The Nebraska Cornhuskers are generating early buzz for the 2026-27 postseason, with a new bowl projection placing them in a marquee matchup against an SEC opponent. According to Brett McMurphy (subscription required), the Huskers are slated to face the Ole Miss Rebels at the Music City Bowl in Nashville—a clash that would reignite a rare rivalry.

These two programs have met just once before, in the 2002 Independence Bowl, where the Rebels edged Nebraska 27-23. Now, over two decades later, a rematch could be on the horizon, offering the Huskers a chance to settle the score on a national stage.

Nebraska enters year four of the Matt Rhule era, poised to build on recent progress. The 2026 schedule is a gauntlet, and the Huskers are eager to elevate after finishing 7-6 in 2025. A key storyline will be the offense under center, with quarterback Dylan Raiola departing for Oregon. Stepping into the spotlight is Anthony Colandrea, a dynamic transfer from UNLV who brings a proven track record of success.

Defensively, the Huskers are undergoing a philosophical shift under new coordinator Rob Aurich. After three seasons running a 3-3-5 scheme under Rhule, Aurich will implement a 4-2-5 alignment, aiming to add versatility and pressure. This change could be pivotal as Nebraska looks to compete in a loaded Big Ten landscape.

Rhule has already revitalized the program, guiding the Huskers to bowl games in each of the last two seasons—ending a lengthy postseason drought. Nebraska has appeared in the Music City Bowl only once before, falling to Tennessee 38-24 in 2016. Facing Ole Miss in Nashville would give the Huskers a shot at redemption and a statement win against an SEC powerhouse.