Chadron State volleyball is closing in on an RMAC playoff berth and has a road trip pod with Adams State and NM Highlands this weekend in Alamosa.  Coach Jennifer Stadler and student-athlete Mayson Fago sit in with Voice of the Eagles Dave Collins this week on the show!

<div><iframe title="CSC Sports Journal - 10/25/23" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=huqyh-14de5ba-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=c73a3a" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>Chadron State volleyball is closing in on an RMAC playoff berth and has a road trip pod with Adams State and NM Highlands this weekend in Alamosa. Coach Jennifer Stadler and student-athlete Mayson Fago sit in with Voice of the Eagles Dave Collins this week on the show!<figure>
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🔊 CSC Sports Journal - Jennifer Stadler & Mayson Fago - 10/25/23

Story by NU Athletic Communications

Lincoln&nbsp;- In a low-scoring Big Ten slugfest dominated by the defenses, Heinrich Haarberg's 44-yard touchdown strike to freshman wide receiver Malachi Coleman on Nebraska's first offensive play of the fourth quarter provided the winning margin in a 17-9 Husker victory over Northwestern on Saturday.

Playing in front of 86,769 fans in the 100th anniversary celebration of Memorial Stadium, Nebraska improved to 4-3 and 2-2 in the Big Ten, while dropping Northwestern to 3-4 and 1-3 in the conference.

Nebraska won despite managing just 248 total yards and committing a pair of first-quarter turnovers. The Huskers rushed for 163 yards on 39 carries and went just 8-for-17 passing for 85 yards.&nbsp;

Northwestern moved for 257 total yards, including 176 yards on 12-of-23 passing with one interception, while managing just 81 rushing yards on 39 carries. The Cats also produced just nine first downs in the game, compared to 17 for the Huskers.

The Blackshirts held the Wildcats to minus-5 rushing yards on 18 second-half carries by recording 13 tackles for loss - Nebraska's most since producing 13 TFL against Illinois in 2019.

Nebraska also played cleaner football than Northwestern, committing just three penalties for 30 yards, while the normally disciplined Cats were flagged eight times for 75 yards.&nbsp;

The Huskers trailed early after Haarberg through an interception on Nebraska's first play from scrimmage to open the game. Devin Turner intercepted the pass to set the Wildcats up with a short field at the Husker 44.

The Blackshirts rose to the challenge and pushed Northwestern back across midfield, but the first seven minutes of the game was played on Nebraska's side of the field.&nbsp;

The Wildcats finally cashed in when Haarberg was intercepted by Rod Heard, who returned it 10 yards to the Nebraska 13. The Blackshirts rose up again, shoving Northwestern back 14 yards to force a 45-yard field goal attempt by Jack Olsen, who connected with the wind at his back to give the Cats a 3-0 lead with 7:18 left in the first quarter.

Haarberg and the Huskers then found an answer by marching 35 yards in nine plays capped by Tristan Alvano's 47-yard field goal against the wind to tie the score at 3-3 with 3:11 left in the period.

Midway through the second quarter, Northwestern put together its only sustained drive of the first half, covering 73 yards in 10 plays, capped by Olsen's 37-yard field goal to regain a three-point lead at 6-3 with 5:48 remaining in the half.

Haarberg and the Huskers rallied for an answer again with a 10-play drive of their own that covered 77 yards and took 5:18. Freshman running back Emmett Johnson carried four times on the drive for 25 yards, while Haarberg capped a drive that featured three of his own runs for a total of 25 yards, with a three-yard touchdown plunge to put the Big Red on top for the first time at 10-6 with 23 seconds left in the half.

Johnson finished the day with a game-high 73 rushing yards on 12 carries, while Haarberg added 72 yards on 16 carries.

Northwestern tried to find an answer in short order, but Tommi Hill closed a strong defensive performance by the Blackshirts with his second interception of the season.

The defenses continued to dominate in a scoreless third quarter, before the Husker offense opened the fourth quarter with a short field. On Nebraska's first play from scrimmage in the period, Haarberg hit Coleman with the long touchdown strike in the middle of the end zone to give the Huskers a 17-6 lead.

Northwestern refused to quit, answering with a 66-yard pass from Brendan Sullivan to Bryce Kirtz. Malcolm Hartzog made a touchdown-saving tackle at the Northwestern 9, and the Blackshirts responded by keeping the Cats out of the end zone again. Olsen salvaged a 25-yard field goal to pull Northwestern within 17-9 with 11:09 left.

The Blackshirts did the rest, putting the exclamation point on the victory with a massive 16-yard sack by Jimari Butler and Ty Robinson at the Northwestern 14.

Defensive tackle Nash Hutmacher led a hard-hitting, aggressive Blackshirt defense with seven tackles, including 2.5 sacks. Isaac Gifford added seven stops of his own, including a highlight reel tackle on the edge through a pair of blockers on a Northwestern screen pass.

Princewill Umanmielen also secured seven tackles, including a pair for losses, while Butler and Luke Reimer each notched six tackles.

Nebraska returns to Memorial Stadium next Saturday to play host to Purdue. Kick-off with the Boilermakers in Lincoln is set for 2:30 p.m. with live television coverage on FS1.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsLincoln&nbsp;- In a low-scoring Big Ten slugfest dominated by the defenses, Heinrich Haarberg's 44-yard touchdown strike to freshman wide receiver Malachi Coleman on Nebraska's first offensive play of the fourth quarter provided the winning margin in a 17-9 Husker victory over Northwestern on Saturday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697983162710.jpeg" alt="Photo by Nebraska Athletic Department Communications" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Nebraska Athletic Department Communications</figcaption>
 </figure>Playing in front of 86,769 fans in the 100th anniversary celebration of Memorial Stadium, Nebraska improved to 4-3 and 2-2 in the Big Ten, while dropping Northwestern to 3-4 and 1-3 in the conference.Nebraska won despite managing just 248 total yards and committing a pair of first-quarter turnovers. The Huskers rushed for 163 yards on 39 carries and went just 8-for-17 passing for 85 yards.&nbsp;Northwestern moved for 257 total yards, including 176 yards on 12-of-23 passing with one interception, while managing just 81 rushing yards on 39 carries. The Cats also produced just nine first downs in the game, compared to 17 for the Huskers.The Blackshirts held the Wildcats to minus-5 rushing yards on 18 second-half carries by recording 13 tackles for loss - Nebraska's most since producing 13 TFL against Illinois in 2019.Nebraska also played cleaner football than Northwestern, committing just three penalties for 30 yards, while the normally disciplined Cats were flagged eight times for 75 yards.&nbsp;The Huskers trailed early after Haarberg through an interception on Nebraska's first play from scrimmage to open the game. Devin Turner intercepted the pass to set the Wildcats up with a short field at the Husker 44.The Blackshirts rose to the challenge and pushed Northwestern back across midfield, but the first seven minutes of the game was played on Nebraska's side of the field.&nbsp;The Wildcats finally cashed in when Haarberg was intercepted by Rod Heard, who returned it 10 yards to the Nebraska 13. The Blackshirts rose up again, shoving Northwestern back 14 yards to force a 45-yard field goal attempt by Jack Olsen, who connected with the wind at his back to give the Cats a 3-0 lead with 7:18 left in the first quarter.Haarberg and the Huskers then found an answer by marching 35 yards in nine plays capped by Tristan Alvano's 47-yard field goal against the wind to tie the score at 3-3 with 3:11 left in the period.Midway through the second quarter, Northwestern put together its only sustained drive of the first half, covering 73 yards in 10 plays, capped by Olsen's 37-yard field goal to regain a three-point lead at 6-3 with 5:48 remaining in the half.Haarberg and the Huskers rallied for an answer again with a 10-play drive of their own that covered 77 yards and took 5:18. Freshman running back Emmett Johnson carried four times on the drive for 25 yards, while Haarberg capped a drive that featured three of his own runs for a total of 25 yards, with a three-yard touchdown plunge to put the Big Red on top for the first time at 10-6 with 23 seconds left in the half.Johnson finished the day with a game-high 73 rushing yards on 12 carries, while Haarberg added 72 yards on 16 carries.Northwestern tried to find an answer in short order, but Tommi Hill closed a strong defensive performance by the Blackshirts with his second interception of the season.The defenses continued to dominate in a scoreless third quarter, before the Husker offense opened the fourth quarter with a short field. On Nebraska's first play from scrimmage in the period, Haarberg hit Coleman with the long touchdown strike in the middle of the end zone to give the Huskers a 17-6 lead.Northwestern refused to quit, answering with a 66-yard pass from Brendan Sullivan to Bryce Kirtz. Malcolm Hartzog made a touchdown-saving tackle at the Northwestern 9, and the Blackshirts responded by keeping the Cats out of the end zone again. Olsen salvaged a 25-yard field goal to pull Northwestern within 17-9 with 11:09 left.The Blackshirts did the rest, putting the exclamation point on the victory with a massive 16-yard sack by Jimari Butler and Ty Robinson at the Northwestern 14.Defensive tackle Nash Hutmacher led a hard-hitting, aggressive Blackshirt defense with seven tackles, including 2.5 sacks. Isaac Gifford added seven stops of his own, including a highlight reel tackle on the edge through a pair of blockers on a Northwestern screen pass.Princewill Umanmielen also secured seven tackles, including a pair for losses, while Butler and Luke Reimer each notched six tackles.Nebraska returns to Memorial Stadium next Saturday to play host to Purdue. Kick-off with the Boilermakers in Lincoln is set for 2:30 p.m. with live television coverage on FS1.

