Nebraska Escapes Cincinnati 20-17 Behind Raiola, Hartzog’s Clutch Pick

Nebraska Holds Off Cincinnati With Late Interception in Tight Week 0 Thriller

KANSAS CITY — In a tense opener at Arrowhead Stadium, Nebraska came away with a 20-17 win over Cincinnati on Thursday night, preserving the victory with a dramatic interception by Malcolm Hartzog Jr. with just 34 seconds remaining.

Key Plays and Performers

• Dylan Raiola was efficient under pressure, completing 33 of 42 passes for 243 yards and two touchdowns, helping Nebraska control the clock and keep Cincinnati’s offense off balance.

• On the ground, Emmett Johnson carried the load, rushing 25 times for 108 yards.

• Nyziah Hunter and Dane Key made key contributions in the passing game with touchdown grabs.

• For Cincinnati, Brendan Sorsby struggled through the air (just 69 passing yards), but made up for it with 96 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns, keeping the Bearcats within striking distance.

Turning Point

The game shifted late in the first half after a costly turnover by Cincinnati near midfield. Instead of heading to halftime with a chance to keep the game close, the Bearcats found themselves trailing 13-3 — a momentum swing Nebraska capitalized on.

Though Cincinnati made a push in the second half, including a timely touchdown drive late in the fourth quarter, Nebraska managed to answer. But it was Hartzog’s crucial interception in the final minute that ultimately iced the game, preserving the Huskers’ win.