Where Phil Steele, other college football magazines predict Nebraska to finish this season

As the scorching summer sun beats down, a different kind of heat builds among college football fans: the anticipation of the upcoming season, fueled by the annual arrival of preseason magazines. For Nebraska faithful, these glossy publications aren't just a collection of statistics and rosters; they're a barometer, an early whisper of whether optimism is warranted or if another year of tempered expectations lies ahead. And at the forefront of this annual ritual is Phil Steele, whose encyclopedic knowledge and meticulous data analysis make his predictions a must-read for serious fans and casual observers alike.

Phil Steele's 2024 College Football Preview, a bible for many, offers a nuanced look at the Huskers' prospects. Known for his "Power Ratings" and detailed position-by-position breakdowns, Steele often highlights returning experience and coaching stability as key indicators. For Nebraska, the continuity under Head Coach Matt Rhule and Defensive Coordinator Tony White, coupled with an influx of talent and a full offseason to implement schemes, provides a foundation for his projections. While specific win totals can vary wildly across different magazine print runs, Steele's analysis frequently points to Nebraska as a team poised for a significant jump, often pegging them right on the cusp of bowl eligibility, or even exceeding it, contingent on improved offensive execution and a formidable defense continuing its upward trajectory. His detailed charts often show the Huskers with a favorable schedule balance early on, offering opportunities to build momentum before navigating the more arduous stretches of the Big Ten slate.

Beyond Steele's comprehensive deep dive, other prominent publications like Athlon Sports, Lindy's Sports, and Street & Smith's offer their own takes, often forming a consensus that paints a clearer picture for Big Red. While some might be more conservative, citing the incredibly competitive nature of the expanded Big Ten conference—now featuring powerhouses like Oregon, USC, and Washington—many foresee Nebraska making strides towards sustained success. Common threads among these predictions include a strong belief in the defense's ability to be a top-tier unit, led by a disruptive defensive front and an experienced secondary. The biggest variable, and thus the most debated topic across these previews, remains the offense, particularly the quarterback position and the consistency of the offensive line. Publications often highlight the potential of new offensive talent, whether through transfers or developing youth, as the key to unlocking the team's ceiling. The general sentiment is one of cautious optimism, acknowledging the foundation laid by Rhule's staff while recognizing the significant challenges of competing in an increasingly tough league.

For Nebraska fans seeking that pre-season confidence boost, these magazines provide it by validating the internal belief that progress is being made. They offer objective, albeit early, assessments that acknowledge the team's strengths and the areas where improvement is critical. However, it's crucial to remember that these are predictions based on spring practices, recruiting classes, and transfer portal additions – they are a snapshot, not a guarantee. The true narrative of Nebraska's season will unfold on the field, shaped by player development, injury luck, in-game adjustments, and the sheer grit required to compete week in and week out in the Big Ten. Yet, for now, picking up a preseason magazine and seeing national pundits project the Huskers closer to their potential can certainly fuel the excitement and quiet the lingering doubts, setting the stage for what promises to be a captivating autumn in Lincoln.