Huskers shut down Wildcats 17-9 

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post

The Alliance Bulldogs had Western Conference rivals Gering on the ropes in the Class B Semifinals on Tuesday night in Scottsbluff, with Alliance leading 2-1 in sets and cruising early in the 4th set, but Gering stormed back to win the final two sets to win 3-2.&nbsp;

Gering started off fast by winning the first set 25-18, but Alliance battled back to win the 2nd 25-21 and the third 25-18 to get momentum in the match.

Alliance seemed in control early in the 4th before Gering went on a run to win the set 25-18. The momentum carried over to the 5th for Gering as they took the set 15-8 to win the match.

Jaelynne Clarke led all players with 26 kills unofficially for Alliance, Jacy Cochran had a team high 17 kills for Gering.

Alliance's record falls to 15-17 as they await to know if they qualified for a District Final on Saturday, or if their season is over. If Alliance sneaks in, they will more than likely play in the eastern part of the state in the Lincoln and Omaha area.

Gering played Scottsbluff in the Sub-District final and lost 3-0, they are 20-10 on the season entering the District Final.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThe Alliance Bulldogs had Western Conference rivals Gering on the ropes in the Class B Semifinals on Tuesday night in Scottsbluff, with Alliance leading 2-1 in sets and cruising early in the 4th set, but Gering stormed back to win the final two sets to win 3-2.&nbsp;Gering started off fast by winning the first set 25-18, but Alliance battled back to win the 2nd 25-21 and the third 25-18 to get momentum in the match.Alliance seemed in control early in the 4th before Gering went on a run to win the set 25-18. The momentum carried over to the 5th for Gering as they took the set 15-8 to win the match.Jaelynne Clarke led all players with 26 kills unofficially for Alliance, Jacy Cochran had a team high 17 kills for Gering.Alliance's record falls to 15-17 as they await to know if they qualified for a District Final on Saturday, or if their season is over. If Alliance sneaks in, they will more than likely play in the eastern part of the state in the Lincoln and Omaha area.Gering played Scottsbluff in the Sub-District final and lost 3-0, they are 20-10 on the season entering the District Final.

HS Volleyball: Alliance falls short in five set battle to Gering

By: Dave Collins Sports Director Updated: Tuesday, 10/24 9:28 PM Bracket times, locations and scores will be updated as they are released/matches played

🏐 Nebraska High School Volleyball Sub-District Playoff Brackets

B-8 at Scottsbluff Tuesday, 10/24 Gering def. Alliance, 25-18, 21-25, 18-25, 25-17, 15-8 (3-2) Finals: Scottsbluff def. Gering, 25-18, 25-23, 28-26 (3-0)

C1-12 at Bridgeport Monday, 10/23 Gordon-Rushville def. Mitchell, 27-25, 18-25, 25-13, 22-25, 15-11 (3-2) Chadron def. Sidney, 25-23, 25-18, 19-25, 25-13 (3-1) Gordon-Rushville def. Bridgeport, 26-24, 25-17, 19-25, 24-26, 16-14 (3-2) Tuesday, 10/24 Finals:&nbsp;Chadron def. Gordon-Rushville, 25-18, 25-19, 25-10 (3-0)

C2-12 at Bayard Monday, 10/23 Bayard def. Hemingford, 25-14, 25-20, 25-12 (3-0) Perkins County def. Morrill, 25-15, 25-12, 22-25, 25-17 (3-1) Tuesday, 10/24 Finals:&nbsp;Bayard def. Perkins County, 25-22, 26-24, 25-20 (3-0)

D1-12 at Paxton Monday, 10/23 Paxton def. Kimball, 25-4, 25-14, 25-8 (3-0) Sutherland def. South Platte, 25-17, 25-20, 27-25 (3-0) Tuesday, 10/24 Finals:&nbsp;Paxton def. Sutherland, 25-16, 25-10, 25-10 (3-0)

D2-12 at Hay Springs Monday, 10/23 Hay Springs def. Crawford, 25-21, 25-22, 25-16 Cody-Kilgore def. Sioux County, 25-21, 25-17, 25-27, 25-21 (3-1) Tuesday, 10/24 Finals:&nbsp;Hay Springs def. Cody-Kilgore, 25-21, 25-19, 26-24 (3-0)

D2-11 at Leyton High School Monday, 10/23 Creek Valley def. Banner County, 25-15, 25-7, 25-21 (3-0) Potter-Dix def. Minatare, 25-19, 25-12, 25-19 (3-0) Leyton def. Creek Valley, 25-7, 25-8, 25-11 (3-0) Tuesday, 10/24 Finals:&nbsp;Leyton def. Potter-Dix, 25-12, 25-15, 25-15 (3-0)

D2-10 at Thedford Monday, 10/23 Mullen def. Hyannis, 23-25, 25-18, 18-25, 25-11, 15-10 (3-2) Arthur County def. Garden County, 27-29, 18-25, 25-17, 25-22, 15-13 (3-2) Sandhills/Thedford def. Mullen, 25-12, 25-19, 25-15 (3-0) Tuesday, 10/24 Finals:&nbsp;Sandhills/Thedford def. Arthur County, 25-15, 22-25, 25-15, 25-18 (3-1)

<figure>
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 </figure>By: Dave Collins Sports Director Updated: Tuesday, 10/24 9:28 PM Bracket times, locations and scores will be updated as they are released/matches played🏐 Nebraska High School Volleyball Sub-District Playoff BracketsB-8 at Scottsbluff Tuesday, 10/24 Gering def. Alliance, 25-18, 21-25, 18-25, 25-17, 15-8 (3-2) Finals: Scottsbluff def. Gering, 25-18, 25-23, 28-26 (3-0)C1-12 at Bridgeport Monday, 10/23 Gordon-Rushville def. Mitchell, 27-25, 18-25, 25-13, 22-25, 15-11 (3-2) Chadron def. Sidney, 25-23, 25-18, 19-25, 25-13 (3-1) Gordon-Rushville def. Bridgeport, 26-24, 25-17, 19-25, 24-26, 16-14 (3-2) Tuesday, 10/24 Finals:&nbsp;Chadron def. Gordon-Rushville, 25-18, 25-19, 25-10 (3-0)C2-12 at Bayard Monday, 10/23 Bayard def. Hemingford, 25-14, 25-20, 25-12 (3-0) Perkins County def. Morrill, 25-15, 25-12, 22-25, 25-17 (3-1) Tuesday, 10/24 Finals:&nbsp;Bayard def. Perkins County, 25-22, 26-24, 25-20 (3-0)D1-12 at Paxton Monday, 10/23 Paxton def. Kimball, 25-4, 25-14, 25-8 (3-0) Sutherland def. South Platte, 25-17, 25-20, 27-25 (3-0) Tuesday, 10/24 Finals:&nbsp;Paxton def. Sutherland, 25-16, 25-10, 25-10 (3-0)D2-12 at Hay Springs Monday, 10/23 Hay Springs def. Crawford, 25-21, 25-22, 25-16 Cody-Kilgore def. Sioux County, 25-21, 25-17, 25-27, 25-21 (3-1) Tuesday, 10/24 Finals:&nbsp;Hay Springs def. Cody-Kilgore, 25-21, 25-19, 26-24 (3-0)D2-11 at Leyton High School Monday, 10/23 Creek Valley def. Banner County, 25-15, 25-7, 25-21 (3-0) Potter-Dix def. Minatare, 25-19, 25-12, 25-19 (3-0) Leyton def. Creek Valley, 25-7, 25-8, 25-11 (3-0) Tuesday, 10/24 Finals:&nbsp;Leyton def. Potter-Dix, 25-12, 25-15, 25-15 (3-0)D2-10 at Thedford Monday, 10/23 Mullen def. Hyannis, 23-25, 25-18, 18-25, 25-11, 15-10 (3-2) Arthur County def. Garden County, 27-29, 18-25, 25-17, 25-22, 15-13 (3-2) Sandhills/Thedford def. Mullen, 25-12, 25-19, 25-15 (3-0) Tuesday, 10/24 Finals:&nbsp;Sandhills/Thedford def. Arthur County, 25-15, 22-25, 25-15, 25-18 (3-1)<figure>
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🏐 TUESDAY SCOREBOARD: Nebraska High School Volleyball Sub-District Playoff Brackets

CSC Football Head Coach Jay Long and Voice of the Eagles Dave Collins breakdown the Pueblo game and how the team is preparing for it's trip to New Mexico Highlands this week.

