TJ Birkel

TJ Birkel

Joined: Aug 16, 2024

T.J. Birkel is the creator and co-host of the Common Fan Podcast, a Nebraska football podcast focused entirely on Husker football, all the time. We aim to create meaningful episodes and written commentary that fans like us will enjoy, infused with heavy doses of fun and frivolity. We work hard to cover the latest Husker news of the day; to provide insightful commentary and analysis on all things Husker football; and to bring unique stories and perspectives that may not be covered by the media but that Common Fans will enjoy. GBR for LIFE!

Nov 28, 2025; Lincoln, Nebraska, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers head coach Matt Rhule reacts to a non-call on a play during the third quarter against the Iowa Hawkeyes at Memorial Stadium.

Iowa quarterback Mark Gronowski scrambles against Nebraska linebacker Marques Watson-Trent during the third quarter.

Nov 1, 2025; Lincoln, Nebraska, USA; Fireworks go off during the light show between the third and four quarter between the Nebraska Cornhuskers and the Southern California Trojans at Memorial Stadium.

Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz looks on during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Nebraska, Friday, Nov. 25, 2022, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Nov 22, 2025; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions wide receiver Devonte Ross (5) runs with the ball before being tackled by Nebraska Cornhuskers defensive back Ceyair Wright (1) during the second quarter at Beaver Stadium.

Nebraska football walked into Happy Valley on Saturday night needing a breakthrough — and instead got bulldozed.

Nebraska defensive coordinator John Butler and head coach Matt Rhule.

Football

Three years into the Matt Rhule era, Nebraska shouldn’t be getting dominated like this.

Southern California Trojans quarterback Jayden Maiava runs against Nebraska Cornhuskers defensive lineman Elijah Jeudy.

Recruiting

How Nebraska plans to compete for top talent — and the positions that need immediate upgrades.

Oct 11, 2025; College Park, Maryland, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers head coach Matt Rhule walks on the field during the game against the Maryland Terrapins at SECU Stadium.

Football

Looking ahead to the matchup against the Nittany Lions.

Nov 8, 2025; Pasadena, California, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers quarterback TJ Lateef (14) throws against the UCLA Bruins during the first half at the Rose Bowl.

Football

Mitch Sherman on Lateef, Raiola, and looking ahead to 2026.

Nov 8, 2025; Pasadena, California, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers running back Emmett Johnson (21) runs the ball against the UCLA Bruins during the first half at the Rose Bowl.

Football

Assessing EJ's chances at the Heisman Trophy and other postseason honors.

Nebraska quarterback TJ Lateef runs the ball against the UCLA Bruins at the Rose Bowl.

Football

Mitch Sherman of The Athletic joins the Common Fans to discuss TJ Lateef, the remainder of Nebraska’s season, the outlook for recruiting and the transfer portal, possible bowl destinations, and much more.

Nov 8, 2025; Pasadena, California, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers head coach Matt Rhule watches game action against the UCLA Bruins during the second half at the Rose Bowl.

Football

Huskers look to finish strong with two games left in the regular season.

Nebraska Cornhuskers quarterback TJ Lateef runs the ball against the UCLA Bruins during the first half at the Rose Bowl.

True freshman shines and the Huskers roll in Pasadena.

Nov 8, 2025; Pasadena, California, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers quarterback TJ Lateef (14) drops back to pass against the UCLA Bruins during the second half at the Rose Bowl.

Lateef brought the juice, Emmett brought the fire, and Nebraska brought home a statement win under the lights in LA.

UCLA Bruins quarterback Nico Iamaleava throws a pass against the Indiana Hoosiers on Oct. 25.

Matt Rhule’s team heads to the Rose Bowl searching for redemption — and answers on offense.

UCLA Bruins wide receiver Rico Flores Jr.

Evan Bland joins the Common Fans to discuss the loss to USC, Dylan Raiola’s injury, and the upcoming game against UCLA.