Nebraska Faces Critical Test Against Maryland Amid Defensive Struggles

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — The Nebraska Cornhuskers (12-5, 2-4 Big Ten) face a pivotal road test against the Maryland Terrapins (13-5, 3-4 Big Ten) on Sunday, Jan. 19, 2025, at the Xfinity Center. The Huskers, riding a three-game losing streak, aim to revive their season after their 20-game home winning streak was snapped. Tip-off is set for 11:00 a.m. CT, with the game airing on the Big Ten Network.

Nebraska’s recent struggles have been highlighted by its porous 3-point defense. Over the past three games, opponents have combined to hit 48 threes, averaging 16.0 per game. Head coach Fred Hoiberg emphasized that the issue is not schematic but rather a lack of effort and consistency in perimeter defense. “We need to defend the perimeter with better effort and consistency,” Hoiberg said after the loss to Rutgers. Maryland, ranked fifth in the Big Ten in 3-point shooting at 35.9%, poses another significant challenge.

The Huskers rank 358th out of 364 Division I teams, with 49.8% of their opponents’ scoring coming from beyond the arc. Maryland’s offensive prowess is further bolstered by its strong rebounding, ranking fifth in the Big Ten with 37.3 rebounds per game. Big men Julian Reese (8.7 rebounds per game) and Derik Queen (8.1 rebounds per game) are among the conference’s top rebounders, with Reese leading the league in offensive rebounds (3.2 per game). Nebraska’s inability to secure defensive rebounds has been costly, as evidenced by the 19 second-chance points allowed against Rutgers.

Rutgers freshman Ace Bailey’s taunts during Nebraska’s recent loss have added fuel to the Huskers’ determination. “We want it more than them,” Bailey repeatedly yelled during the game. Senior forward Juwan Gary acknowledged the sting of those words, saying, “That hurt as a player. I know no team wants it more than my guys, for sure. But they proved it today.”

Maryland, coming off a heartbreaking 76-74 overtime loss to Northwestern, looks to bounce back at home. The Terrapins lead the all-time series against Nebraska 12-4. Nebraska’s performance in College Park will be a litmus test for its season, as the team seeks to regain its early-season form and avoid a fourth consecutive loss.