<div><iframe title="Jay Long Show - 10/24/23" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=u6hhv-14dc9df-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=c73a3a" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>CSC Football Head Coach Jay Long and Voice of the Eagles Dave Collins breakdown the Pueblo game and how the team is preparing for it's trip to New Mexico Highlands this week.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666116284028.jpeg" alt="" />
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🔊 PODCAST: Jay Long Show - 10/24/23

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska more than doubled its number of Big Ten wins last season to mark the biggest improvement in Fred Hoiberg's four years coaching the Cornhuskers. He expects the ascent to continue with a roster that ranks as the conference's oldest.

The Huskers went 16-16 for their first non-losing season since 2018-19 despite four rotation players missing time because of injuries. They were 12th in the Big Ten at 9-11 after they won six of their final eight regular-season games.

“Had we stayed healthy last year, I think we would have had a great chance to be an NCAA Tournament team,” Hoiberg said. “We had that grit, defensive mindset and identity, and we wanted to get that same group of guys in here this year. So far that's what I've seen."

The Huskers' roster includes eight players who are entering their fourth or fifth seasons as collegians and appeared in at least 62 games apiece. Three have at least 79 career starts each, and four have started at least 25.

“We've got more depth than any team we’ve had since we’ve been at Nebraska,” Hoiberg said, "and we have the size and verstaility to play a lot of combinations. We can play small, we can play big, we can play gigantic if we want to. When you look at the 3-point shooting of guys in our rotation, the majority are at 35% or better.

“When you have a team where you know what you're going to get, it makes your job easier and more enjoyable.”

Hoiberg's biggest offseason win came in May when 3-point shooting star Keisei Tominaga decided to return to Nebraska rather than enter the NBA draft. Tominaga averaged 13.1 points per game for the season and 20.3 as the Huskers won six of their last nine games. His 40.9% shooting from distance after he became a starter Jan. 18 was highest in the Big Ten among players who attempted at least six per game.

Over the summer he helped&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/basketball-world-cup-olympics-paris-1da4d6721440964b0aac1ea1464c3970">lead his native Japan to a spot in the 2024 Olympics</a>&nbsp;with his performance in the FIBA World Cup. He was among just five college players in the World Cup and the only one to average more than 10 points per game.

Juwan Gary started the Huskers' first 17 games and averaged 9.5 points, 6.5 rebounds and a team-high 1.4 steals per game before he sustained a season-ending injury in January.

C.J. Wilcher has played in every game the past two seasons. He had 24 starts last season and scored in double figures 10 times.

Jamarques Lawrence became a starter for the final 12 games and averaged 9.0 points per game in that stretch while shooting nearly 40 percent on 3s.

Derrick Walker, the leading scorer and rebounder last season, is the biggest departure. Sam Griesel and Emmanuel Bandoumel also were starters who graduated. Reserves Wilhelm Breidenbach (Washington), Denim Dawson (Tennessee State) and Oleg Kojenets (Wyoming) left via the transfer portal.

The Huskers added five transfers in guards Brice Williams (Charlotte), Ahron Ulis (Iowa) and Jarron Coleman (Ball State) and forwards Rienk Mast (Bradley) and Josiah Allick (New Mexico).

Williams averaged a team-high 13.8 points and 5.3 rebounds per game and shot 40% on 3s and was MVP of the College Basketball Invitational. Ulis was Iowa's starting point guard last season, and Coleman averaged 14.6 points per game last season and led the Cardinals in assists three of his four years.

Mast was an All-Missouri Valley Conference first-team pick last season after leading Bradley with 13.8 points and 8.0 rebounds per game and nine double-doubles. Allick was second in the Mountain West last season with 7.3 rebounds per game.

Ulis was among the Iowa athletes found to have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iowa-sports-wagering-hawkeyes-cyclones-dc789365fa46dea091e2278b524fbba5">engaged in underage sports betting</a>&nbsp;in violation of state law and NCAA rules. He has been practicing, but his eligibility remains in question.

There are only two true freshmen on the roster, guard Eli Rice from IMG Academy by way of Gallatin, Tennessee, and forward Matar Diop from Keystone Athletic Academy (Pennsylvania) by way of Senegal.

<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/mens-basketball/schedule">The Huskers open at home</a>&nbsp;against Lindenwood on Nov. 6. They play Oregon State in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, on Nov. 18. Their toughest nonconference game is Dec. 3 against eighth-ranked Creighton in Lincoln. Big Ten play starts Dec. 6 at Minnesota.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698166235195.jpeg" alt="FILE - Nebraska's Keisei Tominaga (30), of Japan, shoots during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game against Northwestern on Jan. 25, 2023, in Lincoln, Neb. Nebraska head coach Fred Hoiberg's biggest offseason win came in May when 3-point shooting star Keisei Tominaga decided to return to Nebraska rather than enter the NBA draft. (AP Photo/Rebecca S. Gratz, File)" />
 <figcaption>FILE - Nebraska's Keisei Tominaga (30), of Japan, shoots during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game against Northwestern on Jan. 25, 2023, in Lincoln, Neb. Nebraska head coach Fred Hoiberg's biggest offseason win came in May when 3-point shooting star Keisei Tominaga decided to return to Nebraska rather than enter the NBA draft. (AP Photo/Rebecca S. Gratz, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska more than doubled its number of Big Ten wins last season to mark the biggest improvement in Fred Hoiberg's four years coaching the Cornhuskers. He expects the ascent to continue with a roster that ranks as the conference's oldest.The Huskers went 16-16 for their first non-losing season since 2018-19 despite four rotation players missing time because of injuries. They were 12th in the Big Ten at 9-11 after they won six of their final eight regular-season games.“Had we stayed healthy last year, I think we would have had a great chance to be an NCAA Tournament team,” Hoiberg said. “We had that grit, defensive mindset and identity, and we wanted to get that same group of guys in here this year. So far that's what I've seen."The Huskers' roster includes eight players who are entering their fourth or fifth seasons as collegians and appeared in at least 62 games apiece. Three have at least 79 career starts each, and four have started at least 25.“We've got more depth than any team we’ve had since we’ve been at Nebraska,” Hoiberg said, "and we have the size and verstaility to play a lot of combinations. We can play small, we can play big, we can play gigantic if we want to. When you look at the 3-point shooting of guys in our rotation, the majority are at 35% or better.“When you have a team where you know what you're going to get, it makes your job easier and more enjoyable.”WHO’S BACKHoiberg's biggest offseason win came in May when 3-point shooting star Keisei Tominaga decided to return to Nebraska rather than enter the NBA draft. Tominaga averaged 13.1 points per game for the season and 20.3 as the Huskers won six of their last nine games. His 40.9% shooting from distance after he became a starter Jan. 18 was highest in the Big Ten among players who attempted at least six per game.Over the summer he helped&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/basketball-world-cup-olympics-paris-1da4d6721440964b0aac1ea1464c3970">lead his native Japan to a spot in the 2024 Olympics</a>&nbsp;with his performance in the FIBA World Cup. He was among just five college players in the World Cup and the only one to average more than 10 points per game.Juwan Gary started the Huskers' first 17 games and averaged 9.5 points, 6.5 rebounds and a team-high 1.4 steals per game before he sustained a season-ending injury in January.C.J. Wilcher has played in every game the past two seasons. He had 24 starts last season and scored in double figures 10 times.Jamarques Lawrence became a starter for the final 12 games and averaged 9.0 points per game in that stretch while shooting nearly 40 percent on 3s.WHO'S GONEDerrick Walker, the leading scorer and rebounder last season, is the biggest departure. Sam Griesel and Emmanuel Bandoumel also were starters who graduated. Reserves Wilhelm Breidenbach (Washington), Denim Dawson (Tennessee State) and Oleg Kojenets (Wyoming) left via the transfer portal.WHO’S NEWThe Huskers added five transfers in guards Brice Williams (Charlotte), Ahron Ulis (Iowa) and Jarron Coleman (Ball State) and forwards Rienk Mast (Bradley) and Josiah Allick (New Mexico).Williams averaged a team-high 13.8 points and 5.3 rebounds per game and shot 40% on 3s and was MVP of the College Basketball Invitational. Ulis was Iowa's starting point guard last season, and Coleman averaged 14.6 points per game last season and led the Cardinals in assists three of his four years.Mast was an All-Missouri Valley Conference first-team pick last season after leading Bradley with 13.8 points and 8.0 rebounds per game and nine double-doubles. Allick was second in the Mountain West last season with 7.3 rebounds per game.Ulis was among the Iowa athletes found to have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iowa-sports-wagering-hawkeyes-cyclones-dc789365fa46dea091e2278b524fbba5">engaged in underage sports betting</a>&nbsp;in violation of state law and NCAA rules. He has been practicing, but his eligibility remains in question.There are only two true freshmen on the roster, guard Eli Rice from IMG Academy by way of Gallatin, Tennessee, and forward Matar Diop from Keystone Athletic Academy (Pennsylvania) by way of Senegal.LOOKING AHEAD<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/mens-basketball/schedule">The Huskers open at home</a>&nbsp;against Lindenwood on Nov. 6. They play Oregon State in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, on Nov. 18. Their toughest nonconference game is Dec. 3 against eighth-ranked Creighton in Lincoln. Big Ten play starts Dec. 6 at Minnesota.

