Big Ten Paradigm: Nebraska’s Rising Confidence

Week 3 of the 2025 college football season brought plenty of drama across the country, but inside the Big Ten, the storylines hit close to home. From a shocking coaching change to Nebraska’s early growth, fans already have plenty to discuss.

Raiola Steps Up For Nebraska

On this week’s Big Ten Paradigm podcast, host Noah Drury welcomed Omaha radio voice Connor Happer to break down the Cornhuskers’ start. Dylan Raiola’s maturity has impressed early, showing command of the huddle and making smart decisions with the football. Happer noted how the sophomore has avoided risky plays while still pushing the Huskers’ offense forward. With improved receivers and steadier play-calling under new leadership, Nebraska’s attack looks far more balanced than a year ago.

UCLA’s Big Ten struggles continue

Beyond Lincoln, UCLA’s problems dominated headlines. Head coach DeShaun Foster was fired after just 15 games following a 35–10 loss to New Mexico. The Bruins have yet to find their identity in the Big Ten, struggling in the trenches and falling behind physically against league opponents. The firing was made easier by a modest buyout, but the larger issue remains: UCLA’s inability to adapt to its new conference is troublesome.

Big Ten Week 3 recap and what’s next

Elsewhere, USC outlasted Purdue in a weather-delayed contest, while Cal surprised Minnesota behind freshman QB Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele. Oregon handled Northwestern despite some late drama, and Michigan State revealed both promise and concern in a victory over Youngstown State. Looking ahead, Nebraska hosts Michigan in one of the most anticipated matchups of Week 4. As Happer explained, the Huskers’ secondary could be key against Michigan’s talented receivers, while the Cornhuskers’ front must disrupt Bryce Underwood.

With conference play ramping up, the next two weeks will shape early playoff conversations. Nebraska isn’t there yet, but as Happer noted, a win over Michigan would change everything.
Listen to “Big Ten Paradigm Week 3 Recap Mixdown 1” on Spreaker.