mode” is still the only mindset that mattersCheck out the episode on YouTube, listen on the Common Fan website, or find it on any audio platform where you get your podcasts.As always, GBR for LIFE!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The guys kick things off by celebrating the Common Fans’ run to the Final Four of Mike’l Severe’s local podcast bracket challenge. Thanks to an incredible push from the Common Fan community, the pod took down some major names–including the Pick Six Podcast and Nick Bahe’s podcast–before finally losing in a razor-close matchup with the Schick and Nick Podcast. It was shameless, deeply competitive, and wildly fun. In other words: it was perfect.What should we make of Nebraska’s 2026 projected win total?The conversation then turns to FanDuel’s early over/under for how many games the Nebraska football team will win in 2026. It opened at 5.5, quickly moved to 6.5, and that number says a lot about where the outside world sees this program right now. The boys dig into what that means, why expectations have dropped so considerably, and whether that might actually be a good thing (at least for now). For once, Nebraska is not winning the offseason. There’s not much hype. There’s not much juice. And maybe, just maybe, that’s better than the annual offseason national championships.Does Matt Rhule need a Fred Hoiberg season?Watching Nebraska basketball explode past expectations this year naturally raises the question: can Matt Rhule do the same with football? Fred Hoiberg’s team wasn’t just “better than expected.” It shattered expectations. It changed the conversation. It reset belief in the entire program for years to come. That’s the kind of season Nebraska football badly needs. Not necessarily a playoff run, but a season that feels undeniably different. A season that makes fans stop bracing for disappointment and start believing the trajectory has finally changed.The fellas wrestle with what that would actually look like. Is 7-5 enough if the team looks better? Is 8-4 the line where people finally exhale? And how much of Nebraska’s long, strange post-Osborne drift is about unrealistic expectations… versus just repeatedly hiring the wrong guys?Can Husker fans still enjoy the ride?The episode closes with some love for Nebraska basketball, some NCAA tournament hype, and a reminder that this has been one of the most enjoyable Husker sports years in a long time. The footballization of fandom has made everybody a little insane, but the guys make the case for stepping back and appreciating what’s happening — even while still demanding more from football.Ending with GratitudeThe crew also reflects on just how invested they got in the aforementioned bracket challenge, and how cool it was to see so many Common Fans show up and vote. There’s a lot of gratitude here — and also a lot of laughing at themselves for how emotionally attached they got to a Twitter poll. But bottomline: we’re so grateful to all the Common Fans who have joined us on this ride, and can’t wait for a lot more fun and frivolity to come! Check out the episode on YouTube, listen on the Common Fan website, or find it on any audio platform where you get your podcasts.As always, GBR for LIFE!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Clester Johnson joins the Common Fans for one of the most fun conversations we’ve had in a while: a mix of Husker history, current program talk, and some unfiltered truth about what has gone wrong at Nebraska over the last two decades. Put on some Common Fan socks, kick up your feet, and enjoy this conversation with one of the major contributors on two of Nebraska’s national championship teams. Bring Back the WingbackBefore diving into the current state of Nebraska football, the guys spend time with Clester reflecting on his own story, from growing up in Memphis, to starring at quarterback at Bellevue West, and eventually becoming a Husker.Clester shares how Tom Osborne’s leadership helped turn things around when he hit a crossroads early in Lincoln, and how a mindset shift and a position switch to wingback changed the course of his career. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the mentality of those championship-era teams and the standard that made Nebraska great.Tom Osborne’s InfluenceClester’s stories about Osborne alone are worth the listen. He talks about TO’s presence, wisdom, and the way he could challenge players without calling them out by name. One speech in particular stuck with Clester for life — a message about accountability, distractions, and whether players were really doing everything they could to become the best version of themselves.The Frost Era, Loyalty, and AccountabilityThe conversation also takes a more serious turn when the guys ask Clester about a tweet he recently sent regarding Scott Frost, the people around him, and the larger failures that deepened Nebraska’s slide. CJ does not duck the topic. He explains that he was excited when Frost came back and believed, like many fans did, that Frost was the right choice. But when things began to unravel, he became frustrated with the people inside the program and around the program–especially former players–who protected personalities instead of staying committed to the standard.It is an honest, thoughtful discussion about accountability, loyalty, and why Nebraska’s problems have gone far beyond just one coach.The Future Under Matt RhuleThe boys also discuss Matt Rhule and the current state of Nebraska football. Clester gives his candid read on Matt Rhule, and why 2026 feels like a massive year.There’s still hope. There’s still belief that Nebraska can get back. But Clester makes it clear: this season has to look like progress. Real progress. Not spin. Not promises. Not another reset.Check out the episode on YouTube, listen on the Common Fan website, or find it on any audio platform where you get your podcasts.As always, GBR for LIFE! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Spring ball is well underway, Nebraska turns 159 years old, and the Common Fan Podcast is ready to try a little offseason optimism. Plus, the Common Fans are still alive in Mike’l Severe’s bracket competition among local sports podcasts! Look to vote on Tuesday! If Nebraska is going to take a step forward in 2026, who HAS to hit?After the way last season ended–and with Ohio State, Oregon, Indiana, Illinois, Washington, and Iowa waiting on this year’s schedule–this fan base is firmly in prove-it mode. If the Huskers are to actually prove it in 2026, which guys absolutely have to hit–or perhaps even exceed–their potential this season? Tony C: It’s probably the most obvious of the bunch. Quarterback is the most important position in sports, and Anthony Colandrea is expected to be the guy in 2026. The career stats are strong (7,500+ passing yards, 1,100+ rushing yards, improved TD/INT ratio in 2025), but the Big Ten jump is still the unknown. Elijah Pritchett: Can the offensive line actually be a strength? That’s where a lot of Nebraska’s investment went in the offseason, but the Common Fans agree the most important piece is a guy who has already been on the roster for a year. The Alabama transfer looked shaky early in 2025, but eventually started to look like Nebraska’s best lineman. The season might hinge on whether or not Pritchett becomes the anchor of Nebraska’s O line.Mekhi Nelson: We haven’t seen a lot of Nelson in two seasons as a Husker, but part of that is because he was behind the great Emmett Johnson. He looked solid in the bowl game, and when you add in a mobile QB, new transfer offensive linemen, and two new O-line coaches, the run game should be as well positioned as it has been in years. Somebody has to step into the Emmett-sized void. In order for the Huskers to surprise some people in 2026, it needs to be Nelson. Riley Van Poppel: Husker fans have been waiting for RVP to dominate. Perhaps scheme/fit was part of the problem last year; he’ll get a fresh start with a new position coach, new defensive coordinator, and new scheme. Hopefully it plays to Van Poppel’s strengths; Nebraska sure needs it to. Owen Chambliss: The San Diego State transfer already knows the system and shows real instincts. The Big Red felt short-handed at linebacker at times last season (even with Vincent Shavers being a beast). Nebraska needs an “eraser;” a guy who turns what should’ve been seven yards into two. If Chambliss hits, the whole defense gets better.Cam Lenhardt: It’s been way too long since Nebraska consistently made quarterbacks uncomfortable. The tools are there. Now it’s time for the breakout season: tackles for loss, sacks, havoc, and the kind of blindside strip-sack that makes you yell so loud your neighbors consider calling somebody.Honorable mentions and the real pointYes, the receivers matter; Jacory Barney, Nyziah Hunter, and Kwazi Gilmer have to make plays (and maybe stay upright), and the room has depth and upside. The boys also discuss Carter Nelson, Cortez Mills, and some other talented youngsters who might take a step forward.And on defense, the DBs have been solid… but the takeaway numbers have to rise. Because most fans won’t see 6–6 as progress, no matter how challenging the schedule–especially not with every other Husker sport winning games and raising expectations. Nebraska needs impact players to actually hit.Keep it simple, Common Fans: enjoy spring ball… and vote for the Common Fans on Tuesday!Check out the episode on YouTube, listen on the Common Fan website, or find it on any audio platform where you get your podcasts.As always, GBR for LIFE! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Friend of the program Gary Sharp joins the Common Fans to discuss the big questions, most important position groups, and major storylines as the Nebraska football team kicks off spring practice. What’s the biggest question facing Nebraska football right now?Gary put it in a way that hits a nerve: Matt Rhule has to rebuild trust with a fan base that watched the bottom fall out late last season. It wasn’t just the record — it was the feeling that the foundation was cracking. The defense that was supposed to be Rhule’s calling card slipped. The team looked worn down. And Husker fans are left wondering what they should believe about this team going into the 2026 season. At the same time, there’s a weird upside to the current vibe: Nebraska isn’t winning the offseason as loudly this year. Fewer headlines. More “lay low and work.” After years of offseason championships, that might be exactly what this fan base needs.Mixed signals about the future of the offenseThe discussion naturally swung to the quarterback conversation, with Anthony Colandrea likely to take the reins as QB1 in the coming season. Gary framed it as something Nebraska hasn’t had in a while: real swagger at quarterback. Not performative swagger. Not “run out first and act like it means something” swagger. Real, fearless swagger.And that matters because it changes what Dana Holgorsen can do. The question we keep asking remains an open question: what offense is Dana running? How different will it look from the last three years? It depends on the QB, and it depends on whether the offensive line becomes what Nebraska thinks it can be — older, more athletic, and capable of letting the offense actually stress defenses with a power run game, motion, mesh, and using the middle of the field.What’s the position group that should worry everyone?The crew agrees: it’s the defensive line. Until we see pressure, disruption, and proof Nebraska can hold up in November, it’s the biggest concern. Nebraska has not run the ball or stopped the run nearly consistently enough, especially late in the season. Can this year’s D line be different? But the episode also offers a hopeful twist: the decision to run it back with many of the same defensive linemen might be an indication that the staff thinks last year was a scheme/fit problem, and not so much a talent problem. Will a new position coach and a different scheme unlock more production from the same players? What does success actually look like in 2026?Gary laid out three things that would be signs of progress in year four for Matt Rhule. All three are things that Nebraska hasn’t done in the Rhule era (or much of the last 10 years):Beat a ranked teamWin at home consistentlyBe better in November than SeptemberEveryone agrees: even if they get to six or seven wins, progress has to look like something more than just surviving.And yes: Vote for the Common Fans!The Common Fans survived Round 1 of Mike’l Severe’s bracket competition among local sports podcasts, beating Nebraska Basketball Hour 52% to 48%. They now stare down the barrel of a showdown with number one seed, the Pick Six Podcast. It’s David vs. Goliath. MySpace vs. Facebook. Whatever analogy you need — we are shamelessly asking for votes.Remember–enjoy spring ball!Even with so many questions, it’s OK to be excited for football! Embrace the spring practice period, start gearing up for fall, and allow a little optimism to creep back in. Check out the episode on YouTube, listen on the Common Fan website, or find it on any audio platform where you get your podcasts.As always, GBR for LIFE! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Former Nebraska Athletic Director Bill Moos released a nearly-700-page book (Crab Creek Chronicles), and the ensuing discussion has consumed Husker Nation for the last week. Friend of the program Mike’l Severe joins the Common Fans to discuss Moos’ revelations, the failures of leadership among university higher-ups, Frost’s shortcomings, and much more. What did Moos actually say about Scott Frost?The boys dig into the disclosure that’s perhaps drawing the most attention: Moos claiming he knew Frost wasn’t ready, but hired him anyway. Severe gives his take on why that explanation doesn’t really hold water, and the crew breaks down what an incredible failure of leadership it is to make such a decision. More broadly, many of Moos’ revelations fit the entire Frost-era vibe — the sweatpants energy, the weird decision-making, and the constant feeling that something was missing for Nebraska football.Running from Rutgers? Running from Oklahoma? Running from… the Big Ten?We talk through the reported moments where Frost allegedly didn’t want to play the 2020 Rutgers crossover game, didn’t want to play in a bowl game, and even tried to get out of the 2021 Oklahoma game — a game Husker fans had circled for years. While these individual stories have been covered in the past, Moos provides additional context from some of the more embarrassing moments of the Frost era. Then we pivot to Moos’ claim that Nebraska leadership was at least exploring a return to the Big 12. The crew agrees, that’s the ultimate “tuck your tail and run” move, and it taps into a core frustration fans feel: if Nebraska wants to be relevant again, you don’t back out of one of the premier conferences in college athletics…you figure out how to win in it.Is it really that dysfunctional up there?This episode hits the nerve Husker fans have felt many times before: the sense that the leadership surrounding Nebraska athletics is a dysfunctional mess. Moos’ book, Severe argues, essentially confirms what fans have feared: too many bosses, too many people holding the hammers, too many people trying to curry favor and operate behind the scenes. The boys also lament the fact that Nebraska athletics can feel like a small-town coffee shop where everybody knows something… but nobody says it out loud until years later.Dana Altman and the politics of decision-making.One of Moos’ biggest non-football revelations was the fact that he wanted to hire Dana Altman to be Nebraska’s basketball coach, but was overruled by then-Regent (now-Governor) Jim Pillen. The boys uniformly agree: it’s not a matter of Altman vs. Fred Hoiberg, but at the time, the vast majority of Husker fans would have celebrated the hiring of Altman. Severe calls it what it is: powerful people making sports decisions they aren’t qualified to make.So where are Husker fans right now?The timing of Moos’ book doesn’t exactly help the offseason vibes for Husker football fans. TJ points out that last year’s way-too-early schedule preview episode did 3,000+ views… this year’s struggled to hit 500. Severe compares the mood to 2002, when fans were disappointed, skeptical, and waiting to see if change was real. He does offer some hope — returning production on defense, optimism about the staff changes, and a path where Nebraska rebounds — and that’s where we wrap up. Mike’l exhorts Husker fans to stick with it. Nebraska basketball looked hopeless for decades… and now they are in the midst of their greatest season in history. The same can happen for the football program. Check out the episode on YouTube, listen on the Common Fan website, or find it on any audio platform where you get your podcasts.As always, GBR for LIFE! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Friend of the program and fellow Common Fan Nic Olsen joins the crew as they dissect the 2026 Nebraska football schedule. It’s never too early to look ahead, and the coming season is a doozy. Can the Huskers break through with a win over a highly ranked team? Or any ranked team? Can they avoid slip-ups against teams they “should” beat? Can they finally get the Hawkeye off their back? We discuss it all in this fun and frivolous episode full of lots of laughs and yes, even a little bit of hope. Is the non-conference slate “boring”… or exactly what Nebraska needs?Ohio, Bowling Green, and North Dakota aren’t going to sell out your emotional bandwidth like a Colorado or Oklahoma home-and-home — but the Common Fans make the point: in the playoff era, wins are more important than anything else. We talk about the Solich Bowl (and whether Frank shows up wearing a half-Ohio/half-Nebraska shirt), the eternal danger of MAC teams knocking off Power 4 teams, and what we hope to see in the first three contests of the year, before the reality of Big Ten play smacks us in the face. Can Nebraska get to 6 wins with room to spare?We zero in on the true “must-win” Big Ten tier — Michigan State, Maryland, and Rutgers — and debate what “take care of business” actually looks like for a program still searching for consistency. Matty breaks down the “who do they play the week before?” logic, Nic brings the MAC scouting report like a true sicko, and TJ lays out the uncomfortable truth: if you can’t beat the teams you’re supposed to beat, even a bowl game might be in jeopardy.What does “prove it” look like in Year 4 of Matt Rhule?It’s been a common theme for the Common Fans this offseason: Nebraska fans are tired of offseason championships and moral victories. We talk about identity (does Nebraska even know who it is?), the portal/fresh staff reality, and why the bar in 2026 isn’t “be competitive.” It’s “win one you’re not supposed to.” That leads straight into the monster stretch: Indiana (yes, the national champs), Oregon in Eugene, and Ohio State coming to town.Is this schedule actually as impossible as everyone is acting like it is?Here’s the core thesis: if Nebraska does what it should do — win the non-conference games and beat Michigan State/Maryland/Rutgers — you’re sitting at 6 wins (understanding that Nebraska football is not in a place to take anyone for granted). From there, how many wins can they get against the following: Washington, Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, Oregon, and Ohio State. The Common Fans argue Nebraska fans shouldn’t preemptively accept mediocrity just because the schedule looks scary in February.And finally…Nebraska needs to beat Iowa.We don’t sugarcoat it. The frustration is real, the history is painful, and the “we should have won” list is long enough to qualify as an audiobook. MattyO calls it the thorn in the paw. Nic says the quiet part out loud: “If you can’t beat Iowa, what are we doing here?” Geoff brings the November doom. TJ admits he needs to see it before he can pick it.This episode is part coping mechanism, part therapy session, and part offseason adrenaline shot. We go game-by-game, talk ourselves into optimism, talk ourselves back out of it, and then somehow end up planning a group trip to Oregon for the big one against the Ducks. Check out the episode on YouTube, listen on the Common Fan website, or find it on any audio platform where you get your podcasts.As always, GBR for LIFE! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Common Fans welcome old friend Evan Bland back to the program for another trip to the Blandstands, and we spend a big chunk of the show digging into what Matt Rhule has to do to show progress in 2026. We hit the excitement, the concerns, the “prove-it mode” vibes, and what all of this says about where the program is actually heading in the face of a brutal 2026 schedule.What does Matt Rhule have to do in 2026?The schedule is nasty. The fanbase is restless. And “progress” isn’t going to feel like progress unless Nebraska finally beats somebody it’s not supposed to beat. We talk big-picture identity, what Indiana’s rise tells us is possible, and why “prove-it mode” might be the most honest place Nebraska has been in years.The intrigue surrounding Anthony ColandreaEvan shares nuggets from his reporting on Colandrea’s background, his path through the transfer portal, and why Nebraska’s late pivot might end up shaping the entire season. The crew talks style of play, the “gunslinger” element, and why a quarterback who can move isn’t just a luxury in college football — it might be the difference between punting and putting a team away.Plus – Colandrea’s career turnover numbers come up (because they have to), but so does the bigger point: Nebraska has watched quarterbacks turn it over anyway — and still struggle to extend drives. If you’re going to live with some chaos, wouldn’t you rather get the explosive plays and third-down magic that come with it?Is Dana Holgorsen finally going to cook?The boys assess how the combination of a new direction at quarterback, the impressive transfer portal additions on the offensive line, and two new offensive line coaches might actually unlock the Holgorsen offense fans have been waiting to see. Will we see a run-first offense that also incorporates some of the dynamic elements Holgorsen is known for? Portal grade: Are we upgraded… or still incomplete?Evan gives his overall portal grade, with clear “wins” (hello, offensive line and linebacker) and the one area that continues to hang over everything like a storm cloud: the defensive line. The Huskers need their D line portal additions to hit, and they need some young Blackshirts to take the next step in 2026.This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! Check out the episode on YouTube, listen on the Common Fan website, or find it on any audio platform where you get your podcasts.As always, GBR for LIFE! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Brian Christopherson joins the Common Fans to take a hard look at Nebraska’s transfer portal class: what the Huskers added, what they didn’t, and what it all says about the direction of the program.The boys go position-by-position through Nebraska’s portal haul, grading each group and discussing lingering questions. Along the way, the conversation keeps circling back to one central theme: we won’t know for sure until the Huskers prove it on the field in the fall. A Reset at QuarterbackNebraska’s quarterback room went from sparse to crowded in a matter of days. After Dylan Raiola’s departure and the brief Lenny Minchey saga, the Huskers pivoted quickly, landing Anthony Colandrea from UNLV and welcoming Daniel KaeIin back into the fold.Colandrea brings proven production, mobility, and a fearless play style that Nebraska simply hasn’t had at quarterback — the kind of player who can turn broken plays into first downs. Add in KaeIin, TJ Lateef, and mobile 2026 addition Vibabul, and suddenly the Huskers have competition and depth again. It’s not a guarantee of success, but it’s a much healthier foundation than where things stood just weeks ago.The Trenches Tell the Real StoryIf there’s one place Nebraska clearly prioritized in the portal, it’s the offensive line. The additions of Brendan Black (from Iowa State), Tree Babalade (from South Carolina), and Paul Mubanga (from LSU), paired with the hiring of not one but two offensive line coaches, make the message unmistakable: Nebraska wants to pound the rock.The boys are anxious to see how Matt Rhule’s squad goes about building an offense that can run the ball, protect a mobile quarterback, and control games late — something Husker fans have been begging for going back many years, across multiple coaching staffs. Whether it works remains to be seen, but philosophically, this feels like a meaningful shift rather than another offseason slogan.The Most Underwhelming Position May Have Been the Most ImportantThe most uncomfortable part of the conversation centers on the defensive line. Nebraska needed help stopping the run and getting after the quarterback, and while the Huskers added three players to their D line room, it’s fair to wonder whether enough difference-makers arrived.BC explains why the portal can be ruthless at that position — top-tier defensive linemen disappear fast, prices soar, and schools are often forced to choose where to spend their resources. Nebraska appears to have chosen the offensive line over chasing elite defensive line talent, betting instead on development, retention, and a new defensive system to unlock more from the players already on the roster.That bet may define the season.Linebackers, the Secondary, and a Bet on ContinuityLinebacker quietly emerges as one of the stronger portal groups, highlighted by Owen Chambliss, who knows new defensive coordinator Rob Aurich’s system and could become a centerpiece immediately. Additions in the secondary, especially Dwayne McDougal, aim to stabilize the back end after a late-season collapse.Just as notable, though, is where Nebraska didn’t add — namely at running back. BC explains why the staff appears comfortable betting the existing room after Emmett Johnson’s departure.What It All Means Heading Into 2026This episode isn’t a victory lap or a doom spiral. It’s a reality check. The big questions remain unanswered:Can a more mobile quarterback unlock the offense?Will the rebuilt offensive line deliver?And can the defense, especially up front, take a real step forward?Those answers won’t come until fall. But for now, the roster is in place as Husker Nation waits for spring ball.This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! Check out the episode on YouTube, listen on the Common Fan website, or find it on any audio platform where you get your podcasts.As always, GBR for LIFE! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Now that the transfer portal is finally, officially (mostly) closed, the Common Fans zoom out and take a look at some major questions for Nebraska football as the program heads into a critical offseason full of uncertainty. The season ended with a thud, the critical position groups have been reshaped in a matter of weeks, and Husker Nation is firmly in “trust, but verify” mode heading into 2026.Should We Be Concerned About Special Teams? This question has become very real, very fast — because the smoke around Mike Ekeler potentially leaving Nebraska is starting to feel like a forest fire. The guys react to Matt Rhule’s pointed public comments, and take issue with some of his seemingly passive aggressive digs at Ekeler. Bottom line: if Ekeler goes, yes, special teams becomes a concern again.Ekeler is the one assistant under this staff who has proven he can flip a unit overnight — and after two years of special teams misery prior to Ek’s arrival, it’s hard to just assume Nebraska will stay solid without him. Rhule insists the system will remain and other coaches can carry it forward… but the Common Fans aren’t ready to grant that benefit of the doubt without seeing it.Will the Transfer Portal Additions Make All the Difference? Going into a critical fourth season of the Matt Rhule era, “nice additions” aren’t enough — Nebraska needs hits, not just rotational guys. The guys agree: for this roster to take a real step forward, 80–90% of these additions need to be meaningful contributors, especially on both lines of scrimmage.The discussion keeps circling back to the same reality: Nebraska is building a roster that looks older, more experienced, and more physically ready — but the portal additions need to prove it on the field. The portal class might not solve everything, but it has to solve enough to keep Nebraska from getting shoved around again.How Will the Offense Change with Anthony Colandrea Under Center? If Colandrea is THE GUY for 2026, the Common Fans are begging for one thing: an actual offensive identity. With every quarterback on the roster now more mobile than Dylan Raiola, plus new offensive line coaching hires (including a run game coordinator), the expectation is clear: more movement, more RPOs/zone read, more designed QB run threats, and a real commitment to pounding the rock.But there’s still the Dana Holgorsen question: can he evolve, adjust, and build something dynamic… or are we headed for more “great scripted start, then total confusion” football? The offseason theme holds: we’ll believe it when we see it.Can Rob Aurich Pull a Bo Pelini?In 2003, Frank Solich hired a young defensive coordinator by the name of Bo Pelini. The team’s defense drastically improved, forcing a school record 44 turnovers and helping the team to a 9 win season after going 7-7 the year before. After the final three games of the 2025 season, Nebraska needs that kind of defensive flip right now. The guys talk about what’s encouraging: new defensive coordinator Rob Aurich’s track record getting after the quarterback, new defensive staff, and bringing a couple of trusted players with him to help install the system. The bottom line? Nebraska needs a defense that can stop the run, pressure the QB, and get off the field on third down. Anything less won’t cut it with the brutal schedule in 2026.The Common Fans will be here all offseason to walk through the chaos — and as soon as the Big Ten drops the official schedule, you can bet the way-too-early predictions episode is coming.This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! Check out the episode on YouTube, listen on the Common Fan website, or find it on any audio platform where you get your podcasts.As always, GBR for LIFE! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Common Fans discuss transfer portal madness, a completely reshaped quarterback room, big swings on the offensive and defensive lines, and what it all means for 2026. They also share their thoughts on Dylan Raiola’s move to Oregon, Mike Ekeler rumors, the excitement surrounding Nebraska basketball, and much more! A New Year, A New QB RoomNebraska’s quarterback room has been completely remade heading into 2026. After the brief “Lenny Minchey Era” came and went in about 24 hours, the Big Red pivoted fast.The Huskers land UNLV standout Anthony Colandrea, a dual-threat with over 7,500 career passing yards, 1,100 rushing yards, and 61 total touchdowns.Even better: Bellevue West product and Elite 11 QB Danny Kaelin is coming home, giving Nebraska three scholarship QBs (Colandrea, Kaelin, and TJ Lateef) with real D1 experience to compete for the starting job next season. The guys talk about fit, upside, and why having an experienced QB room matters more than ever in the portal era.Building in the Trenches: O-Line, D-Line, and DevelopmentOn offense, Nebraska has two returning anchors (Justin Evans Jenkins and Elijah Pritchett) and three big portal additions from South Carolina, Iowa State, and LSU.Is this an indictment of a certain former staffer’s offensive line development… or just the reality of needing to win now in Year 4? The crew wrestles with that question. On defense, multiple new faces arrive at linebacker and along the defensive line, but the harsh reality is these can’t just be depth pieces — they all have to hit.The crew also kicks around a bigger philosophical question: in the portal era, is true “development” dying, or does Nebraska still have to be a developmental program at its core?Raiola to Oregon, Ekeler Rumors, and MoreDylan Raiola to Oregon: should he have put out some sort of message or announcement thanking Nebraska and Husker fans? Do we really care?And how might Husker handle it if he lights it up for the Ducks? Rumblings about Special Teams Coordinator Mike Ekeler potentially drawing interest elsewhere have the boys practically shouting into the mic: “Pay that man his money.”The Common Fans also give a special shoutout to the Nebraska Men’s Basketball team as they continue to chase Husker hoops history. This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! Check out the episode on YouTube, listen on the Common Fan website, or find it on any audio platform where you get your podcasts.As always, GBR for LIFE! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Common Fans got so fired up during their Las Vegas Bowl recap episode, they forgot to award Corn Cobs for the game. In this supplement to the full episode, the boys discuss their Corn Cob recipients and find some silver linings from the game. Check out this supplemental episode on YouTube, listen on the Common Fan website, or find it on any audio platform where you get your podcasts.As always, GBR for LIFE! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Since the Las Vegas Bowl, there’s been no shortage of Husker news — and even less shortage of angst in Husker Nation. On this edition of the Common Fan Podcast, the boys air their grievances about Nebraska’s 44–22 loss to Utah, react to major transfer portal news, and zoom out to the big-picture question hanging over the program as we turn the page to 2026: based on the last three games of the 2025 season, do we have clarity on anything going into 2026? Kenny Minchey Transfers to NebraskaThe news broke right before the Common Fans hit record: Notre Dame QB Kenny Minchey is headed to Lincoln.Geoff in Lincoln breaks down what Husker fans are getting: a QB with a big arm, the ability to push the ball downfield, and (importantly) some mobility—something the crew has been begging to see integrated into Nebraska’s offensive identity.The boys are excited to see more from Minchey, but also admit they are officially in “show me” mode.The Las Vegas Bowl: A Fast Start, Then the Same Old MovieNebraska scored on its first two possessions by shoving the ball down Utah’s throat, and for a moment it felt like the Huskers might actually belong on the same field.Then the bottom fell out — again. The defense couldn’t stop the run, couldn’t stop the pass, and the offense never overcame the adjustments made by the Utes’ staff. Sadly, the way the game played out was not at all surprising, and the anger among the fan base is still boiling several days after the game. Everything Should Be on the Table for Nebraska Football in 2026The crew considers a thesis: no one should feel comfortable heading into next season — players or coaches. To be clear: no one is calling for any firings. But everyone should be feeling uncomfortable with how the season ended. The broader frustration isn’t “why aren’t we Georgia?” It’s: why can’t Nebraska be a consistent Top 25 program—8 to 10 wins, a team we’re proud of, and no more November faceplants?The crew debates patience vs. urgency in Year 4 under Rhule, especially with a brutal schedule looming and a fan base that feels like it’s living on the edge of a cliff.The Backwards Camo Hat, The Vibes, and the “Earn It” StandardYes, the infamous backwards camo hat gets its own segment — because when you get embarrassed three games in a row, everything becomes fair game.The guys agree on the simple solution: win, and nobody cares about the hat.This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast. Check out the episode on YouTube, listen on the Common Fan website, or find it on any audio platform where you get your podcasts.As always, GBR for LIFE! