Nebraska's 2026 football schedule is a challenging one, according to the CBS Sports preseason poll. The Huskers are ranked No. 35, with three of their opponents in the top 6 and five in the top 25. Here's a breakdown of the rankings and what they mean for Nebraska's upcoming season.
Ohio State: The Top-Ranked Opponent
Ohio State is ranked No. 1 by CBS Sports, and it's easy to see why. The Buckeyes have a well-oiled recruiting machine and a talented roster. Despite some losses, they are expected to be the best team in the country once again. This game will be a true test for Nebraska, and it's fascinating to consider the potential impact of a loss on the Huskers' season.
Oregon: A Confident Prediction
Oregon is ranked No. 3, and the CBS Sports writer, Richard Johnson, expresses high confidence in their current status. The Ducks have a fearsome defensive front and a skilled offensive line. The fact that we haven't seen their full potential yet adds an intriguing layer to this prediction. It's a reminder that teams can surprise us, and Oregon might just be the team to beat in college football this year.
Indiana: A Powerhouse in the Making
Indiana, ranked No. 6, is coming off a remarkable 16-0 season and national championship. The Hoosiers have the talent, coaching, and financial backing to maintain their power status. This ranking highlights the potential for a dominant performance from Indiana, and it's interesting to consider how Nebraska might match up against such a formidable opponent.
Washington: A Rising Power
Washington is ranked No. 19, and their 9-4 record last year, along with strong recruitment, has earned them a spot in the preseason top 25. The return of QB Desmond Williams, who had a successful season, is a significant boost. Nebraska will face a challenging offense, and this game could be a key indicator of the Huskers' offensive capabilities.
Iowa and Illinois: Solid Opponents
Iowa and Illinois are ranked No. 23 and No. 28, respectively. Both teams have shown resilience and the ability to compete closely against top-tier opponents. The Hawkeyes' QB situation might be a concern, but their overall performance is impressive. Meanwhile, Illinois is replacing key players, but their QB, Katin Houser, has potential. These games will test Nebraska's ability to handle pressure and maintain consistency.
Maryland, Rutgers, and Michigan State: The Lower-Rated Opponents
The remaining opponents on Nebraska's schedule are ranked lower, but they still pose challenges. Maryland, Rutgers, and Michigan State will be crucial games for the Huskers' bowl eligibility and overall performance. These matches will test Nebraska's ability to handle a variety of styles and strategies, and they could be pivotal moments in the season.
Ohio and Bowling Green: The Season Openers
Nebraska's season opens with Ohio, ranked No. 101, and Bowling Green, ranked No. 120. These games set the tone for the season and provide opportunities for the Huskers to build momentum. While Ohio and Bowling Green have their challenges, they also present chances for Nebraska to showcase their talent and potential.
North Dakota: The FCS Powerhouse
It's worth noting that North Dakota, an FCS team, is not ranked in the preseason CBS poll but is a top 20 team in the FCS. Their 8-6 record in 2026 and playoff appearance demonstrate the importance of taking FCS programs seriously. Nebraska's ability to handle such a challenge could be a significant factor in their overall performance.
Big Ten Teams: A Strong Conference
Nebraska is ranked ninth among the 18 Big Ten teams, and the conference as a whole is ranked highly. Teams like USC, Michigan, and Penn State are also in the top 25. This highlights the strength of the Big Ten and the competitive nature of Nebraska's schedule. It will be a challenging but exciting season for the Huskers as they navigate through this talented conference.
In conclusion, the CBS Sports preseason poll provides valuable insights into Nebraska's upcoming season. Each opponent presents a unique challenge, and the Huskers will need to bring their best game to succeed. From the top-ranked Ohio State to the lower-ranked but still formidable opponents, Nebraska's schedule promises an exciting and competitive year of college football.