Hoiberg hopes Tominaga's return and addition of veteran players allow Huskers to continue their rise

Alliance comes into the postseason tonight (Tuesday) with a 15-16 record as they look to clinch a spot in the District Final as they face 19-9 Gering at 4 pm. Alliance is currently ranked 13th in the RPI, and has played Gering six times this season, winning the last two meetings. Alliance Head Coach Manda Clarke says that both teams are evenly matched coming in.&nbsp;

"It could go either way, I feel like it's whoever shows up to play and minimizes their errors and plays aggressively will win the match."

Gering is led by Alex Gonzalez Orozco, one of the top liberos in the state who is 9th in Class B in digs. Freshman Jacy Cochran and Jaxie John are a force offensively, with Cochran 9th in Class B and John 13th.

Alliance will look to the leadership and fire power of all-time great Jaelynne Clarke, who enters tonight match 2nd in Class B in kills with 423 and is also 3rd in the state with digs with 510. Haylie Winter looks to provide leadership in the back row defensively from the libero position, while Kinley Pfeiffer aims to get the offense going from the setter position.

If the Bulldogs beat Gering, they will then play Scottsbluff at approximately 6 pm. Pregame coverage of Alliance volleyball begins at 3:45 with first serve at 4, if the Alliance wins KCOW will have that match as well. Tune in to KCOW at 92.5 and 1400 am and online at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://kcowradio.com/">KCOW – THE HOME OF JASON WENTWORTH IN THE MORNING (kcowradio.com)</a>

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostAlliance comes into the postseason tonight (Tuesday) with a 15-16 record as they look to clinch a spot in the District Final as they face 19-9 Gering at 4 pm. Alliance is currently ranked 13th in the RPI, and has played Gering six times this season, winning the last two meetings. Alliance Head Coach Manda Clarke says that both teams are evenly matched coming in.&nbsp;"It could go either way, I feel like it's whoever shows up to play and minimizes their errors and plays aggressively will win the match."Gering is led by Alex Gonzalez Orozco, one of the top liberos in the state who is 9th in Class B in digs. Freshman Jacy Cochran and Jaxie John are a force offensively, with Cochran 9th in Class B and John 13th.Alliance will look to the leadership and fire power of all-time great Jaelynne Clarke, who enters tonight match 2nd in Class B in kills with 423 and is also 3rd in the state with digs with 510. Haylie Winter looks to provide leadership in the back row defensively from the libero position, while Kinley Pfeiffer aims to get the offense going from the setter position.If the Bulldogs beat Gering, they will then play Scottsbluff at approximately 6 pm. Pregame coverage of Alliance volleyball begins at 3:45 with first serve at 4, if the Alliance wins KCOW will have that match as well. Tune in to KCOW at 92.5 and 1400 am and online at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://kcowradio.com/">KCOW – THE HOME OF JASON WENTWORTH IN THE MORNING (kcowradio.com)</a>

HS Volleyball: Alliance faces familiar foe in Gering in Sub-Districts

DENVER (AP) — The end of Denver's dubious streak of blown halftime leads and the Broncos' first home victory under coach Sean Payton both came from the most unexpected of sources.

Backup safety P.J. Locke saved the Broncos from another second-half meltdown, intercepting Jordan Love's deep pass in the closing minutes to preserve a 19-17 win over the Green Bay Packers on Sunday.

Locke — subbing for safety Kareem Jackson, who was ejected for the second time this season following an illegal high hit earlier in the fourth quarter on tight end Luke Musgrave — picked off the throw intended for Samori Toure just after the two-minute warning.

“I saw the ball in their air, I was like, ‘It’s mine,'" the fourth-year pro out of Texas said of his first career interception, which came in his 50th NFL game, all as a reserve.

On the play,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MileHighReport/status/1716233342226399386?s=20">running back A.J. Dillon was wide open</a>&nbsp;for what would have been a big gain underneath, but Love was looking to go deep on third-and-20 from midfield.

The Broncos (2-5) then ran out the clock with Russell Wilson launching a deep heave on fourth-and-9 from his own 26 after taking the shotgun snap with 6 seconds remaining and the Packers (2-4) out of timeouts.

That gave Payton his first win at home in four tries and snapped the Broncos' streak of losing 10 consecutive games in which they'd taken a lead into halftime.

Payton wasn't a celebratory mood, saying, “We're never happy. You know, we work hard, we want it. ... I'm happy we won, I am. I think I was happier before I came in here” to the postgame news conference.

Payton said he's hopeful of much more meaningful milestones, and he bristled when asked about Denver finally making a halftime lead hold up.

"My team hadn't blown 10 straight," Payton said. “So, let's start by saying, ‘The Denver Broncos historically ...’"

When the reporter did just that, Payton cut him off: “Yeah, I don't pay attention to that.”

Three of those blown halftime leads came on Payton's watch, and the Broncos frittered away a 9-0 advantage at the midpoint Sunday before Wil Lutz's fourth field goal, from 52 yards out, with 3:50 remaining put Denver back in front for good.

The Packers quickly approached field-goal range for rookie kicker Anders Carlson, but after A.J. Dillon's 29-yard catch-and-run, things went sideways for Green Bay. Love was facing third-and-20 from his own 46 when his deep pass was picked off.

The Packers took a 17-16 lead on Love's 4-yard touchdown pass to Jayden Reed midway through the fourth quarter that went off Romeo Doubs' hands.

Doubs had pulled the Packers within 16-10 in the third quarter on a 16-yard touchdown catch that both he and cornerback Patrick Surtain II corralled as they tumbled to the ground.

On the broadcast, CBS rules expert Gene Steratore said he believed&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/1716221608929669400?s=20">the touchdown should have been ruled an interception</a>&nbsp;because Surtain had two feet down before Doubs did. Therefore, Steratore argued, Surtain had completed the catch before Doubs had done so.

“That makes me feel better,” Surtain said, “but at the end of the day it was still a touchdown.”

Payton concurred, saying, “I was surprised” it wasn't ruled an interception on the field or via the NFL's standard review of all scoring plays. “I think we're going to see that was something that should have been called the other way,” Payton said.

Refreee Alex Kemp, however, explained to a pool reporter, “We ruled on the field that the Green Bay receiver controlled the ball while airborne and came to the ground and never lost control of the ball and therefore, by rule, it is a touchdown.”

Kemp said simultaneous possession wasn't ruled on the field but even if it had been, the play still would have resulted in a touchdown.

NFL Senior Vice President of Officiating Walt Anderson said the TD call was confirmed at league headquarters in New York.

“And since the ruling on the field was a touchdown, we reviewed the play for the elements of a catch, which were control and maintaining control when he went to the ground, and then the receiver kept control of the ball,” Anderson said. "There were no views that showed that the receiver ever lost control of the ball from the time he initially possessed it until he completed the catch process on the ground.”

Locke's interception rendered it a moot point as far as the outcome was concerned.

Wilson rebounded from his worst game as a Bronco a week earlier to throw for 195 yards on 20-of-29 passing with one touchdown, a 18-yarder to Courtland Sutton that gave Denver a 16-3 lead.