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Common Fans discuss the latest news around Nebraska’s upcoming bowl game against Utah, and look at three questions heading into the matchup vs the Utes.Kyle Whittingham to MichiganThe Utah head coach - who was already planning to leave Salt Lake City after this season - has officially been named the head man at the University of Michigan. Will this development create uncertainty for the Utes? Will it benefit the Huskers?Whatever the case, Whittingham is undeniably one of the good guys in college football, and all three Common Fans agree the cheaters in Ann Arbor do not deserve him. He is one of the best coaches in the country, and he is a clear upgrade for the Wolverines. What should we expect from TJ Lateef in the bowl game?Is Lateef fully healthy? Matt Rhule says he looks good to go and ready to run the offense.The boys wonder if offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen will open up the playbook, having Lateef run the ball and possibly even mixing in some trick plays. The Las Vegas Bowl will be a big opportunity for Lateef to cement his status as the starter going into 2026. How well will Nebraska’s offense run the ball without Emmett Johnson?The crew gives one final shoutout to EJ, the best back Nebraska has had in at least a decade. How will the Big Red run the ball without him?While backups Isaiah Mozee, Kwinten Ives, and Mekhi Nelson have shown promise at times, none of them even has 20 carries on the season. There are a lot of unknowns, simply because of how much #21 carried the load all year.Will the Blackshirts be able to stop the run?Utah comes into the Las Vegas Bowl at #2 in the country in rushing, averaging nearly 270 yards on the ground per game. Rushing defense, of course, has been a challenge for Nebraska’s defense in 2025.Can the Husker D come up with any answers? Two of the Utes’ best offensive linemen will forego the bowl game to begin preparing for the NFL draft. Will that make enough of a difference for Nebraska’s defense to slow down the run?This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! A very heartfelt Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from TJ, MattyO, and Geoff in Lincoln, and as always, GBR for LIFE! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/ Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Common Fans dive into the biggest developments surrounding Nebraska football this week. From a spicy Matt Rhule press conference to personnel changes to an opportunity in the Las Vegas Bowl, there’s a lot on the line as 2025 turns into 2026. The boys discuss what it all means, and also share their Christmas wish lists for Husker football. Matt Rhule’s Press ConferenceRhule pushed back hard on any suggestion that Nebraska is in a “reset,” calling that idea ridiculous while acknowledging the late-season slide wasn’t good enough. Rhule acknowledged the team should have won nine games instead of seven this year — owning the results while still defending his progress and process. The boys discuss Rhule’s assertion that he inherited a mess. While that may be true, Rhule has mostly refrained from making those types of statements for most of his tenure. The coach also referenced getting his staff fully in place and pointed to the incremental year-by-year improvement of the team’s record, while speaking frankly about the work still ahead. The Common Fans react to what felt like a more emotional Rhule at the podium.Staff Moves Signal a New DirectionThe Huskers made significant changes in the wake of the rough end to the regular season, with John Butler (defensive coordinator), Donovan Raiola (offensive line coach), and Terry Bradden (defensive line coach) among those who were let go. The crew hones in on two new hires in particular: Georgia Tech’s Geep Wade as offensive line coach, and Lonnie Teasley as run game coordinator. Both have significant experience as Power Five offensive line coaches, and both are known as strong recruiters. The Common Fans speculate–and hope–that this is a signal that Coach Rhule is shifting the offense to a more run-heavy approach. Common Fan Christmas Wish ListsThe boys wrap up by providing their Christmas wish lists for Nebraska football this year. They discuss everything from hoping for a bowl win to knowing who the next starting QB will be to beating a top team in 2026.Many thanks to all the Common Fan listeners this year. We love doing this and we will continue to be coming out with new episodes throughout the entire offseason. This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! As always, GBR for LIFE! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Common Fans discuss the biggest news of the week: the announcement that two year starting quarterback Dylan Raiola will be entering the transfer portal. They also discuss what it means for 2026, the upcoming bowl game, and some of the news around college football. The Raiola ReactionThe boys give their immediate, unfiltered reactions — and they may not be what you expect. They talk about why some fans likely feel disappointment, why others feel relief, and how the transfer portal era has changed the way we process these moments. A few years ago, losing a five-star QB would’ve felt like the sky was falling. Now? It’s still big, but it’s also the world we live in. Ultimately, we wish Dylan well, but it’s time for the Nebraska football team to look forward. Freed Up Cash FlowThe boys dig into a slightly uncomfortable conversation: value. In a world of NIL and revenue sharing, it’s fair to ask whether performance matched investment — and what Nebraska can do now that a significant amount of funds have been freed up. Can they build a better roster by spreading those dollars across multiple impact players, especially in the trenches? And was Raiola’s skill set ever a clean fit for what Nebraska is trying to be offensively?Portal Season = MassiveWith Emmett Johnson off to the NFL and Raiola on the way out, Nebraska has significant work to do in the offseason. They absolutely need to hit on most of the players they add in the portal. Speaking of, they need at least one QB (and maybe two), a running back, probably an offensive lineman or two, and they need a major infusion in the front seven on defense. Additionally, which current players might be hitting the portal? It’s a reality in modern day college football, and the players Rhule and his staff target will to some extent be determined by who they lose off of the roster. Reset Year, Or Just Reality?The Common Fans close out by looking ahead to 2026: a brutal schedule, a fan base that’s tired, and the debate over whether or not Nebraska is in the midst of a reset. Can they find a way to win the bowl game? Can the team exceed expectations in 2026? Are we in the midst of a rebuild? Or is it simply reloading in a sport where everyone is turning over rosters every year?This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! As always, GBR for LIFE! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Since the Nebraska football team’s Black Friday loss to Iowa, there have been some seismic changes around the Husker program. On this edition of the Common Fan Podcast, TJ Birkel, Matty Owens Sr., and Geoff in Lincoln give their thoughts on the latest news, and look at the biggest questions hanging over the team heading into the Las Vegas Bowl.John Butler and Donovan Raiola Relieved of Their DutiesBoth defensive coordinator John Butler and offensive line coach Donovan Raiola were fired in the week following the Iowa game. One could argue Butler’s unit played well enough in the first 10 games of the season, but the defense fell off a cliff in the final two games of the year. The crew discusses the hire of Rob Aurich from San Diego State to replace Butler, and pontificates on what needs to improve on the defensive side of the ball in 2026. Donovan Raiola also had his moments, and his offensive line seemed to do a pretty good job of paving the way for Emmett Johnson in the second half of the season. But Nebraska’s O line has left plenty to be desired in recent years, between the sacks in 2025, to the lack of NFL draft picks on Raiola’s watch. Raiola’s replacement–Geep Wade from Georgia Tech–has already been named, and appears to be an upgrade. Emmett Johnson to the NFLEmmett Johnson, Nebraska’s best running back in more than a decade, the 2025 Big Ten Running Back of the Year, and the heart and soul of this year’s football team, announced he will be forgoing his senior season and entering the NFL draft. The Common Fans are not surprised with Johnson’s decision, which almost certainly means he is out for the bowl game. The boys pay tribute to EJ, and look ahead to who might carry the load in the bowl game.  Huskers to the Las Vegas BowlIt’s officially officially official: Nebraska will play Utah in the Las Vegas Bowl on December 31. The Utes are the #15 ranked team in the country, and have the nation’s second best rushing offense, averaging almost 270 yards on the ground per game. They also have a rushing quarterback. On paper, this matchup is…not good, to say the least. That said, it will be another opportunity for Matt Rhule’s boys to try to take down a ranked team, and it’s a chance to head into the offseason with some momentum and optimism. Rhule, offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen, and interim defensive coordinator Phil Snow need to pull out all the stops to try to figure out a way to get a win in the bowl game. Biggest Question in a Big Month for Nebraska FootballWhat is the future of quarterback Dylan Raiola? Or TJ Lateef for that matter? What are Nebraska’s biggest needs in the transfer portal? Will there be more musical chairs among the coaching staff? It’s the most important offseason of Matt Rhule’s tenure in Lincoln, and there are arguably more questions than at any point in the last three years. How Rhule navigates this offseason will go a long way towards determining how his entire time as Nebraska’s head football coach is viewed. This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! As always, GBR for LIFE! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/ Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Nebraska’s regular season ended with a 40–16 gut punch that left Husker Nation stunned, exhausted, and questioning everything. On this edition of the Common Fan Podcast, TJ Birkel, Matty Owens Sr., and Geoff in Lincoln sit down shortly after the meltdown in Memorial Stadium to process a rivalry loss that felt like a referendum on the entire Matt Rhule era. The conversation is part therapy session, part postmortem, and part rallying cry.“Until Further Notice” – The New Reality for Nebraska FootballThe guys open with a declaration: Nebraska football has officially reached “until further notice” status under Matt Rhule. There is no more benefit of the doubt. No one is calling for Matt Rhule’s job, but the days of optimistic projections, culture speeches, and positive preseason vibes carrying water for the program are over. After back-to-back-to-back November collapses, and a squandered friendly schedule, fans have earned the right to be critical—and this loss crystallized why.Emmett Johnson, the Only Corn Cob RecipientFor the second straight week, the Corn Cob segment is essentially one man. Emmett Johnson once again fought to deliver another brilliant performance, singlehandedly keeping the offense afloat. The guys talk about his emotional moment on the field postgame, the likelihood of him turning pro, and the reality that Nebraska may have just wasted one of its best running back seasons in a decade. A Comedy of Errors That Wasn’t FunnyThe boys break down the turning points: the frustrating non-targeting call on Jacory Barney’s fumble, and two back-breaking second-and-four sequences where Nebraska abandoned the run for reasons passing understanding. Each moment becomes a microcosm of Nebraska’s larger identity problem: predictable when they should be adaptable, stubborn when they should be smart, and chaotic when they should be complementary.Big Picture: Identity Crisis, Defensive Regression, and the Rule of Year ThreeThe second half of the show zooms out. The guys confront the uncomfortable comparison between Matt Rhule’s record and Mike Riley’s through the same point. They dive into Nebraska’s defensive collapse, the inability to stop the run, the non-existent pass rush, and the maddening lack of offensive identity. They question everything—staff, scheme, development, philosophy—while acknowledging that Rhule deserves the chance to make changes and evolve.Bowl Game, Portal Season, and the Winter AheadDespite the despair, the episode closes with a sliver of perspective. Nebraska made back-to-back bowl games for the first time in more than a decade. Portal season offers opportunity. Change is possible. Hope—however battered—still flickers. But the message is clear: no more speeches, no more slogans, no more benefit of the doubt. It’s time for proof.This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! As always, GBR for LIFE! