Nebraska Cornhuskers Edge Maryland Terrapins in Thrilling Showdown

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — The Nebraska Cornhuskers secured a thrilling 34-31 victory over the Maryland Terrapins on Saturday, showcasing resilience in the final moments of the game. Quarterback Dylan Raiola capped off the dramatic finish with a 3-yard touchdown pass to Dane Key, giving the Cornhuskers their second consecutive close win of the season.

Raiola finished the game with 260 passing yards, four touchdowns, and three interceptions. Despite the three turnovers, Nebraska (5-1, 2-1 Big Ten) demonstrated improvement in crunch-time situations, now winning two of three games decided by one score this season.

“Our guys are very, very comfortable in the fourth quarter,” coach Matt Rhule said after the game. “There was a time we were talking about bowl droughts and not winning close games. Well, we’re figuring a lot of that out.”

The Terrapins (4-2, 1-2) led 31-24 in the fourth quarter, but the Cornhuskers bounced back thanks to a crucial 50-yard run by Emmett Johnson, setting Nebraska up at the Maryland 10-yard line. After a field goal brought Nebraska within four points, they regained possession and marched 81 yards down the field in just seven plays to take the lead.

Maryland had a final chance to tie the game. However, a controversial intentional grounding call on quarterback Malik Washington pushed the Terps back 14 yards, ultimately leading to an incomplete pass on fourth down that sealed their fate.

Johnson was a standout for Nebraska, rushing for a career-high 176 yards. “It was a relentless game,” he said. “I’m glad we went through this because it shows we’re battle-tested as a team.”

For the Terrapins, Washington threw for 249 yards and one touchdown but could not overcome the final hurdle. Maryland coach Mike Locksley expressed frustration over the calls made against his team, particularly the undefeated home losses this season.

Across the game, both teams exchanged leads multiple times in a contest filled with exciting plays and struggles. Nebraska’s receiver Nyziah Hunter had a notable performance, catching five passes for 125 yards and two touchdowns.

Next, Nebraska will face Minnesota on the road, while Maryland is set to take on UCLA. The outcome of Saturday’s game may strengthen Nebraska’s confidence as they continue their quest for a successful season.