Ohio @ Nebraska , Week 1, Sep 5, 2026

The Bobcats lost all five starting offensive linemen from last season and have rebuilt the unit entirely through the transfer portal. Nebraska's defensive line, anchored by returning starters and a power rating that dwarfs Ohio's, will present a massive challenge in Week 1. The market reflects this with a wide spread, and the Bobcats' ability to protect new quarterback Matt Vezza and establish any run game will be critical.

Defensive coordinator Kurt Mattix is implementing an aggressive, attacking scheme that prioritizes pressure and negative plays. With experienced linebackers Jack Fries and Michael Molnar and a veteran defensive line, the Bobcats have the personnel to create chaos. If they can force Nebraska into third-and-long situations early, they can keep the score manageable and give their offense a chance.

Punter Magnus Haines was one of the MAC's best last season, and kicker Will Hryszko was perfect on extra points at Kent State. In a game where Ohio is a heavy underdog, field position and scoring opportunities from special teams could be the difference between covering the spread and getting blown out. The Bobcats also have return threats in Duncan Brune and Max Rodarte.

The Bobcats are deciding between FCS transfer Matt Vezza and inexperienced returners. Vezza was highly productive at New Hampshire, but the jump to FBS and a road game at Nebraska is a steep challenge. The lack of a settled starter makes it difficult to establish rhythm, and Nebraska's defense will likely exploit any hesitation or mistakes.

Colandrea, the reigning Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year from UNLV, adds a running threat that Nebraska lacked with Dylan Raiola. His ability to extend plays and scramble could stress Ohio's defense, which faces a significant talent gap. The Huskers' veteran receiving corps, including Nyziah Hunter and Jacory Barney Jr., should benefit from Colandrea's improvisation, potentially creating big plays against a lower-tier opponent.

The Huskers struggled against the run last season, but new defensive coordinator Rob Aurich arrives from San Diego State, where his 2025 unit ranked 12th in total defense. Aurich's attacking 4-2-5 scheme, combined with returning veterans Riley Van Poppel and Williams Nwaneri, plus transfers Jahsear Whittington and Anthony Jones Jr., aims to shore up the front. Ohio's offense may test this early, but the talent disparity favors Nebraska.

Nebraska added three transfer portal linemen (Paul Mubenga, Brendan Black, Tree Babalade) to a unit that returns center Justin Evans and tackle Elijah Pritchett. While the line is bigger and more experienced on paper, integrating multiple new starters against a lesser opponent like Ohio could lead to early communication issues. The market's large spread reflects confidence, but the line's cohesion is unproven in live action.

The Huskers ranked well on special teams in 2025 under Mike Ekeler, who left for USC. New coordinator Brett Maher inherits placekicker Kyle Cunanan (16-of-19 on field goals) and punter Archie Wilson. While the personnel is solid, the transition in coaching could lead to early-season miscues, especially in a game where Nebraska is heavily favored and may need to execute in all phases to cover the spread.