The Ohio Bobcats (0-0) take on the Nebraska Cornhuskers (0-0) at Memorial Stadium on September 5, 2026, marking the beginning of the college football season for both teams.
Why it matters: This matchup is notable as it marks the first meeting between Ohio and Nebraska in program history. Both teams are eager to kick off their seasons with a strong performance, setting the tone for the rest of the year.
Ohio finished the 2025 season with a 9-4 record and capped it off with a 17-10 victory over UNLV in the Frisco Bowl.
Nebraska, under head coach Matt Rhule, ended 2025 with a 7-6 record and lost their last game against No. 15 Utah in the Las Vegas Bowl.
The game will be broadcast live on FS1, starting at 12 p.m. ET (11 a.m. CT), allowing fans to watch both teams compete.
Driving the news: The Bobcats enter this game after winning four of their last five games last season, aiming to maintain momentum. Nebraska, meanwhile, looks to bounce back from a disappointing finish in 2025.
Nebraska’s quarterback position is unsettled, with Anthony Colandrea, a transfer from UNLV, expected to start after an impressive season where he threw for 3,459 yards and 23 touchdowns.
Ohio’s Nick Poulos takes over as the starting quarterback after sitting behind Parker Navarro last season, providing a fresh perspective for the Bobcats.
Ohio running back Duncan Brune returns after rushing for 585 yards and eight touchdowns last year, adding depth to the Bobcats' offense.
State of play: Both teams bring different strengths to the field, with Ohio boasting a strong rushing game and Nebraska having a more established passing attack.
In 2025, Ohio averaged 227.4 rushing yards per game, significantly higher than Nebraska's 145.9 rushing yards.
Nebraska held the edge in passing yards, averaging 224.6 yards per game compared to Ohio’s 184.2 yards.
This season, Nebraska is favored by 24 points, indicating strong expectations for their performance.
The big picture: This game is not just about the season opener; it sets the stage for both teams as they aim for bowl eligibility and a successful campaign.
Ohio has a history of success in bowl games, winning seven straight, which boosts their confidence heading into this matchup.
Nebraska's coach Matt Rhule has yet to secure a win against a ranked opponent, and this game could be a stepping stone toward that goal.
The outcome of this game could impact recruiting and the teams' reputations in the coming seasons.
What they're saying: Coaches and players from both teams have expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming matchup.
"We’re excited to start the season strong against a quality opponent like Nebraska," said Ohio coach John Hauser.
Nebraska's head coach Matt Rhule emphasized the importance of this game in setting the tone for the rest of the season.
By the numbers: Key statistics highlight the contrasting styles of play between the two teams.
Ohio averaged 411.5 total yards and 27.8 points per game in 2025, indicating a balanced offensive attack.
Nebraska’s defense allowed an average of 27.3 points per game, showing room for improvement.
Ohio's safety DJ Walker recorded 61 tackles and two interceptions last season, contributing significantly to the team's defensive efforts.
What's next: Fans can look forward to what will likely be a thrilling season opener.
The game kicks off at 12 p.m. ET on September 5, 2026, at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln, Nebraska.
Following this game, both teams will prepare for their next matchups, aiming to build on their performances.
Ohio will look to continue their bowl-winning streak, and Nebraska will seek to improve their record and confidence under their new quarterback.