Big day for the defense
Nebraska has really struggled in recent weeks to score and losing Thompson is a big issue in this game. Trey Palmer getting deep has been Nebraska’s best weapon but neither Chubba Purdy nor Logan Smothers — the backups — is a talented passer.
Against Illinois, Purdy and Nebraska didn’t score once in nine possessions. Last week, the Huskers scored on their first two drives, then the next seven with Purdy ended in punts or an interception and Nebraska managed just one first down.
Even with Thompson, the Huskers have been turnover prove and averaged two giveaways per game. On top of that, Nebraska is 12th in the Big Ten in sacks allowed (26), so it should be a field day for the defense.
Michigan football should get at least 3-4 sacks against the Huskers and my guess is that the Wolverines notch a pair of interceptions too. Neither quarterback has shown much poise and they haven’t faced a defense or a pass rush like Michigan.
The Huskers may get a few big plays and we all know the option-style QB (Smothers) has hurt Michigan in the past, but I don’t see Nebraska scoring 20 points. Only one team has so far this season against Michigan (Maryland) and the Huskers won’t be No. 2.