Wide Receivers & Tight Ends: Who Stepped Up, Who Didn’t for Nebraska

Nebraska’s passing game told two stories, as some receivers and tight ends seized their moment while others were quiet. We take a closer look at the pass-catchers' performances against Michigan.

Nebraska wide receiver Jacory Barney Jr. reacts after catching a Hail Mary touchdown to end the first half. | Kenny Larabee, KLIN

Nebraska’s aerial attack faced a critical test in its latest outing against No. 21 Michigan. While a few wide receivers and tight ends stepped up with timely catches and crisp route execution, others struggled to find separation or make the most of their opportunities. In this article, we break down the performances that moved the chains and the ones that left the offense searching for answers.

Who Made an Impact?

Wide Receiver Jacory Barney Jr.

Wide receiver Jacory Barney Jr. emerged as Nebraska’s top playmaker in the passing game, finishing with six receptions for 120 yards and two touchdowns. He consistently found space against Michigan’s secondary, stretching the field and giving quarterback Dylan Raiola a dependable deep threat.

His highlight came on a 52-yard Hail Mary grab to close the first half, a spectacular play that tied the score. Barney’s explosiveness and timing were crucial in keeping Nebraska’s offense afloat.

Nebraska Cornhuskers wide receiver Jacory Barney Jr. catches a pass against the Michigan Wolverines. | Dylan Widger-Imagn Images

Tight End Heinrich Haarberg

Though not a frequent target in the passing game, tight end Heinrich Haarberg made his presence felt with a 3-yard touchdown reception, cutting the Huskers' deficit to three points late in the game. Beyond the stat sheet, his blocking played a vital role in anchoring Nebraska’s run game, providing stability and physicality at the point of attack.

Haarberg closed out the game with three catches for 18 yards and a touchdown, averaging six yards per grab.

Tight End Luke Lindenmeyer

Tight end Luke Lindenmeyer contributed in key moments and helped move the chains. His blocking was solid throughout the game, supporting Nebraska’s run game and pass protection amid Michigan’s relentless pressure. Overall, he played a steady, complementary role in the Huskers’ offensive effort.

Lindenmeyer wrapped up the game with seven catches for 60 yards, averaging a steady 8.6 yards per reception.

Who Fell Short?

Nebraska Cornhuskers wide receivers Jacory Barney Jr. and Nyziah Hunter. | Dylan Widger-Imagn Images

Wide receivers Dane Key and Nyziah Hunter had a low-key outing, combining for just five receptions and 70 yards. Key often struggled to create separation against Michigan’s secondary, limiting his impact in key situations.

Hunter, meanwhile, committed a costly penalty for illegal touching by stepping out of bounds before making a catch in the end zone at the end of the third quarter, stalling a promising drive as the Huskers settled for a field goal. With their production muted, the burden fell heavily on Barney to spark Nebraska’s passing game.

Nebraska’s receiving corps showed flashes of promise but also exposed areas that need refinement. Barney proved he can be a game-changer, while tight ends like Haarberg and Lindenmeyer offered steady support in key moments. Yet the quiet outings from Key and Hunter highlight the inconsistency that still plagues this unit.

If the Huskers want to unlock their full offensive potential, they’ll need more than isolated sparks. They’ll need cohesion, reliability, and a broader cast of contributors stepping up when it counts.

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