Jackson, who’s been fined four times already for illegal hits and drew an ejection against Washington in Week 2, was DQ’d after hitting Musgrave in the head after his 18-yard catch along the Packers sideline early in the fourth quarter.

“I think one of the challenges for Kareem is he's got some priors,” Payton said. “So, you know, when you get pulled over and you've had four or five speeding violations, you're going to spend a little more time on the side of the road.”

Aaron Jones returned from a pulled hamstring and gained 58 yards on 11 touches, not nearly enough to kick-start Green Bay's stagnant offense.

During their last four games, the Packers have been outscored a combined 63-6 in the first half.

“We just lost to Denver,” cornerback Rasul Douglas said, his voice dripping with disgust. “Not saying they're terrible, but come on, we're supposed to win, man."

Four Packers were injured in the second quarter: DL Devonte Wyatt (knee), S Darnell Savage (calf), CB Eric Stokes (hamstring) and WR Jayden Reed (shin). Musgrave (ankle) left after the illegal hit by Jackson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698082044048.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DENVER (AP) — The end of Denver's dubious streak of blown halftime leads and the Broncos' first home victory under coach Sean Payton both came from the most unexpected of sources.Backup safety P.J. Locke saved the Broncos from another second-half meltdown, intercepting Jordan Love's deep pass in the closing minutes to preserve a 19-17 win over the Green Bay Packers on Sunday.Locke — subbing for safety Kareem Jackson, who was ejected for the second time this season following an illegal high hit earlier in the fourth quarter on tight end Luke Musgrave — picked off the throw intended for Samori Toure just after the two-minute warning.“I saw the ball in their air, I was like, ‘It’s mine,'" the fourth-year pro out of Texas said of his first career interception, which came in his 50th NFL game, all as a reserve.On the play,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MileHighReport/status/1716233342226399386?s=20">running back A.J. Dillon was wide open</a>&nbsp;for what would have been a big gain underneath, but Love was looking to go deep on third-and-20 from midfield.The Broncos (2-5) then ran out the clock with Russell Wilson launching a deep heave on fourth-and-9 from his own 26 after taking the shotgun snap with 6 seconds remaining and the Packers (2-4) out of timeouts.That gave Payton his first win at home in four tries and snapped the Broncos' streak of losing 10 consecutive games in which they'd taken a lead into halftime.Payton wasn't a celebratory mood, saying, “We're never happy. You know, we work hard, we want it. ... I'm happy we won, I am. I think I was happier before I came in here” to the postgame news conference.Payton said he's hopeful of much more meaningful milestones, and he bristled when asked about Denver finally making a halftime lead hold up."My team hadn't blown 10 straight," Payton said. “So, let's start by saying, ‘The Denver Broncos historically ...’"When the reporter did just that, Payton cut him off: “Yeah, I don't pay attention to that.”Three of those blown halftime leads came on Payton's watch, and the Broncos frittered away a 9-0 advantage at the midpoint Sunday before Wil Lutz's fourth field goal, from 52 yards out, with 3:50 remaining put Denver back in front for good.The Packers quickly approached field-goal range for rookie kicker Anders Carlson, but after A.J. Dillon's 29-yard catch-and-run, things went sideways for Green Bay. Love was facing third-and-20 from his own 46 when his deep pass was picked off.The Packers took a 17-16 lead on Love's 4-yard touchdown pass to Jayden Reed midway through the fourth quarter that went off Romeo Doubs' hands.Doubs had pulled the Packers within 16-10 in the third quarter on a 16-yard touchdown catch that both he and cornerback Patrick Surtain II corralled as they tumbled to the ground.On the broadcast, CBS rules expert Gene Steratore said he believed&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/1716221608929669400?s=20">the touchdown should have been ruled an interception</a>&nbsp;because Surtain had two feet down before Doubs did. Therefore, Steratore argued, Surtain had completed the catch before Doubs had done so.“That makes me feel better,” Surtain said, “but at the end of the day it was still a touchdown.”Payton concurred, saying, “I was surprised” it wasn't ruled an interception on the field or via the NFL's standard review of all scoring plays. “I think we're going to see that was something that should have been called the other way,” Payton said.Refreee Alex Kemp, however, explained to a pool reporter, “We ruled on the field that the Green Bay receiver controlled the ball while airborne and came to the ground and never lost control of the ball and therefore, by rule, it is a touchdown.”Kemp said simultaneous possession wasn't ruled on the field but even if it had been, the play still would have resulted in a touchdown.NFL Senior Vice President of Officiating Walt Anderson said the TD call was confirmed at league headquarters in New York.“And since the ruling on the field was a touchdown, we reviewed the play for the elements of a catch, which were control and maintaining control when he went to the ground, and then the receiver kept control of the ball,” Anderson said. "There were no views that showed that the receiver ever lost control of the ball from the time he initially possessed it until he completed the catch process on the ground.”Locke's interception rendered it a moot point as far as the outcome was concerned.Wilson rebounded from his worst game as a Bronco a week earlier to throw for 195 yards on 20-of-29 passing with one touchdown, a 18-yarder to Courtland Sutton that gave Denver a 16-3 lead.JACKSON EJECTIONJackson, who’s been fined four times already for illegal hits and drew an ejection against Washington in Week 2, was DQ’d after hitting Musgrave in the head after his 18-yard catch along the Packers sideline early in the fourth quarter.“I think one of the challenges for Kareem is he's got some priors,” Payton said. “So, you know, when you get pulled over and you've had four or five speeding violations, you're going to spend a little more time on the side of the road.”Aaron Jones returned from a pulled hamstring and gained 58 yards on 11 touches, not nearly enough to kick-start Green Bay's stagnant offense.During their last four games, the Packers have been outscored a combined 63-6 in the first half.“We just lost to Denver,” cornerback Rasul Douglas said, his voice dripping with disgust. “Not saying they're terrible, but come on, we're supposed to win, man."INJURIESFour Packers were injured in the second quarter: DL Devonte Wyatt (knee), S Darnell Savage (calf), CB Eric Stokes (hamstring) and WR Jayden Reed (shin). Musgrave (ankle) left after the illegal hit by Jackson.UP NEXTPackers: Host Minnesota next Sunday.Broncos: Host Kansas City next Sunday.

Late-game interception seals Broncos win over Packers

🏈 Week 9 Nebraska Prep Football Scoreboard

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600528709223.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>🏈 Week 9 Nebraska Prep Football ScoreboardChadron 28, McCook 21Garden County 56, Creek Valley 0Hastings 21, Gering 14Mitchell 58, Gordon-Rushville 20Ogallala 28, Holdrege 14Potter-Dix 51, South Platte 15Scottsbluff 66, Lexington 7Sidney 56, Alliance 20Sioux County 65, Minatare 0

🏈 Week 9 Nebraska Prep Football Scoreboard - Friday Games

🏈🏐 High School Scoreboard - Thursday, October 19

Hemingford def. Minatare, 32-30, 25-22 (2-0)

Kimball def. Minatare, 25-21, 25-23 (2-0)

Scottsbluff def. Torrington, WY, 25-13, 25-20, 25-18 (3-0)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629461621684.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>🏈🏐 High School Scoreboard - Thursday, October 19🏈 Football PlayoffsArapahoe 52, Hemingford 22Bridgeport 70, Alma 20Mullen 35, Hyannis 8🏈&nbsp;Regular SeasonCrawford 73, Banner County 12Hay Springs 50, Cody-Kilgore 24🏐 VolleyballHemingford def. Minatare, 32-30, 25-22 (2-0)Kimball def. Minatare, 25-21, 25-23 (2-0)Scottsbluff def. Torrington, WY, 25-13, 25-20, 25-18 (3-0)Alliance at Chadron - No Score Reported

🏈🏐 High School Scoreboard - Thursday, October 19

The Alliance Bulldogs might be 2-6, but they have shown considerable growth under first year head coach T.D Stein, as they nearly dashed rival Chadron's playoff hopes, but ultimately fell 41-26.&nbsp;

This week is a different challenge as they travel to long-time Western Conference Sidney and one of the best Red Raiders teams in recent memory who are 7-1.

"They're a very talented team, they've got talented players everywhere on the field," Stein said. "I like the position that we are in, people underestimating us so I'm excited for the opportunity to play them."

Win one game left in the season, Alliance star quarterback has already written the record books with most passing yards in a season, career and game last week. 

With 1958 passing yards he has a high chance of becoming the first Bulldogs to eclipse 2,000 passing yards in a season. The focus though is winning on the road against one of the most complete teams in Western Nebraska, allowing just 18 points a game.&nbsp;

Alliance's defense will try to contain a balanced offense for Sidney led by Senior quarterback Isak Doty who has 25 touchdowns, 14 on the ground and 11 through the air.

