Sat Nov 16 22:10:00 IST 2024: ## Husker Offense Needs to “Take the Layups” Against USC, Says Analyst
**Lincoln, NE** – With Nebraska set to face USC on Saturday, Husker analyst Matt McMaster has outlined three keys to victory for the Cornhuskers. McMaster’s analysis centers on quarterback Dylan Raiola’s performance, the defensive strategy against USC’s new starting quarterback, and the necessity of a strong secondary performance.
McMaster praises Raiola’s talent and leadership but emphasizes the need for a more balanced approach. While commending Raiola’s aggressiveness and downfield vision, he suggests the young quarterback should focus on taking shorter, more reliable gains to establish a rhythm before attempting long throws. He stresses that this is not just Raiola’s responsibility but also requires effective play-calling from offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen.
The analyst highlights the significant change in USC’s lineup with Jayden Maiava taking over as starting quarterback. Maiava, a transfer from UNLV, is relatively untested in a starting role and hasn’t started a game in almost a year. McMaster urges the Nebraska defense to capitalize on this by aggressively blitzing Maiava to disrupt his rhythm and exploit any rust. He stresses the importance of pressuring Maiava relentlessly for 60 minutes.
Finally, McMaster warns about USC’s pass-heavy offense. With the Trojans averaging nearly 300 passing yards per game, he emphasizes the crucial role of the Nebraska secondary in limiting big plays to talented receivers like Luke Zachariah Branch and Makai Lemon. He concludes that a strong defensive performance is essential, especially since the Nebraska offense hasn’t scored 30 points in a game since week 3. A defensive lapse could be decisive in a game where a bowl berth hinges on a Husker victory.
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