Nebraska faces a huge test this weekend, hosting No. 21 Michigan in Lincoln. Although the Cornhuskers are 0-28 against top-25 teams, a win over the Wolverines could flip the script. And the spotlight will be on two rising stars: Nebraska sophomore Dylan Raiola and Michigan freshman Bryce Underwood, dueling under center. “I think (Raiola) knows how good the Michigan defense is,” said Nebraska HC. “They have a top-25 run defense. This is Wink Martindale. They get off the bus, and they’re pressuring you.” So, they’re a top-tier defense led by a masterful coordinator. Now, Michigan vs Nebraska: It’s a matchup that will test Nebraska’s toughness and skill on both sides of the ball. Here’s a warning for Matt Rhule.

On September 17, during an appearance on Bussin’ With The Boys, NFL friends Taylor Lewan and Will Compton stirred the pot for Matt Rhule. Compton kicked things off, saying, “I do have a special guest that wanted to say hello to you.” And Lewan jumped in right after, shifting the conversation to the upcoming Michigan vs. Nebraska showdown. “Hey, Matt, how are we doing? Brother, how are you?” he asked. Here, Rhule didn’t hold back his excitement. “You know what? I can’t wait to see you this week. I can’t just forget the rival. And I’m excited to see you, brother,” he replied, setting the tone for a fiery weekend matchup. And then Michigan alum Taylor Lewan fired a warning shot.

“I’m excited to see you as well. I do want to say this, you’ve done an outstanding job with that program,” said Lewan. “Year three of the Matt Rhule era, and it looks like you’ve built a team that plays smart, disciplined football. When you watch the film, it’s clear: these guys know what they’re doing because they’re coached the right way. There’s a lot of integrity and character on that field.” Here, Lewan made it clear he respects what Rhule has built at Nebraska, but isn’t holding back his edge. Yes, he praised the coach and the team while keeping it real: “I’m very proud of what you’re doing to court. Huskers, man, I’m looking forward to Saturday. That’s it. That’s all. I’m done.” However, the Michigan alum didn’t stop there.

He also took a moment to applaud the Cornhuskers’ fans, noting their growing intensity: “Your fan base is getting a little nasty. They’re starting to have a little more fire. And I like it a lot.” Given that, Rhule now faces some familiar NFL names turned rivals, adding extra intensity ahead of Nebraska’s B1G clash. However, Rhule was reserved when addressing the conference and the rivalry. “I love the Big Ten. That’s what makes it great, we can have these amazing games and still shake hands after,” he said. Moreover, on Nebraska, he added, “I love Nebraska. Nice. I think it should be six days a week, though. It should be on Saturdays.” So, Rhule’s message was clear: respect the game, but stay ready for the battle. Why not?

Look, the Michigan–Nebraska rivalry may not be the oldest, but it carries serious weight. The teams have met 12 times, with Michigan leading 6–4–1, and their first clash dates back to 1905. Interestingly, a defining moment came in 1997, when both claimed a share of the national title, sparking heated debate among fans. Since Nebraska joined the B1G in 2011, these matchups have become annual showdowns, fueling the competitive fire. Now, for Nebraska, beating Michigan would be a statement win, especially with Dylan Raiola at the helm. Meanwhile, Michigan looks to assert its conference dominance. So, this weekend’s clash promises big stakes and a must-watch B1G battle. But Matt Rhule is frustrated with how this part of Nebraska’s offense is shaping up ahead of the Michigan clash.

Matt Rhule speaks out on O-line

Nebraska HC Matt Rhule saw plenty to like in the Huskers’ latest blowout win, but he didn’t shy away from calling out issues. “I like a lot of what I saw, but I hate where our scramble drill is right now on offense,” mentioned Rhule. And the reason is very simple. QBs were running around, but receivers weren’t getting open: a problem he’s noticed even with explosive play from Dylan Raiola and TJ Lateef. But there’s reason for optimism, as well.

Here, despite the lopsided 68- and 59-point performances in past games, Rhule praised the team’s mindset. He noted that players were still disappointed at halftime, even with a 38-0 lead. “That shows a high standard,” he said, pointing out that the offense had chances to extend the lead but didn’t capitalize. On top of that, Rhule also liked how quickly the team is shifting focus to the next challenge.

QB Dylan Raiola was already prepping for Michigan moments after the game ended. “I like where their heads are at,” remarked Rhule. Now, with the Big Ten showdown looming, Rhule is making sure the Huskers tighten up mistakes while keeping the competitive fire alive.