The pregame show will start at about 6:40 with an interview with Coach Stein, followed by remarks from Senior Aiden Hancock as the kickoff with be at 7 p.m.&nbsp;

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697741541196.jpeg" alt="Landen crowe and Alliance offense from earlier this season. (Photo credit to Karen Benzel.)" />
 <figcaption>Landen crowe and Alliance offense from earlier this season. (Photo credit to Karen Benzel.)</figcaption>
 </figure>The Alliance Bulldogs might be 2-6, but they have shown considerable growth under first year head coach T.D Stein, as they nearly dashed rival Chadron's playoff hopes, but ultimately fell 41-26.&nbsp;This week is a different challenge as they travel to long-time Western Conference Sidney and one of the best Red Raiders teams in recent memory who are 7-1."They're a very talented team, they've got talented players everywhere on the field," Stein said. "I like the position that we are in, people underestimating us so I'm excited for the opportunity to play them."Win one game left in the season, Alliance star quarterback has already written the record books with most passing yards in a season, career and game last week. With 1958 passing yards he has a high chance of becoming the first Bulldogs to eclipse 2,000 passing yards in a season. The focus though is winning on the road against one of the most complete teams in Western Nebraska, allowing just 18 points a game.&nbsp;Alliance's defense will try to contain a balanced offense for Sidney led by Senior quarterback Isak Doty who has 25 touchdowns, 14 on the ground and 11 through the air.The pregame show will start at about 6:40 with an interview with Coach Stein, followed by remarks from Senior Aiden Hancock as the kickoff with be at 7 p.m.&nbsp;

HS Football: Alliance aims for road upset of Sidney

With a four-match winning streak and tie for second in the conference standings, the Nebraska soccer team (11-2-3, 5-1-2 Big Ten) aims to continue its momentum as the Huskers wrap up regular season play at home against Purdue and on the road at Illinois.&nbsp;

The Huskers host the Boilermakers (3-11-2, 0-6-2 Big Ten) on Thursday starting at 7:05 p.m. (CT) and battle the Fighting Illini (6-6-3, 2-4-2 Big Ten) on Sunday at 12 p.m. (CT) at Demirjian Park in Champaign, Ill.&nbsp;

Both matches will be streamed live on Big Ten Plus (subscription required to watch).

Last Time Out: The Huskers scored a finish in each half while keeping the Gophers scoreless, as the Nebraska soccer team defeated Minnesota on the road 2-0 Sunday afternoon.&nbsp;

Next Up: After this week's conference matches, Nebraska ­will await the announcement of its seed for the 2023 Big Ten Women's Soccer Tournament starting on Sunday, Oct. 29.

Quick Notes: The Huskers are currently ranked 21st in this week’s RPI. Penn State (first) is the only team in the Big Ten who is ranked higher, and NU is joined by Wisconsin (26th) and Michigan State (28th) in the top 30.&nbsp;

Dale earned her fourth Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week honor last week as she currently leads the country and conference in total goals (21) and game-winning goals (6), while also leading the conference in shots (93), shots on goal (44) and points (46). Additionally, she has tallied nine total braces on the season and is currently tied for fourth all-time in the Husker records in goals scored. Nationally, Dale leads in goals per game (1.31), second in shots on goal per game (2.75) and also second in points (46).&nbsp;

Dale’s total goals and points are the most in the Big Ten since 2013 when Illinois’ Jannelle Flaws had 23 goals and 48 points.

Junior forward Weber has continued her strong offensive attack as she is second in the conference standings in shots (69), third in shots on goal (30), fourth in points (24) and fifth in goals (9).

Junior midfielder Florence Belzile, a member of last week's Top Drawer Soccer team, recorded two assists in Thursday’s game against Maryland and now has a team-high 11 on the season, good for second in the conference and fourth nationally. She also is 10th in the conference standings with 17 points.&nbsp;

As a team, the Huskers are fifth in the nation in assists per game (3.12) and total goals (45), sixth in shots on goal per game (9.38) and seventh in points per game (8.75) and shots per game (19.69).

In the goal, senior Sami Hauk has recorded 61 saves on the year and is currently fourth in saves per game (3.81).

NU enters the week tied for second in the conference standings with 17 points (three points for a win, one point for a tie).

Four of NU’s six freshmen have seen the pitch so far this year, led by Reese Borer who has played 214 minutes

The Huskers’ six goals against Eastern Washington marked the most finishes the Huskers have tallied in a regular season match since the 2011 victory against Northern Arizona (8-1) and the most goals on the road since the win in 2009 at Kansas (7-4). Additionally, that was the first time since NU’s victory over Missouri in 2021 that the Big Red has netted four or more goals in the second half

This season’s win over Eastern Washington also marked the 350th win in program history. Head Coach John Walker achieved the same milestone, having been at the helm of the program since its inception in 1994.

Head Coach John Walker is in his 30th season, alongside assistant coaches Savanah Anderson-Baer (first season), Ian Bridge (eighth season) and Marty Everding (26th season).&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Scouting the Purdue BoilermakersPurdue is 3-11-2 overall with a 0-6-2 record in Big Ten Play. The Boilermakers are coming off a recent 0-0 tie against No. 4 Penn State and a 2-1 loss at Illinois.

Nebraska leads the all-time series, 8-5-1, dating back to the first meeting between the schools in 2001. Most recently, the teams tied 1-1 in 2022 in Indiana.&nbsp;

Head Coach Drew Roff is in his ninth season at Purdue. He is assisted by Jim Schneiderhahn and Kelsey Brouwer.&nbsp;

Scouting the Illinois Fighting IlliniIllinois is 6-6-3 this season with a 2-4-2 record in Big Ten play. The Fighting Illini face Michigan State on Thursday night before their matchup against Nebraska on Sunday.

The Fighting Illini leads the all-time series between the two teams, 5-8-0, dating back to 2004. The Huskers are on a two-match winning streak against the Fighting Illini as NU won 3-1 in both 2021 and 2022.

Head Coach Janet Rayfield is 226-173-43 in her 22nd season at Illinois. Rayfield is assisted by Jeff Freeman and Sammy Jo Prudhomme.&nbsp;