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Throw out all the records. Throw out all the stats. Throw out anything that has happened this season. It’s Iowa week, and it is time for all of Husker Nation to unite against the hated Hawkeyes. Looking at Iowa’s history: The Common Fans lay out the facts to explain why Nebraska football is and always will be superior to Iowa. The Hawkeyes claim five national championships, but two are from the 1920s, and for the other three–from 1956, 1958, and 1960–Iowa didn’t finish #1 in either the AP poll or the coaches poll. Nebraska owns 46 conference championships, which ranks second in the nation all time. Iowa, by contrast, has 15. Iowa’s record all time is 708-585-39, good for a .546 winning percentage that is 65th best in the country.Nebraska, by contrast, is 931-434-40, which amounts to a .677 winning percentage that is 10th all time. Iowa has one Heisman Trophy winner ever, Nile Kinninck in 1939. This was such a big deal in Hawkeye Nation that they named their stadium after him. Nebraska has three Heisman trophy winners, all of which occurred after World War Two, including one which happened in this century. And of course, Nebraska still owns the advantage in the all time head-to-head matchup between the two teams, 30-22.The list goes on and on; you get the picture. No matter what has happened in recent years, the Common Fans are red ‘til they’re dead. Nebraska will always be the superior program, and it’s always better to be a Cornhusker. Time to buckle in, Common Fans:Have there been frustrating moments this season? Yes. Did the Huskers once again leave some wins on the table? It would appear so. Are there things this team needs to address in the offseason? Absolutely.And guess what: we will have eight months to digest this 2025 season, and to talk about all the ways in which Matt Rhule’s program needs to improve.In the meantime, it’s time for Husker Nation to unite, from Scottsbluff to South Sioux City; from Alliance to Falls City; from Omaha to McCook; from sea to shining sea. IT’S IOWA HATE WEEK!!!!!This is the life we’ve chosen, and it’s time to beat the Hawkeyes.  Celebrating 150 episodes for the Common Fan Podcast:One final note: the Common Fans didn’t even realize it, but the Penn State game recap episode was their 150th episode. The boys reflect on this podcast journey and thank all the loyal Common Fan listeners for a thoroughly enjoyable ride. It’s only been two years, and there is a lot more to come. This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! As always, GBR for LIFE! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Nebraska football walked into Happy Valley on Saturday night needing a breakthrough — and instead got bulldozed. The Huskers were outplayed, outcoached, and overpowered in a 37–10 loss to Penn State that leaves the fan base frustrated, salty, and searching for answers. On this week’s episode of the Common Fan Podcast, the crew breaks down everything that went wrong in State College and what it means for Matt Rhule heading into the Iowa game.Slim pickings for Corn Cobs: The guys hand out their weekly Corn Cobs — and this one gets interesting. Geoff goes contrarian with a nod to punter-turned-missile Archie Wilson for showing some fire in a late-hit penalty. Matty O sticks with the obvious: Emmett Johnson, who once again carried the offense with 151 total yards despite having to break tackles five yards behind the line just to get back to even. TJ highlights linebacker Jacob Bauer, one of the few bright spots on a bad night for the Blackshirts.Three years in, this shouldn’t be happening:The crew discusses AD Troy Dannen’s early-season comments about Nebraska being “three years into a rebuild” — but pushes back hard. Is year three long enough to expect the Huskers not to get manhandled at the line of scrimmage? The boys discuss Penn State’s struggles coming intothe game, why this wasn’t a great Nittany Lion team, and why all of that makes it even more inexplicable that Nebraska came out of a bye week completely flat. On the stakes for the Iowa game now: The conversation quickly turns to what Friday now represents. Nebraska sits at 7–4. Lose to Iowa, and you’re suddenly staring at the very real possibility of finishing 7–6 for a second consecutive year after another 5–1 start. Beat Iowa, and the season feels salvageable — maybe even encouraging. But the guys agree: the seat doesn’t get “hot” with a loss… but it might start heating up. This is as urgent as a regular-season finale without playoff implications can get. On the offensive identity and the QB conversation: The Common Fans dig into the offense’s lingering identity problem. What exactly is Nebraska’s scheme? What is it trying to be? And how should that shape the Dylan Raiola vs. TJ Lateef conversation moving forward? No one blames Lateef for the loss — but the guys question the play-calling, the lack of RPOs, and the absence of creativity. They agree both quarterbacks bring valuable tools… but the staff needs a real offensive blueprint before either can thrive.On accountability, urgency, and a fan Base at its limitFrom concerns about Rhule’s messaging to frustration with local media predictions to a raw sense of being “bamboozled,” this episode captures the emotional whiplash of modern Nebraska football. The guys close by emphasizing the stakes, the rivalry, and the opportunity: beat Iowa, steady the narrative, and head into bowl season with momentum.This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! As always, GBR for LIFE! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Mitch Sherman joins the Common Fans to discuss TJ Lateef, the remainder of Nebraska’s season, the outlook for recruiting and the transfer portal, possible bowl destinations, and much more! Assessing Coach Rhule’s comments about having the resources to compete for the best players in the nation: There will be more resources, both in the form of dollars in the NIL collective and in sponsorship deals for players, to help shore up the roster. It’s important not to forget the need to keep current impact players on the roster.Money isn’t always the deciding factor in where a player lands, but Nebraska feels like it can be competitive with anyone now.As always, offensive and defensive linemen will be a priority, along with at least one running back. Looking at Nebraska’s win over UCLA:It was an excellent first outing from true freshman quarterback TJ Lateef, and the playbook wasn’t exactly watered down. The offense ran a lot of the same things they would have run if Dylan Raiola had been playing. Moving forward, ideally Nebraska would be able to put a game like that away, and not let the opponent back in it. On Emmett Johnson’s Heisman Trophy chances:Realistically, Mitch doesn’t think EJ has a shot to win the prestigious award.The momentum among the national media, and the campaign being run by the University, really got going in November which is just too late. That said, Johnson is likely in line to be a 1st team All Conference player, and possibly an All American. Looking ahead to Penn State:With Penn State’s win against Michigan State over the weekend, the Nittany Lions can still make a bowl game, and will have plenty to play for. With quarterback Drew Allar out for the remainder of the season with an injury, it will be critical for Nebraska to stop the run. PSU’s defense is formidable. They will have players who can come off the edge and get after the quarterback in a way that only Michigan has done against the Huskers this season. Can Nebraska keep both Dylan Raiola and TJ Lateef in 2026?Lateef will almost certainly be coveted, and will likely get an offer to leave Nebraska.Will the Huskers be willing to pay top dollar for two quarterbacks? Possible bowl destinations for the Big Red:The Music City Bowl in Nashville is looking increasingly likely as a possible bowl destination.One of the Florida bowls would be an indication of a strong finish to the season.Whatever the case, Nebraska will definitely not be returning to New York City this year. This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! As always, GBR for LIFE! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Common Fans discuss Nebraska’s bounce-back win against UCLA, TJ Lateef’s coming out party, Emmett Johnson’s continued dominance, and much more. On true freshman quarterback TJ Lateef: Lateef sparkled in his debut as Nebraska’s quarterback, leading the Big Red past the Bruins in front of 20,000+ Husker fans at the Rose Bowl. The offense seemed to find a spark they have been missing in recent games.Lateef’s ability to run with the football is such a benefit to the offense.On do-everything running back Emmett Johnson: What can’t Emmett Johnson do? EJ continues to shine. He continues to top his own performance from previous games, seemingly getting better, stronger, and faster as the season goes on. Will Johnson return for his senior year in 2026? The Common Fans speculate on the pros and cons from a player’s perspective. Hopefully, the prospect of more money in college, being a potential Heisman candidate, and drastically improving his draft stock are enough to bring him back for one more season. On the performance by the defense:It wasn’t a perfect performance by the Blackshirts, and they were gashed by running quarterback Nico Iamaleava.That said, they made critical stops when the Huskers absolutely had to have them, and they did enough for Nebraska to win the game. John Butler’s unit has a lot of young talent, and optimism is sky high for the future. On the Nebraska crowd at the Rose Bowl: Husker Nation does it again! 20,000+ fellow Common Fans take over the Rose Bowl in what was an electric night to be a Cornhusker.Common Fan co-host T.J. Birkel was in the house, and shares his experiences on the night. On the future of Nebraska football:Vibes are sky high among the Common Fans right now. No, it hasn’t been a perfect season, but the Big Red continues to improve, and Matt Rhule is committed to being in Lincoln for the long term. The Huskers have a real chance to finish strong this season, and they have one of the youngest rosters in all of college football. Rhule will have to figure out how to get over the hump, and go from being good to great, but it feels like a strong culture and foundation are in place for much future success. This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! As always, GBR for LIFE! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Evan Bland joins the Common Fans to discuss the loss to USC, Dylan Raiola’s injury, and the upcoming game against UCLA. On the atmosphere on Saturday night: The blackout at Memorial Stadium was next level. It was an incredibly impressive effort from the fan base. The blackout was particularly beneficial for the big recruiting guest list that was on hand. On the game against USC: Nebraska played about as well as they could for nearly two and a half quarters.This wasn’t Minnesota–Nebraska showed up ready, they had a good plan, and they played well for large chunks of the game. Defense did everything you could have asked them to do. Additionally, the Huskers probably win without Dylan Raiola getting hurt. But this one was unique, in the sense that it involved some bad luck as well. In the end, they fell short of an opportunity to make a statement on a national stage. On the two third quarter timeouts:On the 4th and 1 play, Nebraska was going to go for it, and ultimately changed their mind. On the other timeout–it’s still unclear why Matt Rhule used the timeout in that moment. Huskers playing too fast and loose with their timeouts. On Dylan Raiola’s injury: Recovery time according to Rhule is 8-12 weeks. He may miss some winter conditioning, but the expectation is that he will be ready for spring ball. Raiola still expected to be a leader for this team: mentoring TJ Lateef, sitting in on game planning meetings, and generally supporting the team. On bouncing back from the USC loss and the importance of the remainder of the season: Players and coaches talked this week about how anxious they are to get back out there. Like a closer in baseball who blows a save, the Huskers are ready to get the bad taste out of their mouth and try to get back in the W column.Year three still needs to be about upward momentum. Even with the loss of Raiola, and even if it’s not a traditional “Year 3 leap” for Matt Rhule, progress is important. The next step for Nebraska is to be a team that can finish strong. What record would constitute success for this Nebraska team? They need at least one more win, preferably two. Looking ahead to UCLA:You normally don’t see a team fire its coach, pivot to an interim coach, and then have the kind of resurgence the Bruins have had. Interim head coach Tim Skipper and interim offensive coordinator Jerry Neuheisel have been bright spots. Quarterback Nico Iamaleava can be expected to run the ball as much as any quarterback Nebraska has seen. UCLA does have some talent, although Nebraska has been the more explosive offense of the two. Expect the Huskers to have heavy doses of Emmett Johnson, as well as some designed keepers for Lateef. This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! As always, GBR for LIFE! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Common Fans discuss Nebraska’s heartbreaking loss to USC. Huskers looked ready to play and came out strong on an electric night in Lincoln. Coaching staff had a solid game plan, as the defense completely took away the Trojans’ passing game and the offense scored on two of its four 1st half drives. Nebraska ultimately couldn’t close the deal, like so many recent heartbreak, gut punch losses. Pivotal 3rd quarter ultimately turned the tide in favor of the Trojans: Going 3-and-out on the opening drive of the 2nd half is inexcusable. The Common Fans hate the deep shot on the opening play of the half with the fire of a thousand suns. After the Blackshirts force a pick, disaster strikes for Nebraska. At 1st and 10 from the USC 23 yard line, the Huskers dial up another pass, during which Dylan Raiola fumbles and gets injured–an injury we now know will end his season. Hard to understand why the Big Red didn’t pound the rock, considering how much success Emmett Johnson had on the ground.Even after such an unfortunate turn of events, the defense stood tall again, forcing a turnover on downs and giving the offense the ball back around mid-field. The Huskers then burn two timeouts unnecessarily on the way to a missed field goal. Getting zero points on these first three drives of the half is ultimately what doomed Nebraska. Some positives on the night: The defense, while getting gashed on the ground, held one of the nation’s best offenses well under its season average for points and yards. Holding USC to 21 total points is certainly enough to give the team a chance to win. Even after seeing Raiola go down, the team fought to the end. Other than the Minnesota game, this team has shown tremendous fight this year. Nebraska’s identity on offense still lacking:What is this offense trying to be?Whatever it is, the Huskers continue to lose at the line of scrimmage. Thoughts on the blackout: Hats off to all common fans in attendance who made the blackout a smashing success. The Common Fans are definitely in favor of making this an annual tradition. Looking ahead to UCLA and the rest of the season:While no one would ever choose to have Dylan Raiola be injured, or to be out of the playoff race, in a way it’s freeing for this team. They will likely not be favored the rest of the way; they can simply go play without any expectations. Anxious to see what backup quarterback TJ Lateef can do with a full week of game prep. UCLA has been a bipolar team. Huskers should expect a battle at the Rose Bowl. This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! As always, GBR for LIFE! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Former Michigan Tight End and current Big Ten Network analyst Jake Butt joins the Common Fans to discuss Nebraska’s season to date and the upcoming game against USC. Jake shares some fantastic stories about his time as a player.Overlooked by Ohio State and Notre Dame, even though he grew up 15 minutes from Columbus.Coming face-to-face with Urban Meyer for the first time. Winning the John Mackey Award as college football’s best Tight End. Jake sees Nebraska as having made huge strides in several critical areas: Winning one score games. Improvement in turnover margin. Special teams is so vastly improved, the third phase is likely responsible for at least two of Nebraska’s wins this year. Jake calls out Mike Ekeler in particular as a massive addition to Rhule’s staff over the offseason. That said, the Huskers need to develop in the one area that is most important for winning in college football: the trenches. Missing Nash Hutmacher and Ty Robinson on defense. Offensive line has sustained some injuries, but they still need to be better. Jake sees winning in the trenches as the next step Matt Rhule’s program needs to take to get over the hump and start playing at an elite level. Assessing Dylan Raiola eight games into his sophomore year:  Dylan likes to make the huge play, but sometimes that can come back to bite you. With maturity comes understanding about when it’s appropriate to make the big play, and when you need to throw it away. Jake would put Dylan definitely in the top half of Big Ten quarterbacks, and possibly in the top quarter. Dylan’s leadership has been a huge intangible benefit to the 2025 Nebraska football team.Looking ahead to USC: November is championship football season. It’s when the contenders get separated from the pretenders. This game will be a huge separator for both programs. Key for this game: the run game for both teams. USC’s run game is much improved over previous years. For Nebraska to win, they have to stop the run, and be able to run the ball. Like the Common Fans, Jake is a huge fan of Emmett Johnson. Feed Emmett!!!This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! As always, GBR for LIFE! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Common Fans discuss Nebraska’s win over Northwestern and celebrate getting to bowl eligibility for the second consecutive season. Huskers get up off the mat after Minnesota: After a disappointing performance in Minneapolis last Friday night, the Big Red brought more fight and energy to the game against the always-pesky Northwestern Wildcats. It wasn’t always pretty–it rarely has been in 2025–and the officiating was some of the worst we’ve seen in a long time. But the Huskers found a way to get the W. Is it actually better?The Common Fans do an exercise to go through the different phases of the game to examine if–and how much–the team has actually made progress this season. Special teams is so clearly better in every way that Mike Ekeler might be the most important hire of the last 10 years for Nebraska football. One could argue the third phase is the difference between Nebraska being 6-2 and 4-4 this year. Offense and defense are more of a mixed bag. The offense as a whole is better, although their inconsistency drives Husker fans crazy. Quarterback play is better overall, running back play is better (we love you Emmett!), wide receiver play is better, but the unit stalls all too often and the offensive line needs work. The defense has probably taken a step back given all that they lost, but the pass defense is still strong and a plethora of young talent gives hope for the future. Other things that are better: winning close games, making late stops, and putting together game winning drives. Husker teams of recent years have simply not done these things.Ultimately, the Common Fans conclude that Nebraska football is in fact better; they are making progress. That said, it is often not as consistent, or not as good, as Husker Nation would like to see. At 6-2, we’ve gotta celebrate all the Ws, and hope 2025 will still see a breakthrough win for the program. Celebrating the Common Fan tailgate: Thanks to all those who came out to say hi (or in some cases, hang out all day) at the Common Fan tailgate. It was awesome to have Husker legend Steve Taylor and longtime sports talk radio guys Mike’l Severe and Gary Sharp hang out with us. Equally as awesome was to see so many friends, family, and listeners. We love the Common Fan community!This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! As always, GBR for LIFE! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Mike’l Severe joins the Common Fans to discuss Nebraska’s meltdown in Minneapolis, the chatter among Husker Nation this week, and the coming battle against Northwestern. What went wrong against Minnesota: Mike’l suggests the number one difference between the two teams on the field on Friday night was not anything related to blocking or tackling, or throwing or catching the football. It had everything to do with culture.Minnesota knows exactly who they are and what they want to do. While Matt Rhule has established a culture in Lincoln, the Huskers appear to be lacking an identity. Still, Huskers should not have been pushed around in the way that they were. Sacks and Dylan Raiola’s struggles:The sack problem lands on everybody’s feet. The offensive line needs to be better, running backs need to be better in pass protection, and Dylan needs to have better pocket awareness. Raiola missed Dane Key twice on Friday, both of which would have been touchdowns and possibly changed the game. He needs to be better in those situations–especially throwing the deep ball. Checking the pulse if Husker Nation: There seems to be a broad cross-section of reactions among the fan base after Saturday’s loss, everything from calm and collected to full meltdown mode.How concerned should we be about Matt Rhule’s program a little more than halfway through Year 3?Troy Dannen’s comments about being in year three of a rebuild:Is Dannen right? Do Husker fans need to be just a little more patient? Or, in the era of Curt Cignetti completely flipping the Indiana program, should we expect more success sooner?Mike’l suggests Cignetti is an outlier, and Rhule is still on track to have success at Nebraska. The importance of the Northwestern game to the remainder of the season:The entire crew agrees the coming game against Northwestern is absolutely pivotal for Nebraska’s outlook the remainder of the season. The team needs to show they can bounce back and beat a physical Big Ten opponent. Mike’l suggests everything from 1-4 to 5-0 are on the table for this team. Northwestern could go a long way toward determining how the remaining five games play out. This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! As always, GBR for LIFE! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Common Fans discuss Nebraska’s disappointing performance against the Minnesota Gophers on Friday night. The Huskers were outcoached, outhit, and outplayed against the Gophers. Whether they were tired or felt like it would be an easy win, Nebraska simply didn’t show up against Minnesota. It’s Lucy with the football once again–every time Nebraska feels like it’s about to turn a corner, we see a performance like this. It’s incredibly frustrating for fans.Yes, there is more parity than ever before in college football. Yes, every team is investing in players, coaches, and facilities now. But Husker fans deserve to see the upside of that investment and not just the pain. Nebraska fans could have told you exactly the kind of game P.J. Fleck wanted to play, and that’s exactly what we saw. The Gophers had an answer for the Nebraska offense, they had an answer on 3rd down, they seemed to have all the answers all night. The offense has to figure something out. Commit to the run, and come up with some better options when the straight drop-back game isn’t working. If you’re going to run this kind of pro-style offense, the line play and the quarterback play both need to be better. At this point, the sacks are on everybody. With all the frustration from Friday night, the Common Fans are not giving up hope. We only get to do this 12 Saturdays a year, and we’re going to enjoy it. There’s still nearly half the season left.  The team still has the opportunity to prove itself; the game against Minnesota is not predictive of the remainder of the season. This week’s game against Northwestern is now crucial for getting the boys in red back on track. If this team has improved to the extent that we want to believe it has; if this program is in a different and better place, as we’ve been told, then Northwestern is exactly the kind of game they need to win. Beat Northwestern, get to 6-2, and then see what happens in November. The life of being a fan:While it’s exciting to see the basketball team beat preseason #8 BYU in an exhibition game, it does not take away the sting of a Nebraska football loss. Most fandom is pain: only one team ends the season with a championship. But you don’t only show up when things are going well. Speaking of, hats off to Nebraska fans.In the words of Tom Shatel, Husker fans are undefeated against apathy. Husker Nation showed up at Maryland, they showed up at Minnesota, and we know they are going to show up to fill up the stadium once more against Northwestern. Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Josh Peterson joins the Common Fans to discuss all the latest with Husker football. The Penn State question:Would Matt Rhule leave for Happy Valley? How high would he be on PSU’s list?Does anybody really know anything? What Penn State needs to show their fans. What Matt Rhule needs to hear to stay.On the upcoming game against Minnesota:Would Husker fans actually like P.J. Fleck if he was Nebraska’s coach?Assessing where quarterback Drake Lindsey fits among the QBs the Blackshirts have faced this season. Nebraska looks like the better team–but are they ready to take the next step and get the Gopher off their back? The big picture: Did the Maryland game indicate a renewed commitment to the run game for Nebraska?Is this defense just getting better and better?And finally, discussing the ceiling for this 2025 Nebraska squad. This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! As always, GBR for LIFE! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/ Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Common Fans discuss Nebraska’s comeback win against Maryland on Saturday. The Huskers give up two 10 point leads, and were losing with under two minutes to go, before pulling out a 34-31 victory.HUGE PROGRESS: Putting together not one but two 4th quarter scoring drives to ultimately propel the team to victory. SPECIAL TEAMS AGAIN! The kickoff return team has entered the chat.The Blackshirts–despite not playing their best game–bowed up when it mattered. Emmett Johnson absolutely carried the team in arguably his best game as a Husker. Nyziah Hunter emerging as a major threat. Despite three picks, Dylan showed his heart and his toughness in leading Nebraska to the win. Offensive line takes a major step forward. Plus, discussing where the 5-1 Huskers fit in the broader Big 10 conversation. It’s a brave new world in 2025, and the Common Fans are celebrating all the Ws!This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! As always, GBR for LIFE! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Brandon Vogel from The Counter Read joins the Common Fans to talk about the win over Michigan State and look ahead to Saturday’s game vs. Maryland.  Perhaps the biggest takeaway from the win over Michigan State was the huge step forward taken by the defense. Blackshirts becoming a havoc defense. The way the Huskers finished–scoring 24 unanswered points even after stalling in the middle part of the game–makes the 2025 squad seem different from other recent Nebraska teams. Do Husker fans need to calm down and enjoy the win? What’s behind Nebraska’s inability to protect Dylan? What to make of the offensive line so far? Brandon’s take on the excellent play from Mike Ekeler’s special teams units so far. Is Ekeler the best hire Matt Rhule has made? Message to all Common Fans: don’t message Husker players on social media! Also, the crew pivots to Saturday’s game vs. Maryland: Taking a look at what we know about the Terps. Mike Locksley’s team is a surprising 4-1 so far, leading the Big Ten in sacks and coming in with a strong pass defense. Maryland offense struggling so far. Discussing what it means that the Huskers are getting to College Park a day early. Brandon sees a tight game, with Nebraska ultimately prevailing.And finally, Nebraska's got a chance to be 6-2 or 7-1 going into the USC game. That would feel like real improvement and real momentum for the program. Discussing the importance of the next three games. This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! As always, GBR for LIFE! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Common Fans discuss Nebraska’s roller coaster win over the Spartans.  Nebraska looked like they were going to cruise to victory after opening a 14-0 lead early in the game.After MSU scored 21 unanswered points, the Big Red appeared lost.Huskers come roaring back to take over the game and ultimately win comfortably, 38-27.Breakthrough game for the defense.Special teams comes up huge. Dylan doesn’t quit.Discussing Nebraska’s offensive identity: do the Huskers need to prioritize pounding the rock more?Plus, the boys discuss the need to enjoy the win:College football can be too much of a beauty pageant, with fans and pundits focused on margin of victory and individual stats over wins and losses. Nebraska would have lost this game more often than not over the last ten years, and they turned it into a double digit victory. That’s progress.There’s more parity in the game than ever before, and we should celebrate every W.Huskers at 4-1 and everything this team wants to accomplish is still out in front of it. This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! As always, GBR for LIFE! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Omaha World Herald’s Evan Bland joins the Common Fans to talk about the Michigan game, the first third of the season, and reasons for optimism for the Huskers in 2025. Reasons for optimism in 2025:Dylan Raiola is playing at an elite level. Best group of wide receivers Nebraska has had in years. Pass defense is the best in the nation. Special Teams is drastically improved. Lots of young talent on D.The importance of the next four games. Which game on the schedule represents Nebraska’s best change to get a win over a ranked team? The crew also gets real:Losing at the line of scrimmage – how much can be fixed in season?Concern about the front seven on defense. Plus, the boys discuss the ridiculous national narrative surrounding Raiola, what to expect from Michigan State, and how much the food in the press box has improved with the new stadium vendor. This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! As always, GBR for LIFE! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Common Fans are spicy as they discuss Nebraska’s frustrating loss to Michigan. Nebraska lost–at times badly–at both lines of scrimmage. The Nebraska run defense was gashed to the tune of almost 300 yards. The Husker offensive line could not contain Michigan’s defenders, and the offense didn’t do much of anything in the 2nd half.Special teams bugaboos rear their ugly head again. What it all means for the Big Red:No one is calling for any firings, but it feels like the team should be further along in year 3. Offensive line was supposed to be a strength of the team and Dylan Raiola was running for his life all afternoon. The defense’s ability to stop the run is officially a problem. Lots of youth on defense, and new coaches, so there’s hope they can improve significantly as the season goes on. Dylan at times needs to get rid of the ball or move in the pocket sooner, but otherwise he had a very strong performance and kept Nebraska in the game. Bye week is good for the team but it’ll be a long two weeks for the Common Fans out there. This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! As always, GBR for LIFE! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Brian Christopherson joins the Common Fans to discuss the big game against Michigan and Nebraska’s 2025 season to date. How much can we take from Akron and HCU?Trying to contain the running threat posed by Michigan’s Bryce Underwood and Justice Haynes. Looking at Nebraska’s strengths vs. the Wolverines.Still no clarity at RB after Emmett Johnson.Will Nebraska be able to move the ball vs. Michigan’s defense? The strength of John Butler’s defense. Special teams still holding steady. Plus, we look at some big picture topics with BC:Recruiting update.How this team is different than Matt Rhule’s first two years in Lincoln. How high is the ceiling for the 2025 Huskers?This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! As always, GBR for LIFE! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Common Fans discuss Nebraska’s dominating win over Houston Christian and look ahead to the long-awaited Michigan game. For an 11am kickoff after a massive win over Akron last weekend, both the team and the crowd still brought the energy. The Dane Key coming out party. Defense dominates, but much stiffer tests await.Do we need to worry about the front seven on defense going into Big Ten play?  Starters out by halftime. Is Kwinten Ives the #2 running back?Dylan Raiola shines again, and backup quarterback TJ Lateef continues to impress. Cortez Mills, Rex Guthrie, and plenty of other young guys shine.And of course, the question on everybody’s mind: will UCLA win a single game this year? After the large – and expected – victory, all of Husker Nation anxiously turns their focus to Michigan this week. It’s a huge opportunity for the Big Red as they look to continue their momentum in Matt Rhule’s third year. This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! As always, GBR for LIFE! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/ Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Adam Carriker joins the Common Fans to discuss the wins over Akron and Cincinnati and the road ahead for the Big Red. Matt Rhule’s fiery halftime speech and what it indicates about Rhule as a head coach. How critical it was for Nebraska to get the W over Cincinnati.The huge benefit of three weeks of practice (and two likely wins) in the time between Cincinnati and Michigan. What to make of Nebraska’s Big Ten schedule. Can we be done holding our breath for the special teams units?The massive positive impact of Dana Holgorsen + Mike Ekeler. Plus, Hannah from Oak Barn Beef joins the boys to talk about her growing business, how Common Fans in every corner of the country can get Oak Barn's delicious Nebraska beef, favorite dishes, the dry aging process, and more. This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! As always, GBR for LIFE! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/ Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Common Fans discuss Nebraska’s dominating win over Akron.Not much went wrong for the Big Red on Saturday night, as Nebraska dominated Akron in every facet of the game. While the Zips are clearly not very good, it was still a sign of progress for this program to put away a team in such an overwhelming fashion. A win like this was what everyone needed: the team, the program, the entire fan base, all of Husker Nation. Six different Huskers scored touchdowns en route to the 68-0 drubbing. Dylan Raiola was on top of his game, throwing for 364 yards as Nebraska’s offense racked up 728 total yards. Backup QB TJ Lateef looked strong as well. Emmett Johnson is on the way to a special season. Promising performance from multiple young guys on both sides of the ball. Big steps forward for the defense and special teams. One more tune-up this week before the showdown against Michigan on September 20. This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! As always, GBR for LIFE! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/ Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Gary Sharp joins the Common Fans to share his reactions to the Cincinnati game and talk about what’s next for Nebraska football.Gary saw plenty of issues for the Huskers to fix, but the game didn’t fundamentally change his outlook for the Big Red in 2025.Defensive line, depth at running back are obvious areas in need of improvement. Gary also mentions the linebacker play as something he was surprised at. The good news: there were several mistakes that can be chalked up to game-one sloppiness. The key will be cleaning those up in the next two weeks. Also plenty to like from the game. Solid outing from Dylan. Plus-two turnover margin. And, of course, a Nebraska W.Plus, the crew gets into some timely questions:What does Matt Rhule want from this offense?If Nebraska goes into the Michigan game at 3-0, will they be ranked?What’s fair to expect from this defense?Is all of this building for 2026? This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! As always, GBR for LIFE! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Common Fans discuss Nebraska’s thrilling win over Cincinnati at Arrowhead Stadium. The Huskers showed plenty of promise on Thursday night, but the team also has lots to work on. The Nebraska team that showed up at Arrowhead Stadium does not look like a playoff team…but that doesn’t mean the Big Red can’t still put together a special run in 2025.The most important thing was getting out of Kansas City with a W, and the Huskers accomplished that. With the next two games against Akron and Houston Christian, there’s time to work on everything else.Dylan Raiola looked solid, and kept mistakes to a minimum, but the Common Fans wonder if/when we’ll see the offense open it up. The defense looks like a mixed bag after one week. Highlighted by some perfectly timed turnovers, the overall unit looks more explosive than in 2024. At the same time, the run defense looked awfully leaky at times. After dominating the 2nd quarter, and taking a 13-3 lead into halftime, the Big Red looked poised to put Cincinnati away. Instead, the Huskers opening drive of the 2nd half stalled, and they were in a battle to the end. Malcolm Hartzog made the play of the game, with a game-sealing interception in the end zone. The Common Fans are celebrating all the Ws, and it feels great to see the Huskers open the season 1-0. This and so much more on the latest episode of the Common Fan Podcast! As always, GBR for LIFE! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Common Fans celebrate the end of the offseason and the beginning of another season of Nebraska football! Before getting to their bold predictions, there is much to discuss regarding the latest and greatest surrounding Husker football: The debate over whether or not you can be a fan of more than one college football team. National commentators predicting Nebraska in the playoffs.Josh Pate, Phil Steele, Geoff Schwartz, Brandon Walker, and Zack Guggenheim among those predicting playoff potential for the Huskers this season. Nebraska has announced captains for the 2025 season.Matt Rhule’s podcast.Nebraska’s depth chart for the opener against Cincinnati. Four bold predictions for Nebraska football in 2025. And much more! Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Mike’l Severe joins the Common Fans for the third of a three-episode series, breaking down every game on Nebraska’s schedule. The episodes will be released Monday, Wednesday, and Friday of this week, in anticipation of Nebraska’s first game next week. Today, Mike’l and the Common Fans go through the final four games on the Huskers’ schedule. On the game against USC in Lincoln:With USC coming to Lincoln this year, the Common Fans hope for 20 degrees below zero and snow for this game. Head Coach Lincoln Riley has seen his record get worse every year he’s been at the helm in LA, and while he might not be on the hot seat, his back is against the wall. Mike’l sees a bounce-back season for the Trojans, as they have a ton of speed and have made significant upgrades in the transfer portal. Picks:Mike’l: LossMattyO: WinGeoff: WinT.J.: LossOn the game vs. UCLA at the Rose Bowl: Quarterback Nico Iamaleava – formerly of the playoff caliber Tennessee Volunteers – has transferred to UCLA. Many expect the Bruins to take a step forward in 2025.The 2024 UCLA game may have been Nebraska’s worst performance of the season. The Huskers came out flat, and were never really in control against a then 2-5 Bruin team. All four of the crew see the Big Red getting their revenge and beating UCLA at the Rose Bowl. Picks: Mike’l: WinMattyO: WinGeoff: WinT.J.: WinOn the game against Penn State in Happy Valley: Many among the national sports media see Penn State as the best team in the Big Ten in 2025. James Franklin has stacked a ton of wins at PSU, but has struggled to beat ranked teams, and has developed a reputation for not being able to win the big one. Franklin brought in Jim Knowles as his new defensive coordinator for this season. Penn State is likely to be a double digit favorite vs. the Huskers. For Nebraska to have a chance, they need to keep Drew Allar under 62% passing.The whole crew sees the Nittany Lions as being too much for the Huskers. Picks:Mike’l: LossMattyO: LossGeoff: LossT.J.: LossOn the Black Friday game vs. Iowa in Lincoln: The anger about Nebraska’s 2024 loss to Iowa is never far from the surface. The Huskers dominated almost every aspect of that game and still found a way to hand the game away. Nebraska has now lost nine out of 10 to the Hawkeyes.Iowa comes into the season with a new quarterback, Mark Gronowski, who won the Walter Payton Award (given to the most outstanding offensive player in the FCS) in 2023. Even so, the crew sees the Huskers getting the W on what will almost certainly be a freezing day in Lincoln. Picks:Mike’l: WinMattyO: WinGeoff: WinT.J.: WinDon’t forget–this is part of a three-episode series. If you haven’t had the chance to catch the first two episodes, make sure to do that before the season kicks off next week! With kickoff in less than a week, the Common Fans will have you frothing at the mouth in anticipation for Husker Football. Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Mike’l Severe joins the Common Fans for the second of a three-episode series, breaking down every game on Nebraska’s schedule. The episodes will be released Monday, Wednesday, and Friday of this week, in anticipation of Nebraska’s first game next week. Today, Mike’l and the Common Fans go through the middle four games of the Huskers’ schedule. On the game against Michigan State:The crew sees Nebraska as being more talented than Michigan State, despite having a lot of respect for Spartan Head Coach Jonathan Smith. With everyone having picked a win over Michigan the week before, there is some concern about a letdown following a huge win against a ranked, big name opponent. Picks:Mike’l: WinMattyO: WinGeoff: WinT.J.: LossOn the game at Maryland: Lots of red flags and warning signs for this year’s Maryland team. Curious comments recently from Head Coach Mike Locksley about problems in his locker room in 2024. There have been some suggestions–even from Maryland sources–that the Terrapins will be a dumpster fire this season. Nebraska can’t take anyone for granted, especially in their first road game of the season, but all four of the guys see the Huskers coming out on top in this one. Picks: Mike’l: WinMattyO: WinGeoff: WinT.J.: WinOn the game against old nemesis PJ Fleck and the Minnesota Gophers in Minneapolis: Mike’l points out that Nebraska has not won back-to-back road games in consecutive weeks since 2006. With the game being played on a Friday night, Huskers will have a short week after having traveled to Maryland.This is a sneaky candidate to be one of the most challenging games on the schedule for the Big Red. Picks:Mike’l: LossMattyO: LossGeoff: LossT.J.: WinOn the game against Northwestern in Lincoln: The new world of NIL and transfer portal don’t exactly work in Northwestern’s favor. Mike’l doesn’t know what to think about this year’s Wildcats, as he wouldn’t be surprised to see them go 8-4 and wouldn’t be surprised to see them go 4-8. Lots of respect for Head Coach David Braun. Picks:Mike’l: WinMattyO: WinGeoff: WinT.J.: WinDon’t forget–this is part of a three-episode series, all of which will be airing this week! With kickoff just around the corner, the Common Fans will have you frothing at the mouth in anticipation for Husker Football. Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Mike’l Severe joins the Common Fans for the first of a three-episode series, breaking down every game on Nebraska’s schedule. The episodes will be released Monday, Wednesday, and Friday of this week, in anticipation of Nebraska’s first game next week. Today, Mike’l and the Common Fans go through the first four games of Nebraska’s schedule. On the opener against Cincinnati:The crew sees some concern with this one. After two consecutive losing seasons to begin their tenure in the Big 12, Cincinnati is expected to be better this year.Mike’l even suggested that he would be less surprised to see Nebraska lose to the Bearcats than he would to see them lose to Michigan. The Huskers have struggled in the recent past with openers very similar to this one: away from home against Power 5 opponents. Nebraska will be favored, but the Big Red will need to show up dialed in and ready to play. Picks:Mike’l: WinMattyO: WinGeoff: WinT.J.: WinOn Akron and Houston Christian: The guys see the Huskers rolling to victory in both of these games. Perhaps beating Akron–the team Scott Frost was supposed to play in his first game back at Nebraska before it got canceled due to lightning–will help to expel whatever demons have possessed the program these last several years. HCU will be an 11am kickoff against an FCS opponent. Husker fans will need to make their own energy for this one…or at least bring some coffee. Picks for both games: Mike’l: WinMattyO: WinGeoff: WinT.J.: WinOn the big one against Michigan, Nebraska’s first conference game of the year: Mike’l predicts the Wolverines will be better in 2025 than they were in 2024, and sees them as a top 25 team. Some intrigue with this game: Wolverines head coach Sherrone Moore will not be in attendance, as part of Michigan’s punishment for the sign-stealing scandal from a few years ago. This game will be a huge tone-setter for the Huskers. They are unlikely to be favored, and a loss will certainly not derail the season. But a win would be a huge boost as the Big Red looks to take a leap in year three under Matt Rhule. Picks:Mike’l: WinMattyO: WinGeoff: WinT.J.: WinDon’t forget–this is part of a mini three-episode series, all of which will be airing this week! With kickoff just around the corner, the Common Fans will have you frothing at the mouth in anticipation for Husker Football. Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Broadcasting legend Tim Brando joins the Common Fans to discuss the upcoming season, the outlook for Nebraska, his favorite to win the Big Ten, his old friend Lee Corso, plus much more! Brando sees the Huskers taking another step forward in 2025:Last year, Brando came on the Common Fan Podcast and correctly predicted Nebraska would make a bowl game and have a winning season in 2024. He believes Dana Holgorsen will have a significant impact on the offense and the team overall this season. He also sees Dylan Raiola taking a big step forward in year 2 under center. The Huskers will need to get past a good Cincinnati team in the opener, and beat Michigan at home in their first conference game of the season, but Brando sees the schedule as lining up well for the Big Red…and even floated the idea that they might start 6-0.He thinks the Huskers could get as high as 10 wins in 2025!Thoughts on Lee Corso, who will be honored later this month in a one hour special tribute on ESPN:Corso will be retiring at age 90. Brando, who was the first ever host of College Gameday, actually interviewed Corso for his spot on Gameday. According to Brando, Corso is the best ever coach to move into broadcasting.His combination of charisma plus knowledge of the game is unrivaled. Poking fun at Beano Cook…you don’t want to miss Tim’s impression of the famous Beano! Looking at the big picture in the Big Ten:Brando predicts Ohio State to win the conference. He’s very high on Illinois and Indiana.Watch out for Rutgers to play spoiler.  Sees the quality and depth of the conference improving from top to bottom. Plus, the Common Fans even get into a little Husker hoops:Brando celebrated his 40th anniversary in broadcasting by calling the Nebraska-UCLA game in January (which, of course, was a solid Nebraska W). Brando likes what Fred Hoiberg is building and was happy to see the Huskers win The Crown, even though they fell short of the NCAA tournament. Finally, on whether or not Nebraska football should be considered a blue blood:Yes, yes and yes!With less than three weeks before kickoff, the Common Fans help you start getting ready for Husker football! GBR for LIFE!Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@commonfanGBR   Check out our website: www.commonfan.co  Our Partners: You can now find all Common Fan videos and articles on www.huskermax.com as well as www.si.com/college/college-football/team/nebraska-cornhuskers.   For more Husker coverage, check out Carriker Chronicles: https://carrikerchronicles.com/  For more college football coverage, check out The College Huddle: https://thecollegehuddle.com/  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy