Link: http://collegefootballnews.com/2016/big-ten-week-1-game-previews-predictions-lines-tv
Fresno State (0-0) at Nebraska (0-0)
Saturday, September 3 | 7:00 p.m. | Big Ten Network
For two programs in desperate need of a positive start, the opener is going to be more than just a Nebraska coronation. Fresno State needs to come up with a good showing after a miserable 2015.
The Bulldogs have switched up coordinators to try cranking up an offense that averaged just 315 yards per game, and a defense that finished 101st in the country and couldn't seem to do much of anything right.
This year, Fresno State has a good enough secondary to slow down the Husker passing game, and some dynamic new parts in the backfield -- starting with redshirt freshman quarterback Chason Virgil -- to challenge a highly-questionable Nebraska defensive front that'll need time and work.
However, Fresno State doesn't have the lines. The Husker defensive front might have to undergo an overhaul, but it's not going to get powered on. The O line should be able to blast away and go with a more powerful attack when needed. It'll be an inspired Nebraska effort -- there won't be any need to worry about a Hail Mary like last year against BYU.
Prediction: Nebraska 40, Fresno State 23
Spread: Nebraska is favored at home by 28 points
Fresno State (0-0) at Nebraska (0-0)
Saturday, September 3 | 7:00 p.m. | Big Ten Network
For two programs in desperate need of a positive start, the opener is going to be more than just a Nebraska coronation. Fresno State needs to come up with a good showing after a miserable 2015.
The Bulldogs have switched up coordinators to try cranking up an offense that averaged just 315 yards per game, and a defense that finished 101st in the country and couldn't seem to do much of anything right.
This year, Fresno State has a good enough secondary to slow down the Husker passing game, and some dynamic new parts in the backfield -- starting with redshirt freshman quarterback Chason Virgil -- to challenge a highly-questionable Nebraska defensive front that'll need time and work.
However, Fresno State doesn't have the lines. The Husker defensive front might have to undergo an overhaul, but it's not going to get powered on. The O line should be able to blast away and go with a more powerful attack when needed. It'll be an inspired Nebraska effort -- there won't be any need to worry about a Hail Mary like last year against BYU.
Prediction: Nebraska 40, Fresno State 23
Spread: Nebraska is favored at home by 28 points
