Imagine this: a football game so intense, it keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very last second. That’s exactly what happened when the Nebraska Huskers pulled off a stunning 34-31 comeback win against Maryland. But here’s where it gets controversial—was it sheer determination or a stroke of luck that sealed the deal for the Huskers? Let’s dive into the details and you decide.
On a crisp October 11, 2025, quarterback Dylan Raiola showcased his prowess, completing 20 out of 29 passes for 260 yards and four touchdowns. And this is the part most people miss—Raiola’s performance wasn’t just about numbers; it was about clutch plays when it mattered most. With just 1:08 left on the clock, Raiola connected with Dane Key on a three-yard touchdown pass, capping a thrilling fourth-quarter rally that left Maryland stunned.
The Huskers, now 5-1 overall and 2-1 in the Big Ten, trailed 31-24 heading into the final quarter. But they outscored Maryland 10-0 in those crucial minutes, proving why this team is earning its reputation as a comeback king. Down 31-27 with 3:42 remaining and backed up on their own 19-yard line, Nebraska marched 81 yards in just seven plays for the go-ahead score. Raiola’s precision was on full display, completing 4 of 5 passes for 72 yards, including a 23-yard strike to Luke Lindenmeyer, a 33-yard connection with Nyziah Hunter, and a 13-yard pass to Heinrich Haarberg to set up the game-winning touchdown.
Hunter, by the way, had a day to remember, hauling in five catches for a career-high 125 yards and two touchdowns. Here’s a bold statement—Hunter’s performance could be a turning point in his college career, solidifying his role as Raiola’s go-to receiver. But what do you think? Is Hunter the breakout star we’ve been waiting for?
Maryland, now 4-2 and 1-2 in the Big Ten, had one last chance to force overtime, reaching the Nebraska 49-yard line with 23 seconds left. But on fourth and four, DeShon Singleton broke up Malik Washington’s pass to Dorian Fleming, sealing the Husker victory. Controversial question—did Maryland’s playcalling in those final moments cost them the game, or was it simply Nebraska’s defense stepping up?
Emmett Johnson was another standout for Nebraska, rushing for a career-high 175 yards on 21 carries—the most by a Husker in a Big Ten game since 2020. His 50-yard rush to the Maryland 10-yard line was a game-changer, setting up Kyle Cunanan’s 27-yard field goal that pulled Nebraska within 31-27. Johnson’s relentless effort earned him nearly 200 all-purpose yards, proving why he’s a force to be reckoned with.
The game was a back-and-forth affair with five lead changes, showcasing both teams’ resilience. Nebraska initially took a 7-0 lead on their second offensive possession when Raiola connected with Hunter on a 64-yard screen pass that left Maryland’s defense in the dust. The Huskers extended their lead to 10-0 after Cunanan’s 43-yard field goal, but Maryland responded with Nolan Ray’s 28-yard touchdown run and a 21-yard scoring pass from Washington to Leon Haughton Jr., taking a 14-10 lead.
Nebraska’s special teams stepped up when Kenneth Williams returned a kickoff 85 yards to the Maryland 10-yard line, setting up Raiola’s seven-yard touchdown pass to Lindenmeyer. The Huskers extended their lead to 24-14 after Raiola found Hunter again, this time on a 12-yard strike. But Maryland clawed back, with Sean O’Haire’s 37-yard field goal making it 24-17 at halftime.
The second half saw Maryland tie the game at 24-all on DeJuan Williams’ one-yard run, and they took a 31-24 lead after Dontay Joyner intercepted Raiola and returned it 67 yards for a touchdown. Here’s where it gets interesting—Nebraska’s three turnovers led to 17 Maryland points. Was this a case of Maryland capitalizing on mistakes, or did Nebraska’s defense falter in critical moments?
With Maryland leading 31-24 early in the fourth quarter, the Terrapins had a chance to extend their lead but were stopped on third and two, eventually punting the ball away. That set the stage for Nebraska’s final two scoring drives, including the game-winning touchdown. Thought-provoking question—did Maryland’s inability to capitalize on opportunities cost them the game, or was Nebraska’s comeback simply unstoppable?
The Huskers now head to Minnesota for their next game, set for 7 p.m. next Friday night on FOX. After this thrilling win, one thing is clear: this Nebraska team is relentless, and they’re not done making waves in the Big Ten. But what’s your take? Is Nebraska a legitimate contender this season, or do they still have work to do? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
