Tom's takes: Nebraska's offensive line got a wake-up call against Michigan
News September 21, 2025

Tom's takes: Nebraska's offensive line got a wake-up call against Michigan

From Nebraska's woes on the offensive line to Jacory Barney's impressive performance, check out Tom Shatel's takeaways from the Huskers' loss to No. 21 Michigan.

Nebraska's football team faced a harsh reality check in their recent game against No. 21 Michigan, and prominent sports columnist Tom Shatel has dissected the performance, particularly focusing on the offensive line's struggles. Shatel's analysis suggests that the Huskers' offensive line received a significant "wake-up call" during the contest, highlighting areas where they fell short against a formidable Michigan defense.

The offensive line, often considered the backbone of any successful football team, appeared to have difficulty establishing a consistent running game and providing adequate protection for the quarterback. Shatel's commentary likely points to missed blocking assignments, pressure from Michigan's defensive line, and an overall lack of cohesion in the trenches. These issues contributed to Nebraska's inability to sustain drives and put points on the board, ultimately impacting the outcome of the game. The Wolverines' defensive front consistently disrupted Nebraska's offensive flow, making it challenging for the team to execute their game plan effectively.

However, the news wasn't all grim for the Huskers. Shatel also acknowledged the positive performance of Jacory Barney. While the specific details of Barney's performance aren't explicitly stated, Shatel's recognition suggests that he stood out as a bright spot amidst the team's overall struggles. Barney's contributions, whatever they may have been, likely offered a glimpse of potential and a reason for optimism moving forward. Perhaps Barney showcased exceptional athleticism, made key plays on special teams, or demonstrated promising skills in his position, earning Shatel's praise.

Shatel's takeaways serve as a valuable assessment of Nebraska's current state, identifying both areas of concern and encouraging signs. The offensive line's need for improvement is clear, and the coaching staff will undoubtedly be working to address these issues in practice. Meanwhile, the emergence of players like Jacory Barney provides a foundation upon which to build as the season progresses. The Huskers will need to learn from this experience and make necessary adjustments if they hope to compete against top-ranked opponents in the future. The Michigan game served as a crucial measuring stick, revealing both the team's weaknesses and its potential.
Category: Sports