Nebraska’s football program received a jolt this week when CBS Sports released its Power Four preseason rankings for the 2026 season, placing head coach Matt Rhule at No. 37, a five‑spot drop from the previous iteration.
The ranking comes as the Cornhuskers look to bounce back from a 7‑6 finish in 2025, a season that ended with a loss to Utah in the Las Vegas Bowl and left the program searching for stability.
A Season of Transition
Rhule will oversee a revamped staff that includes new defensive coordinator Rob Aurich and offensive line coach Geep Wade. Both assistants bring fresh schemes that the coaching staff hopes will translate into more consistent performances on both sides of the ball.
The quarterback position will also look different. After Dylan Raiola transferred to Oregon, Nebraska added Anthony Colandrea, the 2025 Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year, who brings a blend of passing and rushing ability that could reshape the offense.
What Lies Ahead
Nebraska opens the 2026 campaign on September 5 against Ohio at Memorial Stadium, a game that will be broadcast on FS1. The matchup offers an early gauge of whether the new-look Huskers can translate their offseason upgrades into wins and climb beyond the mid‑tier ranking that has become a familiar backdrop for Rhule’s tenure.