Minnie and Fred open Monday Night Therapy celebrating Nebraska’s 38–27 win over Michigan State, then pivot to a Maryland preview with guest Matt Germack of SB Nation/Testudo Times. Matt explains “September Maryland”: 19–3 in September over five years, 12–22 afterward. He says the Terps’ defense is notably improved with a legit pass rush (freshmen edge duo Sidney Stewart and Zaheer Mathis), but the offense is unbalanced: an anemic run game and shaky O-line have forced heavy RPO passing. Standout freshman
QB Malik Washington looks poised and accurate, but Maryland’s fourth-quarter collapse vs. Washington (after leading 20–0) highlighted play-calling issues and inexperience. He notes Maryland leads the Big Ten in sacks and can exploit pressure-to-sack tendencies, a concern versus Nebraska’s developing tackles.
Crowd edge may favor Nebraska: it’s Maryland’s fall break, so attendance could dip. Special teams could swing the game—Maryland’s kicker is reliable short, punter is excellent, but kickoff coverage leaks; Nebraska’s special teams are “kick-ass,” with recent return TDs and an Aussie punter. The hosts like Nebraska’s defensive matchup against Maryland’s run struggles and believe continuity on the Huskers’ O-line can help protect Dylan Raiola, whose composure and leadership stood out in windy conditions vs. MSU.
Prediction vibe: a competitive game, slight Nebraska lean.
