Hogan Hansen has a breakout game
The 6-foot-5, 243-pound tight end is one of the best pass catchers on the Michigan football roster. People know about Marlin Klein, who is on Bruce Feldman's Freak's list. He should be a focal point of the offense.
However, Klein will also be more of a focal point for the Nebraska defense. The Huskers have good cornerbacks and the receivers could struggle to get separation. Klein, Hansen, and Donaven McCulley will be the most targeted players.
Hansen has three receptions for 43 yards in 2025. He will exceed that number on Saturday with a performance similar to the seven receptions for 78 yards he had all of last season.
Michigan vs. Nebraska prediction against spread
This feels like a toss-up game. Both offenses, led by dynamic quarterbacks are going to move the ball. Michigan will be more reliant on the run game.
The Wolverines will out-rush Nebraska in a big way. However, Nebraska will win the turnover battle. Underwood will make a freshman mistake or two, plus Michigan's special teams have been shaky.
That used to be a Nebraska trait, but Mike Ekeler, who was hired away from Tennessee, has Nebraska's special teams playing as well as anyone through three games. Poor punts and another special teams gaffe (missed field goal, muffed punt) will be the difference in a classic.
Nebraska wins the game in the extra third, and a late field goal is the difference.
Prediction: Nebraska 30, Michigan 27