Thu Sep 12 09:50:59 UTC 2024: ## UNI Faces Tough Test Against Nebraska After Earning First Two Wins

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa – The University of Northern Iowa (UNI) Panthers are 2-0 for the first time since 2013, but their undefeated streak faces a serious challenge this Saturday as they head to Lincoln to take on a rising Nebraska Cornhusker program.

Head coach Mark Farley acknowledged the upcoming matchup will be the toughest test yet for the Panthers, who have defeated two non-scholarship Pioneer League teams to start the season. While pleased with the team’s resilience, Farley also stressed the need for improvement, particularly in discipline.

Despite a 17-10 win over St. Thomas last Saturday, the Panthers gave up big plays and missed scoring opportunities. Farley highlighted the need for better execution and mental focus, especially against a Nebraska offense known for its speed and explosiveness.

“We are not good yet, we are not even close,” Farley said. “We have grown. We are a lot better than we used to be, but not even close to what we could be.”

The defense, while currently ranked first in the Missouri Valley Football Conference, has shown vulnerabilities that need to be addressed. The performance of first-year starting quarterback Aidan Dunne also requires improvement, though Farley expressed confidence in his ability to lead the offense.

The upcoming game against Nebraska is a key opportunity for UNI to prove its mettle and demonstrate its potential against a strong FBS opponent.

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