Well, it’s safe to say that this game isn’t the headline news for either team or fanbase right now, as both programs are facing big changes that are dominating attention and storylines. For Nebraska, that’s
probably just as well, because honestly, I don’t see this one going particularly well for the Huskers.
The Bigger Storylines
For Utah:
As you may have heard, Utah’s former coach, Kyle Whittingham, made the decision* to step down after an epic coaching career with the Utes. Notably, he didn’t retire, and when the Sherrone Moore experience went sideways at Michigan, Whittingham was hired to right the ship and hopefully more with a five-year deal.
For Utah, Whittingham’s departure didn’t leave them too much in the lurch, as former Coach-in-Waiting turned new Head Coach, Morgan Scalley, took the reins one game earlier than he might have otherwise. Because Scalley was a hire from within, the Ute players are presumably somewhat used to him and will have less adjustment than a team in a similar situation might normally face.
Still, expect to hear about Michigan far more than you might otherwise expect in a Utah-Nebraska game.
*What pressures weighed in to this decision continue to be disputed!
For Nebraska:
Nebraska’s drama is, as usual, a bit less happy. They’ve been without the services of Dylan Raiola since early November’s game against USC, but it now seems they’re set to never have his services again, as he appears poised to enter the transfer portal. This came on the heels of his uncle Donovan Raiola’s firing as the Huskers’ offensive line coach. Also recently departing the team is defensive coordinator John Butler, who is replaced for the moment with Phil Snow.
For Nebraska, this is a lot of churn in key roles, and it remains anyone’s guess what the locker room and morale is like. My guess? Not great.
Should You Watch this Game?
I mean, probably not. You may enjoy watching Michigan get waxed by Texas more, and that game is nearly opposite this one. Or, if Michigan pulls off a surprise, that could be really fun too. But this game… probably not very fun, unless you are a fan of one of the other Quadrangle teams.
I’d really like to be wrong, but I’m probably not.
My Prediction:
Pain.
Oh, you wanted a score? Ok. Um, let’s say Utah 40, Nebraska 13.
Happy New Year everyone!
