Matt Rhule’s McAfee Comments Set the Stage for Nebraska vs. Michigan

Nebraska’s offense is rolling under Dana Holgorsen and QB Raiola after outscoring non‑conference foes 147-24, yet Nebraska is a two-point underdog at home vs. No.21 Michigan. Bettors might back Nebraska +2 or target the over, given Nebraska’s 366 passing yards per game vs. Michigan’s ground-heavy attack.

Rhule previews Michigan: confidence meets a tough matchup

Nebraska coach Matt Rhule framed Saturday’s matchup with No.21 Michigan as one of the season’s biggest tests after Nebraska’s 59-7 win over HCU. Rhule expressed clear confidence in his roster: “We think we have a pretty good team, so we’re expecting a heck of a game.” Despite the home-field advantage, Nebraska opened as a two-point underdog heading into the 2:30 p.m. CDT kickoff on CBS.

H2: Who’s the focal point? Michigan’s run game

Run defense will decide the game

Michigan’s physical identity centers on the run, led by Justice Haynes, who tops the Big Ten with 388 rushing yards through three weeks. Rhule emphasized the dual threat posed by Haynes and Michigan’s quarterback run game, calling it “a whole different animal.” That combination attacks Nebraska’s perceived weakness and puts defensive coordinator John Butler’s unit under the microscope.

H2: Nebraska’s offensive momentum

Holgorsen’s imprint and Raiola’s poise

Nebraska is averaging more than 366 passing yards per game — nearly 140 more than last season — evidence of Dana Holgorsen’s immediate impact. Rhule credited the coordinator move as “pivotal,” highlighting the partnership with quarterback Raiola. Rhule praised Raiola’s ability to “play chess” against defenses, setting up what he expects to be a strategic midfield battle against Michigan’s front.

H2: Special narrative — the Bussin’ Bowl Trophy

The matchup has extra sizzle thanks to the tongue-in-cheek “Bussin’ Bowl Trophy,” created by former NFL players Taylor Lewan (Michigan) and Will Compton (Nebraska). Rhule welcomed the pageantry, calling the game “what the Big Ten should be all about,” and framing the contest as more than just a regular-season meeting.

H2: Betting implications and what to watch

For bettors, the numbers and style contrasts create clear angles. Nebraska’s aerial efficiency versus Michigan’s run-first approach suggests value on Nebraska as a narrow underdog (+2) or on the over if both units execute. Key in-game indicators: Nebraska’s ability to keep drives alive through the pass and Nebraska’s defensive adjustments to limit quarterback runs and Haynes’ production.

H2: Stakes and season trajectory

Rhule made clear the larger implications: a win on a national stage would signal Nebraska’s arrival as a legitimate contender in 2025. From stopping Michigan’s run to maintaining offensive efficiency, Saturday should deliver clarity on where the Huskers stand.

Matt Rhule breaks down Nebraska's keys to beating Michigan.

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