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsWith a four-match winning streak and tie for second in the conference standings, the Nebraska soccer team (11-2-3, 5-1-2 Big Ten) aims to continue its momentum as the Huskers wrap up regular season play at home against Purdue and on the road at Illinois.&nbsp;The Huskers host the Boilermakers (3-11-2, 0-6-2 Big Ten) on Thursday starting at 7:05 p.m. (CT) and battle the Fighting Illini (6-6-3, 2-4-2 Big Ten) on Sunday at 12 p.m. (CT) at Demirjian Park in Champaign, Ill.&nbsp;Both matches will be streamed live on Big Ten Plus (subscription required to watch).Last Time Out: The Huskers scored a finish in each half while keeping the Gophers scoreless, as the Nebraska soccer team defeated Minnesota on the road 2-0 Sunday afternoon.&nbsp;Next Up: After this week's conference matches, Nebraska ­will await the announcement of its seed for the 2023 Big Ten Women's Soccer Tournament starting on Sunday, Oct. 29.Quick Notes: The Huskers are currently ranked 21st in this week’s RPI. Penn State (first) is the only team in the Big Ten who is ranked higher, and NU is joined by Wisconsin (26th) and Michigan State (28th) in the top 30.&nbsp;Dale earned her fourth Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week honor last week as she currently leads the country and conference in total goals (21) and game-winning goals (6), while also leading the conference in shots (93), shots on goal (44) and points (46). Additionally, she has tallied nine total braces on the season and is currently tied for fourth all-time in the Husker records in goals scored. Nationally, Dale leads in goals per game (1.31), second in shots on goal per game (2.75) and also second in points (46).&nbsp;Dale’s total goals and points are the most in the Big Ten since 2013 when Illinois’ Jannelle Flaws had 23 goals and 48 points.Junior forward Weber has continued her strong offensive attack as she is second in the conference standings in shots (69), third in shots on goal (30), fourth in points (24) and fifth in goals (9).Junior midfielder Florence Belzile, a member of last week's Top Drawer Soccer team, recorded two assists in Thursday’s game against Maryland and now has a team-high 11 on the season, good for second in the conference and fourth nationally. She also is 10th in the conference standings with 17 points.&nbsp;As a team, the Huskers are fifth in the nation in assists per game (3.12) and total goals (45), sixth in shots on goal per game (9.38) and seventh in points per game (8.75) and shots per game (19.69).In the goal, senior Sami Hauk has recorded 61 saves on the year and is currently fourth in saves per game (3.81).NU enters the week tied for second in the conference standings with 17 points (three points for a win, one point for a tie).Four of NU’s six freshmen have seen the pitch so far this year, led by Reese Borer who has played 214 minutesThe Huskers’ six goals against Eastern Washington marked the most finishes the Huskers have tallied in a regular season match since the 2011 victory against Northern Arizona (8-1) and the most goals on the road since the win in 2009 at Kansas (7-4). Additionally, that was the first time since NU’s victory over Missouri in 2021 that the Big Red has netted four or more goals in the second halfThis season’s win over Eastern Washington also marked the 350th win in program history. Head Coach John Walker achieved the same milestone, having been at the helm of the program since its inception in 1994.Head Coach John Walker is in his 30th season, alongside assistant coaches Savanah Anderson-Baer (first season), Ian Bridge (eighth season) and Marty Everding (26th season).&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Scouting the Purdue BoilermakersPurdue is 3-11-2 overall with a 0-6-2 record in Big Ten Play. The Boilermakers are coming off a recent 0-0 tie against No. 4 Penn State and a 2-1 loss at Illinois.Nebraska leads the all-time series, 8-5-1, dating back to the first meeting between the schools in 2001. Most recently, the teams tied 1-1 in 2022 in Indiana.&nbsp;Head Coach Drew Roff is in his ninth season at Purdue. He is assisted by Jim Schneiderhahn and Kelsey Brouwer.&nbsp;Players to Watch<ol>
 <li>#24 Kayla Budish: Team-high eight points (three goals and two assists)</li><li>#10 Emily Mathews: Team-high five assists</li><li>#1 Charlotte Cyr: Has recorded 62 saves and one shutout on the year&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>Scouting the Illinois Fighting IlliniIllinois is 6-6-3 this season with a 2-4-2 record in Big Ten play. The Fighting Illini face Michigan State on Thursday night before their matchup against Nebraska on Sunday.The Fighting Illini leads the all-time series between the two teams, 5-8-0, dating back to 2004. The Huskers are on a two-match winning streak against the Fighting Illini as NU won 3-1 in both 2021 and 2022.Head Coach Janet Rayfield is 226-173-43 in her 22nd season at Illinois. Rayfield is assisted by Jeff Freeman and Sammy Jo Prudhomme.&nbsp;Players to Watch<ol>
 <li>#22 Lia Howard: Team-high 12 points (four goals and four assists)</li><li>#28 Sydney Stephens: Tied for the team-high with goals, while adding one assist</li><li>#1 Julia Cili: Has recorded 75 saves and two shutouts this season&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>

#25 Huskers soccer Look to Purdue, Illinois

After nine days off from varsity competition, the Alliance Bulldogs volleyball team hits the road today (Thursday) for the final Western Conference match of season against the Chadron Cardinals.

The Bulldogs are 15-14 on the season and had won three in a row before losing their last game to Scottsbluff 2-0 on Oct. 10. Alliance is currently ranked 13th in the Class B RPI as they face 14-20 Chadron.

This is the fourth meeting between the two rival schools this season as Alliance has won two of three meetings: Chadron won 3-2 in the first meeting on Sept. 5 in Alliance, the Bulldogs won the next two meetings 2-0, 2-0.

Alliance will end the regular season with a home match against South Dakota power Hill City on Saturday.&nbsp; Alliance will begin Sub-District play against Gering and then potentially Scottsbluff.

Tune in to the broadcast tonight from Chadron at 6 p.m. on KCOW AM 1400 and 92.5, and listen worldwide on&nbsp;<a href="https://kcowradio.com/">KCOW – THE HOME OF JASON WENTWORTH IN THE MORNING (kcowradio.com)</a>

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostAfter nine days off from varsity competition, the Alliance Bulldogs volleyball team hits the road today (Thursday) for the final Western Conference match of season against the Chadron Cardinals.The Bulldogs are 15-14 on the season and had won three in a row before losing their last game to Scottsbluff 2-0 on Oct. 10. Alliance is currently ranked 13th in the Class B RPI as they face 14-20 Chadron.This is the fourth meeting between the two rival schools this season as Alliance has won two of three meetings: Chadron won 3-2 in the first meeting on Sept. 5 in Alliance, the Bulldogs won the next two meetings 2-0, 2-0.Alliance will end the regular season with a home match against South Dakota power Hill City on Saturday.&nbsp; Alliance will begin Sub-District play against Gering and then potentially Scottsbluff.Tune in to the broadcast tonight from Chadron at 6 p.m. on KCOW AM 1400 and 92.5, and listen worldwide on&nbsp;<a href="https://kcowradio.com/">KCOW – THE HOME OF JASON WENTWORTH IN THE MORNING (kcowradio.com)</a>

Alliance Volleyball faces rival Chadron as regular season winds down

The No. 2 Nebraska volleyball team swept Northwestern 25-15, 25-16, 25-21 on Wednesday night at Welsh-Ryan Arena.&nbsp;

The Huskers hit a season-best .395 in the match while improving to 18-0 overall and 9-0 in Big Ten play. Merritt Beason had 13 kills and hit .323 with seven digs and three blocks, while Harper Murray had 10 kills and hit .412 and served a career-high four aces. Bekka Allick contributed nine kills on .800 hitting with a pair of blocks. Andi Jackson had seven kills and hit .667.&nbsp;

Bergen Reilly had 38 set assists and six digs served a pair of aces. The Huskers had nine aces in the match. Nebraska had 45 kills to 26 for Northwestern and won the digs battle, 35-26. Lexi Rodriguez had nine digs to lead the Big Red.&nbsp;

Northwestern dropped to 9-10 overall and 3-6 in Big Ten play. The Wildcats were held to a .125 hitting percentage for the match.&nbsp;

Set 1: The Huskers built a 14-6 lead with Allick registering three kills and two blocks. After Northwestern pulled within 14-10, Allick had two more kills around one by Beason for a 17-10 Husker lead. Three kills and an ace by Beason, and kills by Jackson and Batenhorst took the Huskers to set point, 24-14. A Jackson kill finished the set at 25-15. Beason had seven kills on 12 swings, while Allick had five, as the Huskers hit .483 and held the Wildcats to .136.&nbsp;

Set 2: An ace by Reilly and kill by Allick helped the Huskers to a 4-0 lead. Beason added a kill and Murray served an ace for a 6-2 lead, but the Wildcats pulled within 8-6. Nebraska then used a 9-4 spurt to go up 17-10. Jackson had two kills in that stretch, while Murray, Allick and Beason each had one. Northwestern pulled within 17-13, but Beason and Jackson answered with kills for a 19-13 lead. Reilly had a kill and ace down the stretch, and Murray and Beason tacked on kills as the Big Red won 25-16. Nebraska hit .542 in set two, and Northwestern hit .161.&nbsp;

Set 3: Nebraska led 12-11 when Beason had a kill and Jackson had a solo block to make it 14-11. Rodriguez then served Nebraska's ninth ace for a 15-11 lead. But the Huskers surrendered a 4-0 run to Northwestern and the set was tied 15-15. Murray had back-to-back kills to lift the Huskers to a 19-16 lead, and two more Murray kills made it 21-18. After the Wildcats got within 22-21, Allick and Batenhorst posted kills and Nebraska won 25-21. Murray had eight of her 10 kills in the final set.&nbsp;

Up Next: Nebraska will host No. 1 Wisconsin on Saturday at 7 p.m. at the Bob Devaney Sports Center. The match will be televised on Big Ten Network.&nbsp;

