Nebraska's 2026 football season is projected to be a challenging one, according to ESPN's College Football Power Index (FPI). Despite ranking 30th in the country, the Huskers are only the ninth-best team in the Big Ten, with a projected win total of 6.7 and a 0.0% chance of winning the conference. This is despite having a difficult schedule, including games against Ohio State, Oregon, and Indiana. However, the Huskers' strength of schedule ranks 20th in the country, and four Big Ten teams have more difficult schedules. ESPN's FPI gives the first 59 teams a chance to make the national title game, with Ohio State and Texas having the best chances. Nebraska's new quarterback, Anthony Colandrea, and retooled offensive line, led by center Justin Evans and new offensive line coach Geep Wade, may help improve their chances. The Huskers' 2025 FPI rankings were 44th, and they are starting off in a better place in 2026, at 30th. However, the consensus is that Nebraska's win total will be in the six-to-seven range, which would put them in a bowl game for the third consecutive season. This is a positive sign, but the Huskers will need to improve their performance to reach their potential.
