Nebraska
How Concerned Should We Be About Nebraska’s Defensive Line?
How concerned should we be with Nebraska’s defense, and in particular, the defensive line? That’s the question much of the Nebraska fan base and media contingent have been diving into since Nebraska’s 20-17 win over Cincinnati.
On this week’s Saturday Morning Coffee Show, Josh Peterson and Matt McMaster discussed it all. Matt found some reasons to be optimistic. Is it something that could be replicable in future games?
Below is a lightly edited transcript of their conversation.
Josh: What is the level of concern with what we saw from the defensive line on Thursday against Cincinnati? Allowing those yards, and Matt, most of those yards came in the second half. So on one hand, you’re like, “wow, they had a really good first half,” on the other hand, did they wear down? What did you see with Nebraska’s defensive line and Sorsby being able to escape for that 29-yarder amongst [96] rushing yards that he had on Thursday night?
Matt: So, I want to give myself some credit because I was looking at Mike’l [Severe] like – and I love Mike’l – what are you talking about? And they have an incredible quarterback and two really good running backs. They are going to run this ball. This analogy I used to begin the show, with the fishing in a mixed bag, is really just about the defensive line.
The combo of [Williams] Nwaneri, [Cam] Lenhardt, [Keona] Davis, and [Dasan] McCollough; best pass rush, best run fits. I honestly think their best packages are no Jacks with Lenhardt, Nwaneri on the edges.
Josh: If you would have told me a month ago that Nwaneri would have the solid plays that he did, I would have said, “What the hell happened?” By the time it happened, I kind of was expecting him to have somewhat of an impact, but he made some plays that I did not see coming a month ago.
Matt: I thought he was the best player in the defense.
Josh: Really? The whole defense?
Matt: Here’s why I say that: the rest of the d-line was so lacking that his impact on the d-line meant so much. So sure, you could throw to me, man, Ceyair Wright was, and I’m to be like, I agree with you. He’s awesome. He’s great.
Josh: They were afraid of throwing it that way.
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Matt: They’re afraid of throwing him. But at the same time, if you remove Nwaneri and then you remove Wright, I think that your replacement for Wright is way closer to what your replacement for Nwaneri would be. That’s kind of how I’m looking at that.
Now, I think the best package Nwaneri and Lenhardt; no Jacks. Seriously. But they can’t do that with how that defense is created. And you might as well just go to a 4-3, which they will never go to a 4-3 if they were to do that. So they’re not going to do that. The drop off, though, from Davis and Nwaneri and Lenhardt and McCullough to then what would be [Jordan] Ochoa, Jaylen George, [Riley Van Poppel], and I guess it would be [Willis] McGahee, right?
Josh: He got smoked on that reverse.
Matt: He didn’t know what to do.
Josh: That was brutal.
Matt: So, the drop-off is so massive. It’s those four. I never want to see Jaylen George and Riley Van Poppel together in the interior of the defensive line. It was together. It was brutal. It was a bad package. I’m forgetting [Elijah] Jeudy. Jeudy had a weird game. Jeudy, I thought, was good. Jeudy, I thought, was bad. He was weird. But RVP and George… I can’t! I can’t do it. I can’t do it.
Jaylen George, when they marched down the field, Cincinnati did after Nebraska scored, so it was 20-10; when they marched down the field, Sorsby getting up the middle that entire time was because the offensive guard was like, “Alright, Jaylen, you want to go to the left and absolutely open up the middle with no spy. Be my guest. Go ahead and do it.” And he did it every time. And Sorsby goes,” Oh, okay!” And just runs up. It was terrible. He wasn’t able to engage.
I thought that Riley Van Poppel and Jaylen George only ever went to where the offensive line wanted them to go. I never thought they went anywhere that they wanted to. It was almost as if they were like, “Oh my God, I’m recreating the line of scrimmage.” And Cincinnati was like, “We want you to go here because the play is here” and you’re completely disengaged from it.
So I think the only option you have is you might have to just mix up of who’s with who. That’s what I think. I think you might have to put RVP with Lenhardt, and you might have to put George with Nwaneri. You cannot play those top four like 60 snaps a game; you can’t do it. Like you still need everybody else to rotate on that d-line. I don’t know what they do, but the second unit of that d-line was, it was not good.