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsThe No. 2 Nebraska volleyball team swept Northwestern 25-15, 25-16, 25-21 on Wednesday night at Welsh-Ryan Arena.&nbsp;The Huskers hit a season-best .395 in the match while improving to 18-0 overall and 9-0 in Big Ten play. Merritt Beason had 13 kills and hit .323 with seven digs and three blocks, while Harper Murray had 10 kills and hit .412 and served a career-high four aces. Bekka Allick contributed nine kills on .800 hitting with a pair of blocks. Andi Jackson had seven kills and hit .667.&nbsp;Bergen Reilly had 38 set assists and six digs served a pair of aces. The Huskers had nine aces in the match. Nebraska had 45 kills to 26 for Northwestern and won the digs battle, 35-26. Lexi Rodriguez had nine digs to lead the Big Red.&nbsp;Northwestern dropped to 9-10 overall and 3-6 in Big Ten play. The Wildcats were held to a .125 hitting percentage for the match.&nbsp;Set 1: The Huskers built a 14-6 lead with Allick registering three kills and two blocks. After Northwestern pulled within 14-10, Allick had two more kills around one by Beason for a 17-10 Husker lead. Three kills and an ace by Beason, and kills by Jackson and Batenhorst took the Huskers to set point, 24-14. A Jackson kill finished the set at 25-15. Beason had seven kills on 12 swings, while Allick had five, as the Huskers hit .483 and held the Wildcats to .136.&nbsp;Set 2: An ace by Reilly and kill by Allick helped the Huskers to a 4-0 lead. Beason added a kill and Murray served an ace for a 6-2 lead, but the Wildcats pulled within 8-6. Nebraska then used a 9-4 spurt to go up 17-10. Jackson had two kills in that stretch, while Murray, Allick and Beason each had one. Northwestern pulled within 17-13, but Beason and Jackson answered with kills for a 19-13 lead. Reilly had a kill and ace down the stretch, and Murray and Beason tacked on kills as the Big Red won 25-16. Nebraska hit .542 in set two, and Northwestern hit .161.&nbsp;Set 3: Nebraska led 12-11 when Beason had a kill and Jackson had a solo block to make it 14-11. Rodriguez then served Nebraska's ninth ace for a 15-11 lead. But the Huskers surrendered a 4-0 run to Northwestern and the set was tied 15-15. Murray had back-to-back kills to lift the Huskers to a 19-16 lead, and two more Murray kills made it 21-18. After the Wildcats got within 22-21, Allick and Batenhorst posted kills and Nebraska won 25-21. Murray had eight of her 10 kills in the final set.&nbsp;Up Next: Nebraska will host No. 1 Wisconsin on Saturday at 7 p.m. at the Bob Devaney Sports Center. The match will be televised on Big Ten Network.&nbsp;

Huskers Sweep Northwestern on the Road

🏐 Nebraska Prep Volleyball Scoreboard - Tuesday, October 18

Bayard def. Mitchell, 25-20, 25-19, 16-25, 25-23 (3-1) (Bayard finishes regular season 28-0)

Bridgeport def. Hay Springs, 25-14, 25-14, 25-10 (3-0)

Cody-Kilgore def. Crawford, 25-15, 26-24, 25-13 (3-0)

Crawford def. Oelrichs, SD, 25-0, 25-0 (2-0) FORFEIT

Garden County def. South Platte, 20-25, 25-21, 25-21 (2-1)

Gering def. Sidney, 25-18, 25-18, 25-21 (3-0)

Gordon-Rushville def. Morrill, 23-25, 23-25, 25-18, 25-12, 15-11 (3-2)

Hyannis def. Creek Valley, 25-17, 25-16 (2-0)

Leyton def. Garden County, 25-9, 25-13 (2-0)

Leyton def. South Platte, 25-14, 25-16 (2-0)

Ogallala def. North Platte, 25-14, 25-18, 25-14 (3-0)

Perkins County def. Kimball, 25-16, 25-14, 25-23 (3-0)

Potter-Dix def. Creek Valley, 25-15, 25-16 (2-0)

Potter-Dix def. Hyannis, 25-12, 25-20 (2-0)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598923669137.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By: Dave Collins Sports Director🏐 Nebraska Prep Volleyball Scoreboard - Tuesday, October 18Bayard def. Mitchell, 25-20, 25-19, 16-25, 25-23 (3-1) (Bayard finishes regular season 28-0)Bridgeport def. Hay Springs, 25-14, 25-14, 25-10 (3-0)Cody-Kilgore def. Crawford, 25-15, 26-24, 25-13 (3-0)Crawford def. Oelrichs, SD, 25-0, 25-0 (2-0) FORFEITGarden County def. South Platte, 20-25, 25-21, 25-21 (2-1)Gering def. Sidney, 25-18, 25-18, 25-21 (3-0)Gordon-Rushville def. Morrill, 23-25, 23-25, 25-18, 25-12, 15-11 (3-2)Hyannis def. Creek Valley, 25-17, 25-16 (2-0)Leyton def. Garden County, 25-9, 25-13 (2-0)Leyton def. South Platte, 25-14, 25-16 (2-0)Ogallala def. North Platte, 25-14, 25-18, 25-14 (3-0)Perkins County def. Kimball, 25-16, 25-14, 25-23 (3-0)Potter-Dix def. Creek Valley, 25-15, 25-16 (2-0)Potter-Dix def. Hyannis, 25-12, 25-20 (2-0)

🏐 Nebraska Prep Volleyball Scoreboard - Tuesday, October 18

Head Coach Jay Long and Voice of the Eagles Dave Collins go inside the dominating 53-14 win at Adams State, discuss replay reviews and a targeting decision that impacts this week, and we learn about key roster changes with the Pueblo rivalry game on the horizon!

<div><iframe title="Jay Long Show - 10/17/23" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=jkvqu-14d3c0b-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=c73a3a" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>Head Coach Jay Long and Voice of the Eagles Dave Collins go inside the dominating 53-14 win at Adams State, discuss replay reviews and a targeting decision that impacts this week, and we learn about key roster changes with the Pueblo rivalry game on the horizon!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666116284028.jpeg" alt="" />
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🔊 Jay Long Show - 10/17/23

On Friday night the Hemingford Bobcats knew the task at hand, win and you're most likely in, and the Bobcats did just that as they held a 50-0 halftime lead before cruising to a 66-0 win over Morrill. The victory sets up a road game in the first round of the playoffs on Thursday at 4 PM MT at 7-1 Arapahoe.

"We can't wait to make the most of our opportunity to compete in another game," Hemingford Head Coach Josh Dean said.&nbsp; "We believe we are playing our best football right now, which is exactly what we need to be doing."

&nbsp;It was a complete team win for the Bobcats as y they held Morrill to under 100 yards of offense and forced three interceptions, by Carson Haas, Jacob Bryner, and Anthony Haas.&nbsp;

Offensively seven runners had carries for Hemingford, scoring nine rushing touchdowns, including three for Cody Galles and two each for Zaine Feist and Jacob Bryner.

Bobcats have won three straight games and look to keep the momentum going against Arapahoe who won 78-30 over Sandhills Valley on Fri.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697469178497.jpeg" alt="Hemingford FB Picture (Courtesy of Hemingford Public Schools)" />
 <figcaption>Hemingford FB Picture (Courtesy of Hemingford Public Schools)</figcaption>
 </figure>By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostOn Friday night the Hemingford Bobcats knew the task at hand, win and you're most likely in, and the Bobcats did just that as they held a 50-0 halftime lead before cruising to a 66-0 win over Morrill. The victory sets up a road game in the first round of the playoffs on Thursday at 4 PM MT at 7-1 Arapahoe."We can't wait to make the most of our opportunity to compete in another game," Hemingford Head Coach Josh Dean said.&nbsp; "We believe we are playing our best football right now, which is exactly what we need to be doing."&nbsp;It was a complete team win for the Bobcats as y they held Morrill to under 100 yards of offense and forced three interceptions, by Carson Haas, Jacob Bryner, and Anthony Haas.&nbsp;Offensively seven runners had carries for Hemingford, scoring nine rushing touchdowns, including three for Cody Galles and two each for Zaine Feist and Jacob Bryner.Bobcats have won three straight games and look to keep the momentum going against Arapahoe who won 78-30 over Sandhills Valley on Fri.

HS Football: Hemingford clinches playoff spot after rout of Morrill

Alliance Public Schools announced on Tuesday that Carlos Palomo has resigned as Head Coach of Alliance Softball after nine seasons.&nbsp;

Alliance Activities Director Michael Baker tells Panhandle Post that Coach Palomo wishes to pursue a master's degree and needs to devote time to that program of study.

"We thank Coach Palomo for all he has done for our softball program the last nine years," a press release by the school said.

Coach Palomo will continue to teach Physical Education at Alliance High School.&nbsp; He will also continue to coach the Alliance Spartans Legion Baseball team.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697556716561.jpeg" alt="Carlos Palomo.jpg (Photo courtesy of Alliance Public Schools)" />
 <figcaption>Carlos Palomo.jpg (Photo courtesy of Alliance Public Schools)</figcaption>
 </figure>Alliance Public Schools announced on Tuesday that Carlos Palomo has resigned as Head Coach of Alliance Softball after nine seasons.&nbsp;Alliance Activities Director Michael Baker tells Panhandle Post that Coach Palomo wishes to pursue a master's degree and needs to devote time to that program of study."We thank Coach Palomo for all he has done for our softball program the last nine years," a press release by the school said.Coach Palomo will continue to teach Physical Education at Alliance High School.&nbsp; He will also continue to coach the Alliance Spartans Legion Baseball team.&nbsp;&nbsp;