Nebraska’s 2023 season started with a fresh start – new head coach, new coaching staff, and many new players. However, the outcome seemed all too familiar as the Huskers let a 10-3 lead slip away against Minnesota, falling 13-10 in their opening game.
The Golden Gophers secured the win with a game-winning 46-yard field goal from Dragan Kesich as time expired. This decisive kick followed two consecutive turnovers by Nebraska, resulting in ten points for Minnesota. The Huskers also struggled with penalties, accumulating seven and losing a total of 55 yards, including a crucial penalty on the goal line just before halftime.
Apart from these setbacks, the game was a tense battle throughout. Only three points were scored in the first half, all courtesy of Kesich to give Minnesota a narrow 3-0 lead. Just before halftime, Nebraska attempted a touchdown play with only 11 seconds left, which unfortunately ended in an interception and no points on the board. This missed opportunity would haunt the Huskers in the end.
However, Nebraska came out strong in the second half. Rahmir Johnson kick-started the momentum with a spectacular 65-yard kickoff return. Then, in a broken play, Jeff Sims seized the opportunity and connected with a wide-open Alex Bullock for a 34-yard touchdown, turning the game around for the Huskers.
Despite throwing three interceptions during the night, Sims completed 11 of his 19 passes for 114 yards. He also showcased his rushing abilities, accumulating 91 yards from 19 carries. Later in the game, Omar Brown intercepted a pass, leading to Tristan Alvano extending Nebraska’s lead to 10-3 with a 27-yard field goal.
However, with less than five minutes remaining, Anthony Grant fumbled the ball, giving the Golden Gophers a chance near midfield. Athan Kaliakmanis capitalized on this opportunity and connected with Daniel Jackson on fourth down for a game-tying 13-yard touchdown with only 2:32 left on the clock.
To complicate matters further, Sims threw a devastating interception with less than a minute remaining. It all culminated in Kesich’s game-winning field goal, sealing the defeat for the Huskers.
Unfortunately, this loss marks the fourth consecutive season opener defeat for Nebraska. Their next game will be against Colorado on September 9, with kickoff scheduled for 11 a.m. and televised on FOX.
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