Nebraska Faces Michigan State After Protection Struggles

Nebraska will host Michigan State on Saturday after both teams started 3-1. After the loss to Michigan in which Nebraska allowed seven sacks, offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen said the staff is simplifying the playbook, installing hundreds of practice pass sets and urging QB Dylan Raiola to get the ball out more quickly while also stressing the need to push up front and re-establish the run. Despite protection concerns and a heavy workload for RB Emmett Johnson, Nebraska’s offense remains prolific (top-15 scoring, 43.5 points per game). Michigan State’s defense — which has struggled with missed tackles and generating pressure — will test Nebraska’s adjustments, and local previews say protection, line physicality and limiting opponent tempo will decide the game. Coaches, including Matt Rhule, used the bye to self-scout and focus on fundamentals; game-day factors such as blustery winds in Lincoln and personnel questions after Demitrius Bell’s hamstring setback and nickelback Malcolm Hartzog’s game-time status could influence strategy.