Nebraska Cornhuskers a massive unknown in early Big Ten power rankings

A “way too early” Big Ten power ranking is always appropriate! Things are about to shift. Although injuries will occur, players will harm the portal, and there will be a lot of transfer portal activity, for the most part, we have a decent idea of rosters following National Signing Day.

We will reveal the starting positions of all 18 teams in the new look conference in each installment of this series. The Ohio State Buckeyes, after their makeover, were our first pick. Next, the Oregon Ducks occupy the second position. The reigning National Champions, the Michigan Wolverines, who are going through a bit of a change, came in at number three.

We introduced the Penn State Nittany Lions, who have a lot of talent returning from their 2023 roster, at No. 4. Next, we made room for the dependable Iowa Hawkeyes. The USC Trojans, another recent newcomer to the conference, are ranked No. 6. The Wisconsin Badgers were ranked No. 7 in the rankings, and the Washington Huskies were ranked No. 8.

The Minnesota Golden Gophers are a somewhat reliable program that comes in at number nine. They are a true wildcard going into the 2024 campaign. When it comes to wildcards, the Nebraska Cornhuskers could be the biggest. They rank tenth out of all the contenders.

Under Matt Rhule, you witnessed encouraging indicators of progress in the first year. They weren’t particularly gifted, no. The squad played with a higher level of competitiveness, but that roster needed a major change, which is currently happening. It was evident that support for what they are creating was there.

The offensive line in 2024 will have a fascinating blend of experienced players and up-and-coming talent. The Cornhuskers added two big-bodied pass catchers with a lot of upside when they added wide receivers Isaiah Neyor (Texas) and Jahmal Banks (Wake Forest) as transfers. When you combine it with a heavily experienced offensive line, you get a rather experienced team.

There is high speculation that five-star freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola may start sooner than later. There should be some growing pains along the way but Raiola is the most talented signal caller that Nebraska has featured in a very long time. How good they are in 2024 will depend on how seamless that Raiola’s transition could be.

On defense, Nebraska was rock solid in year one under Coach Rhule. That unit should again be a good overall unit, led by Nash Hutmacher and Ty Robinson, who brings a lot of size to the defensive line. The Cornhuskers should be a tough out in 2024, although they could still be a year away.