Josh: Let me ask you this, Matt: how much, how much of what happened was them and “them” being Nebraska’s defensive line versus how much of it was a running quarterback? You think it’s more than the quarterback?
Matt: It didn’t happen when the other four dudes were out there.
Josh: So you think it’s definitely more Nebraska personnel-based than anything?
Matt: A million percent.
Josh: I wonder what that means for things moving forward.
Matt: I’ll have to go because I haven’t rewatched the game; I’m pretty sure it was the second time Cincinnati ended up punting. I think Davis gets a tackle for loss. And then the next play, it was a third down and they ended up getting a quick little completion. And then they had to punt the ball; that whole drive, it was those four out there. It was Nwaneri, Lenhardt, McCullough, and Davis. And it was awesome. And it was great.
They got pressure up the middle. They got pressure at the edges. Sorsby was running around. I think that was like one of Nwaneri’s best pressures, because he had three of them. I think you know the play I’m about. Nwaneri comes off the edge, and he rolls. Buford comes in and tackles [him]; that whole drive was those four guys! Those four. And then you put the other four out there, and then Cincinnati looks like a different offense. So it’s, it’s totally personnel to me. Totally.
What does it look like, Josh? I don’t know.
Watch the entire episode below!
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Nebraska
Alabama Joins Ohio, North Carolina, Kansas, Nebraska, Washington and More US States to Prepare for Super Cosmic Northern Light Show, Turbocharging Astro Tourism in America, Full Guide on Aurora Borealis Visibility – Travel And Tour World
Published on
January 20, 2026
By: Tuhin Sarkar
Get ready for the most breathtaking celestial event to hit the United States in years! Alabama has joined the ranks of Ohio, North Carolina, Kansas, Nebraska, Washington, and more U.S. states, as they prepare for an extraordinary northern light show this Monday night. This rare phenomenon is turbocharging astro tourism in America as Aurora Borealis makes its way farther south than ever before.
Super cosmic displays of northern lights are set to illuminate the sky, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience for skywatchers across the country. From Alabama to Washington, the chance to see the aurora borealis is finally within reach for thousands who have never experienced this stunning natural light show.
The intensity of this aurora display is expected to astonish viewers, especially with the sun’s recent powerful eruption, setting the stage for a dazzling show in the winter sky. This event promises to be the ultimate cosmic spectacle, drawing astro tourism enthusiasts from every corner of the U.S. Get ready to witness the northern lights like never before, with full visibility across several states—keep reading to find out how and where you can experience this mesmerizing show firsthand!
Breathtaking Northern Lights to Light Up the Sky: Will You See the Aurora on Monday Night?
Get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle! The northern lights are expected to dance across the sky like never before, as a powerful solar eruption sends a cloud of charged particles racing toward Earth. For the first time in months, Aurora Borealis is forecast to be visible as far south as Alabama and Northern California, lighting up the night in an extraordinary display. If you’ve always dreamed of witnessing this mesmerizing natural wonder, Monday night, January 21, 2026, is your chance to catch the aurora as it flares to life across dozens of U.S. states. The question is, will you be able to see it in all its glory? Stay tuned as we break down the phenomenal northern lights forecast and how to prepare for this awe-inspiring cosmic event.
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With the geomagnetic storm expected to reach level 4 out of 5, the event promises to be a powerful spectacle, and the lights could be seen even farther south than usual. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the northern lights phenomenon as they make their way across the country!
How the Sun’s Explosive Eruption Will Create the Biggest Aurora Display in Months!
It all started with a solar eruption that happened on Sunday, releasing a coronal mass ejection (CME), a cloud of charged particles, toward our planet. This eruption is set to hit Earth on Monday night or early Tuesday, triggering dazzling displays of the northern lights across regions that rarely witness the aurora. According to the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center, this geomagnetic storm will reach level 4 out of 5, classified as “severe.” With this level of intensity, even people in areas far south of the usual aurora zone—like Alabama and Northern California—could get a glimpse of the lights.
This is huge news for anyone in the lower 48 states, as this kind of aurora display is typically limited to the northernmost regions. The powerful solar flare means that more people than ever before will have the chance to witness this stunning celestial event. Will you be one of them? The lights could be faint, but cameras might still capture the magical glow if you’re far south. It’s time to prepare for a visual extravaganza in the sky that is expected to leave you breathless!
Where to See the Northern Lights: A Guide for U.S. Viewers!
If you live in the Northern U.S., your chances of seeing a spectacular aurora display are significantly higher. Areas like Ohio Valley, Kansas, Nebraska, and parts of the Rocky Mountains will have the best viewing conditions. Clear skies will play a crucial role in whether or not you can see the aurora with your naked eye. If you’re lucky enough to find clear skies in the forecast, get ready for a jaw-dropping experience! But even in the southern U.S., where the lights are less visible, you may still be able to capture the aurora on camera as it faintly glows in the distance.
For those in the lower U.S., where the aurora may be harder to spot, keep your cameras ready. Though the aurora may only be a faint glow near the horizon, technology can capture the beauty that the human eye might miss. Don’t forget to dress warmly—this will be a cold night for skywatchers as temperatures are expected to dip well below freezing across most of the country. Bundle up and get ready for a night you won’t soon forget!
The Perfect Timing: When and Where to Catch the Best Aurora Viewing!
Timing is everything when it comes to catching the northern lights. The geomagnetic storm is forecast to peak around Monday night, with the lights being most visible in the hours after sunset. So, if you’re in the southern U.S., you’ll need to stay up late, as the aurora will likely appear around 10 p.m. to midnight local time. If you’re in the north or Canada, the aurora will appear earlier in the evening, possibly stretching higher into the sky during stronger bursts.
Keep in mind that cloud cover will be the biggest factor in whether you’ll get to see the aurora. Clear skies in Ohio Valley and the Rocky Mountains are predicted to offer the best views. If you’re in the Midwest or the Dakotas, clouds may limit visibility. So, check the weather and find the best spots with clear skies. Dress warmly, grab your camera, and head to an open space where there are no streetlights to block your view.
What You Need to Know About the Solar Storm: A Cosmic Event Like No Other
While the northern lights are the highlight of the event, there is more to this solar storm than meets the eye. The radiation storm caused by the solar flare is the strongest since 2003, and it could have significant effects on satellite communications and aviation. Astronauts on the International Space Station will be exposed to higher radiation levels during this event. Similarly, passengers on flights that pass over the polar regions could experience increased radiation exposure. The solar storm also raises concerns about the electrical grid, although it’s unlikely to cause widespread damage.
Despite these potential effects, the northern lights remain one of nature’s most awe-inspiring phenomena. The solar flare has created the perfect conditions for a spectacular light show that could be visible in places that would usually never see it. Prepare yourself for a stunning cosmic event that will be remembered for years to come!
Nebraska
Nebraska youth rally honors MLK’s legacy with call to action for unity and love
LINCOLN, Neb. — The University of Nebraska at Lincoln commemorated Martin Luther King Jr. Day with the 31st Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Youth Rally, bringing the community together both in person and online. This year’s theme, “The Audacity to Walk Together in Love,” was inspired by Dr. King’s Nobel Peace Prize speech, urging participants to act with courage, unity and compassion.
Organized by K–12 youth scholars, the rally celebrated the legacies of Dr. King and local civil rights leader Dr. Leola Bullock, encouraging young people to transform love into action. Becklin, a planning committee member, highlighted the importance of perseverance, stating that audacity means “pushing forward even after setbacks while staying committed to change.”
Moigen Boyd Jr., a rally member, challenged attendees to engage in “one kind, audacious talk with your neighbor,” emphasizing that “the world doesn’t change from loudest talks. It changes from the bravest ones.” Addison Olds, another rally member, echoed Dr. King’s sentiment that “injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere,” noting its continued relevance.
For many students, Dr. King’s message still resonates just as powerfully today.
“King once said that injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere, and today that echoes louder than ever,” said Addison Olds, a member of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Youth Rally.
