Nebraska football is finally back and in full force! Before I begin recapping the game, can I just say how great it felt to wake up knowing Nebraska football is upon us?! The atmosphere was electric, and fans were buzzing with excitement. The time we had been all waiting for had finally come and we were ready to see how our beloved Huskers would perform in our first game against UTEP.
This is the first time since 2019 that Nebraska has opened their season at home. It is also the first time that they have won their season opener since 2019. Let’s take a look at the game.
Nebraska received the ball on the opening kickoff and their success began right away. Dylan Raiola had a very successful first drive. He let the offense 72 yards in 12 plays resulting in a touchdown from running back Dante Dowdell. This drive chewed almost 6 minutes off the clock. Nebraska’s defense then came in and got a huge three and out to give the ball back to our offense. However, our offense would stall for a few drives with a three and out, a turnover on downs, and a fumble. The Miners had a three-play drive resulting in a touchdown. It looked as if Nebraska was going to strike again, but a fumble inside the Miners’ 5-yard line ended this promising drive. When the Miners started with the ball deep in their own territory, our defense stepped up. Ty Robinson came in and got a huge Safety putting Nebraska in the lead. Raiola showed off his arm talent on an impressive 59-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Isaiah Neyor! Raiola had an impressive first half finishing 15 of 22 passing for 192 yards and two touchdowns. Nebraska finished the first half with 339 total yards. UTEP totaled 114 yards of offense in the first half.
After that, the game turned into a blowout which we had all been asking to see for a long time. Nebraska fans and players were excited and were having a great time on the benches and in the stands. The atmosphere was energetic and enthusiastic. We pulled some of our first string players in the third quarter and gave our second string a chance to play. I cannot remember the last time that this happened, but it was great to see everyone have an opportunity to play.
Last season, Nebraska did not have more than 200 passing yards in a game. Raiola ended the first half with 192 total passing yards. He ended his day with 238 passing yards. Nebraska totaled 507 yards on offense and won by a score of 40 to 7.
After watching this game, I can see that we have made improvements. We looked like a good football team that should be able to win at least eight games. I think we have a slight possibility of winning nine but I think that eight is more likely. Now, I understand that we played UTEP, but it is clear that we have made improvements on both sides of the ball. Our game plan and execution looked really good, and we looked strong. Our defense was +2 in the turnover category, which is always a positive. Although there were mistakes and things that we need to clean up, I think we did well and executed in all three phases. I expect that we will only get better and have a good season.
