The Coaches Who Get Under Nebraska's Skin
The latest episode of the Common Fans podcast takes an unapologetic look at the 2026 college football slate, zeroing in on the coaches whose personalities and storylines threaten to dominate Nebraska's conversations.
Kirk Ferentz tops the list, not just for his long‑standing record but for the way his self‑assured demeanor seems designed to ruin Thanksgiving weekends for Husker supporters, a detail the hosts revisit with a mix of nostalgia and irritation.
Pat Fitzgerald’s unexpected jump to Michigan State sparks a debate about the myth of his Northwestern legacy, with the hosts questioning whether the romanticized narrative will survive the move.
Bret Bielema, once a polarizing figure, is beginning to earn a begrudging respect, even as his trademark brashness continues to grate on the fan base.
Curt Cignetti, celebrated for his rapid rise, is simultaneously praised for his achievements and chastised for the arrogance that the podcast suggests needs to be curbed.
Ryan Day, the Ohio State stalwart, draws criticism for his on‑field antics and the perception that his success is celebrated only within Columbus, leaving Nebraska fans uneasy about his potential impact.
The conversation expands to include other notable names such as Eddie George, now steering Bowling Green, as well as Lane Kiffin, PJ Fleck and Dan Lanning, each bringing a distinct brand of controversy that could shape the upcoming season.