Lead advisor Peter Ferguson, in his 29th year, affirmed that the rally remains focused on Dr. King’s vision of the Beloved Community, rooted in purpose and love. Belinda Qiao, also a rally member, reminded participants that “each of us has the power to be part of the solution” by learning from one another and embracing differences.
The UNITY CommUNITY Rally featured music, storytelling and interactive activities, while the Call to Action Program showcased original youth performances, spoken word, and a reenactment of April 4, 1968. The event concluded with performances from the Rally CommUNITY Choir and a special message from Jamersyn Hughes, Junior Mayor of Statesboro, Georgia.
Nebraska
Coaching Staff Changes Are Part of the Deal at Nebraska Now
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There are about a hundred things that are vastly different now in college football than they were back when Tom Osborne took the reins at Nebraska in 1973. One of those that’s taken for granted now, which used to be a much bigger deal, is the continuity of the coaching staff. During Osborne’s tenure, staff changes were not just unusual, they were rare. Guys like legendary Defensive Coordinator Charlie McBride, George Darlington, Milt Tenopir and future head coach Frank Solich were pretty much Huskers for life.
Nowadays, guys change jobs and schools like they change socks. Sometimes it’s the coaches decision, and sometimes it’s not.
The notion that a head coach like Osborne would have employed three different defensive coordinators in three years was laughable. That sort of thing just didn’t happen.
Staff Changes Happen for Very Different Reasons Now
Fast forward. It can and it did happen to Matt Rhule. His first DC, Tony White, left for “more autonomy” and a higher profile at Florida State. White’s replacement John Butler didn’t work out this past season. Now Rob Aurich will take over for next season with high expectations…but clearly a very short leash.
Rhule isn’t the only coach who goes through yearly staff changes nowadays. If a guy is doing a great job – like Nebraska Special Teams coach Mike Ekeler did this past season – other programs take notice. And in this era, that typically means a rapid promotion.
It now appears that Ekeler will be moving on, unexpectedly, to take over the special team unit at Big Ten rival Southern Cal after just a single season back in his home state at Nebraska. The Huskers vast improvement in special teams play last season wasn’t a secret, and clearly other teams took note.
After being one of the worst special teams units in the country in 2024, the improvement in 2025 was noteworthy. Midway through last season Rhule offered Ekeler as new contract with a significant raise, which the well-traveled and highly regarded assistant coach did not sign. It was (and still is, for the moment) Ekeler’s second stint with Nebraska after he spent two seasons 2008-2010 coaching the linebackers under Husker Head Coach Bo Pelini. The native of David City, Nebraska (just 50 miles from Lincoln) also began his coaching career as a high school coach in Omaha. These facts are why Ekeler’s impending departure has caught Rhule and Husker faithful by surprise.
Ekeler’s System Will Remain Even if He Doesn’t
Rhule has said he won’t replace Ekeler with an outside hire as he has done with each of the other coaching changes he’s made this offseason. Instead, he will continue to employ the same system with Ekeler’s former assistants calling those shots.
Going into this fourth season in Lincoln next fall, Rhule will have very different coaches and systems in other places, like the offensive line, where veteran O-Line coach Geep Wade has already gotten his unit much larger and more experienced via the Transfer Portal. The same can be said for Aurich’s defense, which will have more veteran linebackers and edge rushers. Expect new edge rush coach Roy Manning to have Nebraska putting a lot more pressure on opposing quarterbacks next season.
And if these new coaches have units that excel, don’t be shocked if other programs come calling with promotions and bigger paychecks for them next offseason. We don’t live in Tom Osborne’s world anymore.
Mark Knudson Mark is a former MLB pitcher for the Houston Astros, Milwaukee Brewers and Colorado Rockies. He’s the only person ever to play high school, college and professional baseball in Colorado. Mark earned a BA in Technical Journalism from Colorado State University and has worked in radio, television and print sports media since 1994. He’s the co-author of “Pitching to the Corners” with former teammate Don August and the author of “Just Imagine,” a historical fiction novel about The Beatles.
Mark is currently a feature writer and columnist for Mile High Sports in Denver and recently joined the team at Heavy.com. Mark is also a high school baseball coach in the Denver area. More about Mark Knudson
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