Elite Line Recruits Take Notice of Nebraska's Potential Despite Loss

Nebraska’s 30–27 loss to Michigan may have stung for fans, but on the recruiting trail it could prove to be exactly what Matt Rhule needs to turn the program around.

As covered in last week’s preview, Nebraska’s Michigan Weekend Visitor List Shows How Matt Rhule Is Reshaping Recruiting, the Huskers hosted a loaded group of 34 visitors to open conference play. Among them, 12 of the 25 uncommitted recruits were offensive and defensive linemen. While home losses on big visit weekends can sometimes sour the mood, Nebraska’s narrow defeat may actually strengthen its pitch to trench players in attendance. Here’s why.

QB Dylan Raiola with his uncle Donovan Raiola, offensive line coach, during Nebraska's 2025 game vs. Houston Christian. — Kenny Larabee, KLIN

Though the run game was largely ineffective, offensive line recruits still witnessed elite quarterback play as Dylan Raiola threw for 308 yards and three touchdowns. With a front row seat, Raiola's performance gave prospects a clear picture of what it would look like to block for 2027 QB commit Trae Taylor in Memorial Stadium in the future. Even after allowing seven sacks, Nebraska’s offense still moved the ball enough to nearly steal the game, showing tangible proof to recruits that the program is close to turning the corner.

It’s rare to see a team outmuscled in the trenches for four quarters and still nearly win. While “almost” doesn’t count in the record book, it gives Nebraska’s staff a powerful talking point: visible progress is being made, and recruits can help provide the final push.

The defense delivered flashes as well, limiting Michigan to just 105 passing yards. For high-profile defensive line prospects, it showed an opportunity to wreak havoc up front. Add in the chance for early playing time, and recruits left Lincoln knowing they could make an immediate impact.

Class of 2027, 2028 Linemen Visitors List | Trevor Tarr

Of the 12 linemen in attendance, nine were four-star prospects or higher. Seeing players like Elijah Pritchett, a near five-star, and Williams Nwaneri, a former top 10 recruit, already carving out roles in Lincoln only reinforces the blueprint for success. Their presence shows younger prospects how high-end talent can come to Nebraska and have the chance to thrive.

Staying competitive with Michigan despite the talent gap in the trenches is encouraging to say the least. As Rhule prioritizes building strength up front, landing players like five-star Kennedy Brown could be what takes Nebraska over the top. Each visit weekend strengthens those relationships, and if it leads to commitments down the road, moments like Saturday will be worth it.

In the end, Nebraska’s narrow defeat was painful but promising in the bigger picture of it all. The recruits in attendance saw a team on the brink, and with their help, it could turn into one that's finally ready for a breakthrough.

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