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25 Facts About Nebraska Vs. Penn State

Gusta Caballero

Written by Gusta Caballero

Published: 01 Dec 2025

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Source: Gopsusports.com

Who holds the edge in the Nebraska vs. Penn State rivalry? This question sparks heated debates among fans of both teams. Nebraska and Penn State have a storied history on the football field, each boasting impressive records and legendary players. Nebraska, known for its "Blackshirts" defense, has a rich tradition of championships and powerhouse teams. Penn State, with its "Linebacker U" reputation, has produced numerous NFL stars and memorable moments. Both teams have passionate fan bases that fill stadiums and create electric atmospheres. In this blog post, we'll dive into 25 fascinating facts about the Nebraska vs. Penn State rivalry to see which team truly has the upper hand.

Table of Contents
01Nebraska vs. Penn State: A Storied Rivalry
02Memorable Moments and Milestones
03Coaching Legends
04Players Who Made History
05Stadium Atmosphere
06Final Thoughts on Nebraska vs. Penn State

Nebraska vs. Penn State: A Storied Rivalry

Nebraska and Penn State have faced off numerous times on the football field, creating a rich history filled with memorable moments. Here are some fascinating facts about this rivalry.

  1. The first game between Nebraska and Penn State took place in 1920, with Nebraska winning 20-0.

  2. Nebraska and Penn State have played a total of 19 times as of 2023.

  3. Nebraska leads the all-time series with 10 wins, 8 losses, and 1 tie.

  4. The largest margin of victory in the series was a 49-0 win by Penn State in 2002.

  5. The most recent game in 2022 saw Nebraska winning 30-23.

Memorable Moments and Milestones

Throughout their history, Nebraska and Penn State have had some unforgettable games. Here are a few highlights.

  1. In 1982, Penn State won a controversial game 27-24, which many Nebraska fans still debate due to a questionable call.

  2. The 1994 game saw Penn State winning 24-7, a key victory in their undefeated season.

  3. Nebraska's 2003 victory, 18-10, was notable for its defensive prowess, holding Penn State to just 44 rushing yards.

  4. The 2011 game was the first for Penn State after the firing of legendary coach Joe Paterno, with Nebraska winning 17-14.

  5. In 2012, Nebraska overcame a 14-point deficit to win 32-23, showcasing their resilience.

Coaching Legends

Both teams have been led by some of the most iconic coaches in college football history.

  1. Tom Osborne, Nebraska's legendary coach, led the Cornhuskers from 1973 to 1997, winning three national championships.

  2. Joe Paterno, Penn State's iconic coach, served from 1966 to 2011, amassing 409 wins, the most in major college football history.

  3. Bo Pelini coached Nebraska from 2008 to 2014, leading them to several bowl games.

  4. James Franklin has been Penn State's head coach since 2014, revitalizing the program with multiple 10-win seasons.

  5. Bob Devaney, another Nebraska coaching legend, led the team from 1962 to 1972, winning two national championships.

Players Who Made History

Several players from both teams have left an indelible mark on college football.

  1. Mike Rozier, Nebraska's running back, won the Heisman Trophy in 1983.

  2. LaVar Arrington, Penn State's linebacker, was a two-time All-American and a first-round NFL draft pick.

  3. Ndamukong Suh, a dominant defensive tackle for Nebraska, was a Heisman finalist in 2009.

  4. Saquon Barkley, Penn State's star running back, won the Paul Hornung Award in 2017 for the most versatile player in college football.

  5. Eric Crouch, Nebraska's quarterback, won the Heisman Trophy in 2001.

Stadium Atmosphere

The venues for these games have added to the excitement and intensity of the rivalry.

  1. Memorial Stadium in Lincoln, Nebraska, has a seating capacity of over 85,000 and has sold out every game since 1962.

  2. Beaver Stadium in University Park, Pennsylvania, is one of the largest stadiums in the country, with a capacity of over 106,000.

  3. The "Sea of Red" at Memorial Stadium creates one of the most intimidating atmospheres in college football.

  4. Beaver Stadium's "White Out" games are legendary, with fans wearing white to create a visually stunning and loud environment.

  5. Both stadiums are known for their passionate and knowledgeable fan bases, making every game a thrilling experience.

Final Thoughts on Nebraska vs. Penn State

Nebraska and Penn State have rich histories and unique traditions that make their matchups exciting. Nebraska's football legacy, with its passionate fans and storied past, contrasts with Penn State's strong defensive reputation and iconic whiteout games. Both schools boast impressive athletic programs, contributing to memorable moments on the field.

Beyond sports, Nebraska's agricultural roots and Penn State's research contributions highlight their broader impact. Whether you're a fan of the Cornhuskers or the Nittany Lions, appreciating these facts adds depth to the rivalry.

Next time these teams face off, you'll have a deeper understanding of what makes this matchup special. So, grab your gear, cheer for your team, and enjoy the game with newfound knowledge.

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