Nebraska Edges Cincinnati, 6-3, in Low-Scoring Season Opener

KANSAS CITY, MO. - In a defensive slugfest under the lights at Arrowhead Stadium on Thursday night, the Cincinnati Bearcats fell to the Nebraska Cornhuskers, 6-3, to open the 2025 season.

The Bearcats’ only points came on a 45-yard field goal by freshman kicker Stephen Rusnak early in the first quarter, while Nebraska countered with two field goals from Kyle Cunanan (52 yards in the second quarter and 29 yards in the third) for the final margin.

Cincinnati debuted a striking all-red uniform look highlighted by a new script “Cincy” helmet, marking the first time the Bearcats have forsaken their traditional C-paw logo for classic lettering in program history. Despite the eye-catching attire, the Bearcats’ offense struggled to generate sustained drives against Nebraska’s No. 36 nationally ranked total defense from 2024. Quarterback Brendan Sorsby finished 6-of-10 for 15 yards, while running back Tawee Walker led the ground game with 19 yards on three carries.

Defensively, Cincinnati forced one fumble and limited Nebraska to 101 passing yards and 72 rushing yards-even as Cornhuskers freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola and the offense managed only field-goal range opportunities. The Bearcats’ special teams kept Nebraska out of the end zone, but the offense was unable to capitalize beyond Rusnak’s lone kick.

With the loss, Cincinnati drops to 0-1, while Nebraska improves to 1-0. Both teams will return to conference play next week, with the Bearcats hosting Big 12 rival Kansas State and the Cornhuskers traveling to face Minnesota.