If the Nebraska football team wants to have a successful 2026, it needs to start 5-0, with a win over Maryland included in that group. That path through the Terapins just got a bit easier as the team lost one of its best defenders for the entire season.
Sophomore edge rusher Zahir Mathis suffered a lower-leg injury earlier this week, and team officials confirmed he's expected to be sidelined for the entirety of the 2026 campaign. Mathis, who was also a Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award semifinalist, finished his freshman season second on the team with 6.0 sacks and 8.5 tackles for loss. The Philadelphia, PA native recorded at least a partial sack in seven of the 11 games he played.
Nebraska has talked a great deal about having a better offensive line this year compared to recent seasons. Still, with the Huskers taking on Maryland on October 3, the edge rusher's absence could make it much easier for Geep Wade's unit to fear the turtle a little less. Despite missing nearly two full games due to injury last season, Mathis still ranked 11th in the conference in total sacks. He finished second among all Power Four true freshmen with 31 total pressures according to Pro Football Focus (PFF).
Mathis has a history of causing trouble for NU. Last year, the Huskers knocked off the Terps 34-31, but it's safe to say the freshman made life difficult for Dylan Raiola and the offense. He logged 4 tackles (all solo) and a sack in the one-score loss. Considering how important it is that Matt Rhule's squad wins every game it's supposed to, the coaching staff will likely not be bummed that Mathis won't be trying to take down Anthony Colandrea this season.
Zahir Mathis injury makes Maryland matchup easier for Nebraska football
Terps head coach Mike Locksley hasn't had a particularly great start to fall camp. Mathis is the second major blow to his defense after he had to dismiss veteran defensive back Dontay Joyner.
Maryland will now turn to former 5-star defender Zion Elee opposite sophomore Sidney Stewart in a rotation that features DD Holmes and Nahsir Taylor. Without Ellis on one side of the defensive line, a unit that was considered the strength of the team now looks frighteningly thin in a season that Locksley badly needs to rebound.
Matt Rhule also needs a big rebound season. The Nebraska football team might have gotten a helping hand this week.
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