🏈 Nebraska vs UCLA: Game Preview, Prediction & Key Players.
🕒 Game Overview
The Nebraska Cornhuskers and UCLA Bruins are set to face off in one of the weekend’s most anticipated Big Ten clashes. Both teams are hunting for bowl eligibility and momentum heading into the final stretch of the season.
Nebraska’s stingy defense will try to contain UCLA’s dynamic offense, while the Bruins look to bounce back after recent conference struggles under Head Coach Tim Skipper. Expect a physical matchup filled with big defensive stops, special teams plays, and late-game drama.
🏟️ Match Details
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Date: Saturday, November 9, 2025
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Kickoff Time: 7:30 PM ET / 6:30 PM CT
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Venue: Memorial Stadium, Lincoln, Nebraska
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TV Channel: FOX Sports / FS1
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Streaming: Peacock, FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV
🔍 Team Preview
Nebraska Cornhuskers
The Huskers have found their rhythm in recent weeks, leaning on their run-heavy offense and disciplined defense.
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Head Coach: Matt Rhule
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Offensive Focus: Power running, clock control, and short passing game
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Defensive Strength: Elite front seven led by Nick Henrich and Luke Reimer
Key Players to Watch:
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🧠 QB Heinrich Haarberg — athletic dual-threat quarterback who can extend plays
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⚡ RB Anthony Grant — workhorse back averaging 4.7 yards per carry
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💪 LB Nick Henrich — emotional leader and tackling machine
UCLA Bruins
The Bruins enter the matchup needing a road win to stay in postseason contention. Tim Skipper has emphasized discipline and balance on offense.
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Head Coach: Tim Skipper (Interim)
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Offensive Focus: Quick passing, inside zone runs, and tempo control
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Defensive Strength: Athletic linebackers and aggressive pass rush
Key Players to Watch:
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🎯 QB Ethan Garbers (or Nico Iamaleava, if cleared to start) — poised passer with good field vision
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🏃♂️ RB T.J. Harden — explosive running back capable of breaking long gains
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🧱 WR J.Michael Sturdivant — deep-threat receiver who can change momentum instantly
⚔️ Key Matchups
| Battle | Advantage |
|---|---|
| Nebraska Run Game vs UCLA Front Seven | Nebraska (strong OL play) |
| UCLA Passing Attack vs Nebraska Secondary | Even |
| Special Teams (Kicking & Punting) | Nebraska |
| Coaching / Game Management | Slight edge: Nebraska |
🧠 Expert Prediction
This contest is expected to be close from start to finish. Nebraska’s defense and home crowd will be the X-factors, while UCLA’s offense will look to strike early.
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Predicted Final Score: Nebraska 27 – UCLA 24
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Betting Edge: Nebraska (-2.5)
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Over/Under: 48 points
🗣️ Analyst Take: “Nebraska’s consistency on defense and ball control gives them a narrow edge at home. Expect a one-possession game with late drama.”
📈 X-Factor Players
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Nebraska: Anthony Grant (RB) – controlling the clock with 100+ rushing yards could seal the win.
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UCLA: Nico Iamaleava (QB) – if he plays, his arm strength could test Nebraska’s secondary.
🏆 What’s at Stake
A win keeps Nebraska in contention for a top-tier bowl game, while UCLA looks to avoid falling below .500 in conference play. Momentum heading into November is crucial — and this game could define both teams’ seasons.
📺 Where to Watch
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Live: FOX / FS1
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Streaming: Peacock, FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV
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Radio: Huskers Radio Network & UCLA Bruins Sports Network
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