Nebraska’s Offensive Blueprint vs Akron

Nebraska returns to Memorial Stadium with momentum and a mission.

Fresh off a gritty 20–17 win over Cincinnati, the Huskers now face Akron in a matchup that offers more than just a scoreboard tune-up. It’s a chance to sharpen execution, expand the playbook, and showcase quarterback Dylan Raiola’s command of a system built for tempo and versatility. Under the direction of head coach Matt Rhule and offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen, Nebraska’s offense is built to marry downhill run fits with layered vertical threats. An approach that’s likely to stress Akron’s defensive integrity from the opening snap.

Offensive Identity

Nebraska’s offensive identity is rooted in rhythm and control, as evidenced by its 39-minute time of possession against Cincinnati, a deliberate approach that wears down defenses and sets the tempo. The Huskers leaned heavily on high-percentage passing, completing 78.6 percent of their throws in Week 1, a clear sign that the scheme emphasizes quick reads, clean mechanics, and efficient ball distribution.

Firing a pass during the third quarter against Cincinnati is Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola. | Kenny Larabee, KLIN

Against Akron, expect Holgorsen to expand the vertical stretch elements of the playbook, layering deep shots off play-action and tempo sequences to exploit the Zips’ soft zone coverage and test their defensive discipline early.

Playmaker Roles

Raiola stands at the heart of Nebraska’s offensive blueprint, bringing arm talent, poise, and field vision that allow the Huskers to stretch defenses vertically and manipulate coverage structures. Behind him, the running back rotation offers versatility and fresh legs, with a committee approach that blends downhill zone concepts with swing passes and RPO tags to keep Akron’s linebackers guessing. Look for running back Emmett Johnson to continue his strong performance after recording 108 yards on 25 carries against Cincinnati.

Tight ends will also play a pivotal role, with motion and split-zone looks designed to create mismatches, especially in red-zone situations where Nebraska can leverage formation variety to isolate defenders and finish drives.

At least one tackle position has worked itself out, and who will step up for Janiran Bonner? Here are three observations on Nebraska's depth chart ahead of the home opener with Akron. https://t.co/H1ncyY0b6r
— Kaleb Henry (@iKalebHenry) September 2, 2025

Akron's Defensive Struggles

Akron enters this matchup with several defensive concerns that Nebraska is well-positioned to exploit. Despite holding Wyoming to just 10 points, the Zips surrendered a late touchdown. They consistently failed to generate meaningful pressure, an issue that could be magnified against a tempo-driven Huskers offense.

Compounding their challenges, Akron faces roster depth limitations, giving Nebraska the freedom to rotate personnel and push the pace without fear of fatigue. With soft zone coverage and shaky intermediate discipline, Akron’s defense is vulnerable to Nebraska’s spacing concepts, layered route combinations, and rhythm-based passing game.

What to Watch For

One of the key storylines to watch in Nebraska’s matchup against Akron will be how the Huskers open the game with scripted drives. Expect motion, tempo, and formation shifts designed to test Akron’s defensive alignment and communication.

Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule and offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen before the 2025 Cincinnati game | Kenny Larabee, KLIN

Raiola’s deep ball timing and pocket movement will be under the microscope, especially as Nebraska looks to stretch the field and capitalize on coverage breakdowns. In the red zone, look for creative wrinkles in personnel groupings and formations, as Rhule and Holgorsen continue to refine their scoring packages and build versatility into the offensive blueprint.

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