'It's Why We're Here': Dana Holgorsen, John Butler Turn Focus to Michigan, Big Ten Play

LINCOLN—Dana Holgorsen is ready to get into Big Ten Conference play.

Speaking with the media on Tuesday, the Husker offensive coordinator said these types of games are why people come to Nebraska.

"This is why we're all here," Holgorsen said. "It's why I'm here. It's why this coaching staff is here. Why the majority of our players came here is for Big Ten football, the highest level of football."

Holgorsen said it was "awesome" to dip his toe into league games last year, taking over the play calling with three games to go in the regular season.

"There's a lot of really good defenses that have played in this league," Holgorsen said. "Michigan certainly set the standard for that for a long time."

As for what Michigan does offensively, freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood has shown a strong ability to run the football. That's something that Nebraska defensive coordinator John Butler knows gave them fits in the season opener.

"Quarterbacks that move out of the pocket are a little bit of a concern," Butler said. "But we saw that in Week 1. We made our adjustments both schematically and philosophically. I think we're going to be more prepared for that part of the game, in terms of how we call the game, how we approach that player."

Nebraska defensive coordinator John Butler shouts as head coach Matt Rhule looks on during the Huskers' 2025 game against — Nebraska defensive coordinator John Butler shouts as head coach Matt Rhule looks on. | Kenny Larabee, KLIN

In the pass game, Nebraska has yet to allow an opponent to reach the 70-yard mark. Michigan is averaging 209 yards a game through the air.

"They have a nice collection of guys," Butler said of Michigan's pass catchers, identifying Semaj Morgan, Donaven McCulley, and Andrew Marsh. "Their tight ends present some problems for us, both on the inside and the outside.

"We're stepping into Big Ten play, no disrespect to the previous teams we've played, but the the competition level is going to increase."

You can watch the full media session from Tuesday below. Continue scrolling for more coverage.

Coverage

Husker247 | Holgorsen ready for the challenges that come with Big Ten play
HuskerOnline* | Coordinator report: Holgorsen laments wasted plays in deep red zone
HuskerOnline* | Tuesday nuggets: Huskers gear up for big challenges vs. Michigan
Inside Nebraska* | Butler Rundown: Nebraska defensive coordinator previews Michigan
Omaha World-Herald* | How Dylan Raiola got inspiration from boxer Terence Crawford for Michigan week
Omaha World-Herald* | Henry Lutovsky and offensive line to face first Big Ten test
Omaha World-Herald* | Heinrich Haarberg's new role as 'tush push' QB and big-time blocker
Omaha World-Herald* | Nebraska players embrace high standards ahead of Michigan game
Omaha World-Herald* | Holgorsen couldn't be happier that Big Ten play is here
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From the Other Side

Michigan On SI | Why Nebraska is a must-win game for Michigan
MLive | ‘Twitched up’ Michigan linebacker expected to see more time as edge rusher
Detroit Free Press* | Justice Haynes, one of top RBs in nation, not focused on eye-popping numbers
Michigan Insider | Takeaways from Biff Poggi, Lou Esposito’s interviews ahead of Nebraska game
Michigan On SI | Young gun showdown: Dylan Raiola vs. Bryce Underwood
Michigan Daily | Semaj Morgan becoming a reliable connection for Bryce Underwood
Michigan Daily | In seven days, Michigan’s offensive philosophy evolves
MLive | Michigan could have position battle brewing along OL before Nebraska game
MLive | Is Michigan’s revamped offense ready for Big Ten? Nebraska will provide first test
MLive* | Justice Haynes stuffing stat sheet early for Michigan, and sharing touchdowns
Detroit Free Press* | How Biff Poggi became Michigan's trusted agent and known friend
The Wolverine | Expect Michigan to use Jaishawn Barham at edge more: 'So disruptive you have to account for him'
The Wolverine* | Three takeaways from Biff Poggi radio show: 'Nothing held back' for Nebraska

More Info

Nebraska Football 2025 Schedule

Aug. 28 Nebraska 20, Cincinnati 17
Sep. 6 Nebraska 68, Akron 0
Sep. 13 Nebraska 59, Houston Christian 7
Sep. 20 vs. Michigan 2:30 p.m. CBS
Oct. 4 vs. Michigan State 11/2:30/3
Oct. 11 at Maryland TBA
Oct. 17 (Friday) at Minnesota 7 p.m. FOX
Oct. 25 vs. Northwestern TBA
Nov. 1 vs. USC TBA
Nov. 8 at UCLA TBA
Nov. 22 at Penn State TBA
Nov. 28 (Black Friday) vs. Iowa 11 a.m. CBS

Home games are bolded. All times central.

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