Big Ten play has finally arrived for the Nebraska Cornhuskers, and they're starting the conference schedule off in a big way, with a matchup against the No. 21 Michigan Wolverines.
While the usual suspects (quarterback Dylan Raiola, wide receiver Emmett Johnson, running back Dane Key, and others) will have to step up their game even further, there are a few underrated players who could help lead the Huskers to victory over Michigan.
Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule doesn't necessarily have to rely on this trio to make or break the game for him, but they could be three under-the-radar players who could make a big difference in the matchup:
So far this season, sophomore defensive lineman Riley Van Poppel has earned just three total sacks, but he has made a massive impact at the actual line of scrimmage.
Van Poppel already secured one sack as well as one forced fumble, both coming against the Houston Christian Huskies in Week 3.
If the young lineman can continue his upward trajectory as the Cornhuskers take on the Wolverines, he could make a few big plays when his team needs him most.
Currently in his fifth season with Nebraska, senior linebacker Javin Wright has had a slightly back-and-forth career for the Cornhuskers. His highest tackle total came during his redshirt sophomore season, and he has had a relatively quiet start to his 2025 campaign.
However, with just seven tackles and one pass deflection to his name so far this season, Wright is going to be looking to make a few statement plays against Michigan, just like he did in 2023 when he earned seven tackles and one pass deflection in the game against the Wolverines.
Yes, everyone has fallen in love with junior tight end Luke Lindenmeyer, especially after he proposed to his girlfriend following a Cornhusker victory earlier this season. However, because of the attention he has received from his own team, opponents are starting to do the same.
More likely than not, Michigan will roll out a big package to cover Lindenmeyer when he is in the game, leaving an opportunity for another tight end... such as senior Heinrich Haarberg... to make a big impression when he steps onto the field.
Nebraska and Michigan are scheduled to play at 2:30 p.m. CT on Saturday, Sept. 20, and the Big Ten matchup will be aired on CBS and Paramount+.