Adam Carriker of @carrikerchronicles90 stops by SMQ to preview the Cincinnati Game.
Kansas City Showcase: Nebraska Meets Cincinnati in the Battle Sports Classic
The stage is set at Arrowhead Stadium this Thursday, August 28, when the Nebraska Cornhuskers and Cincinnati Bearcats kick off the 2025 season in the inaugural Battle Sports Kansas City Classic. It’s a neutral-site showdown in a packed venue more than 66,000 tickets sold (90% Nebraska) and a sea of scarlet Husker fans primed for a raucous night under the lights.
Nebraska enters the contest riding strong momentum. Under third‑year head coach Matt Rhule, the Cornhuskers are eager to build on a successful close to 2024 that included a Pinstripe Bowl victory. Their offense now coordinating under Dana Holgorsen, showcases rising star quarterback Dylan Raiola, whose poise and arm talent have been lauded throughout fall camp. Freshman wide receiver Carter Nelson, newly transitioned from tight end, adds big‑play potential on the perimeter.
But Nebraska’s defense isn’t to be overlooked. With early losses on the defensive line, Elijah Jeudy is stepping into a critical leadership role as he attempts to anchor the run defense and bring pressure up front. His presence could be key in slowing down Cincinnati’s attack.
Cincinnati, meanwhile, enters as a resilient mid‑tier Big 12 squad coming off a disappointing 5–7 season last year under coach Scott Satterfield
Bearcats are looking to surprise early but face an uphill battle against Nebraska’s balanced and improved roster.
Expect fireworks. ESPN’s FPI gives Nebraska a 66.2 %-win probability, signaling a clear but certainly competitive edge. Betting models echo that outlook, projecting a Huskers win in the 7–10-point range.
Both SMQ and Mr. Carriker, the Dean of Nebraska podcasters, are expecting a double-digit victory. SMQ is calling for a 28-14 victory. Mr. Carriker is going further and taking the over at 35-21 betting that offense will hit on all cylinders.
Beyond the analytics, this game matters, a sentiment echoed by Husker fans who ranked this opener, above even big rematches like Michigan and Iowa, as the most important of the season It’s more than a game, it’s a tone‑setter. Nebraska fans expect the Huskers to be 3-0 heading into the Michigan game.
Game details: Thursday, August 28 at 8 PM CT / 9 PM ET, broadcast nationally on ESPN from GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium
In sum: Nebraska brings explosive offense, a developing defense led by emerging leaders, and an energized fanbase. Cincinnati arrives battle-tested but with work to do. Expect an intense early-season showdown—Kansas City’s stadium should be electric.
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0:00 Intro
0:29 Guest Adam Carriker Joins
1:04 Coach Matt Rhule Interview Vibes
2:01 Breaking Down Nebraska Offensive Line
4:13 Concerns at Right Tackle
5:35 Adam on Family Life & Busy Schedule
5:44 Memories Playing at Arrowhead Stadium
6:33 Cincinnati Game Preview
9:37 Cincinnati Coaching & Satterfield Connection
9:40 Blackshirt Defense Outlook
13:18 Young Defensive Line Standouts
14:00 Dylan Raiola Expectations
15:13 Backup QB Battle: TJ Lateef vs Jalen Gromstad
17:06 What Raiola Must Do to Succeed
18:00 Importance of Nebraska Run Game
19:27 Running Back Room Breakdown
20:04 Wide Receiver Room Outlook
20:30 Adam on Running Back Depth
21:56 Special Teams & Kicking Battle
