EA Sports has released its latest projections for the 2026 college football season in College Football 27, assigning the Nebraska Huskers an overall rating of 83. The rating breaks down to 85 on offense and 82 on defense, positioning the team as a fringe contender within a landscape where the Big Ten Conference dominates the top spots.
Roster overhaul and key newcomers
The Huskers have endured notable departures, losing starting quarterback Dylan Raiola and running back Emmett Johnson. However, the program sees a bright spot in incoming quarterback Anthony Colandrea, who is viewed as one of the most promising threats for the upcoming season. On the line, starters such as Elijah Pritchett and center Justin Evans return, while additions from the transfer portal bolster depth.
At the receiving corps, six of the top eight pass catchers from the previous year are back, including standouts Nyziah Hunter and Jacory Barney. Tight end Luke Lindenmeyer also returns after a solid 2025 campaign that yielded 29 receptions and 312 yards. These returning pieces form the backbone of an offense that aims to maintain its scoring potency despite the loss of key talent.
Defensive transformation
Defensively, Nebraska earned an 82 overall rating, placing it fifth within the Big Ten. The unit underwent sweeping changes after the firing of coordinator John Butler, who was replaced by a new staff that includes Geep Wade and Rob Aurich. Returning defensive stalwarts such as Riley Van Poppel, Williams Nwaneri and Cameron Lenhardt provide continuity, while fresh faces like Dasan McCullough and Vincent Shavers Jr. are expected to contribute immediately.
The broader conference context underscores Nebraska’s positioning. Oregon, Ohio State and Indiana top the national ratings, and the Big Ten also claims the highest offensive and defensive team scores in College Football 27. Nebraska’s 83 overall rating barely edges past rivals such as Penn State and Washington, reflecting a competitive but tightly packed middle tier of the conference.
Fans can look forward to seeing these ratings come to life when College Football 27 launches worldwide on July 9. The game promises to showcase the Huskers’ revised identity, blending a potent offense with a retooled defense, and will be closely watched as the team attempts to translate its projected rating into on‑field success.