Nebraska Cornhuskers news: Big Ten tournament seed, UCLA retainer deal, TJ Lateef impact

The Nebraska Cornhuskers slipped to second place in the upcoming Big Ten tournament after a tough 11-6 loss to Michigan State. They face seventh-seeded Ohio State on Tuesday. More broadly, UCLA will pay Cal $10 million annually for the next three years to support Cal's integration into the ACC after UCLA itself is promoted to the Big Ten. On the football front, Nebraska has secured the commitment of 4-star quarterback TJ Lateef, a significant addition following the previous 5-star recruit. Additionally, a record 103 Husker student-athletes, including some NFL players, earned their degrees at recent graduation ceremonies.

Through the numbers

• Paid $10 million annually by UCLA to Cal for the next 3 years.
• 103 Husker student-athletes graduated this weekend, including NFL players.

Yes but

While UCLA expects increased revenue by joining the Big Ten, the move also brings financial and logistical challenges, including a significant budget deficit and increased travel costs. Additionally, Cal joining the ACC brings reduced payments through the 2030s, partially offset by “calimony.”

Game Status

• Nebraska will face Ohio State on Tuesday in Game 2 of the Big Ten Tournament.
• Top-seeded Illinois will face No. 8 seed Penn State in the first round.

What's next

For Nebraska, the focus shifts to the duel against Ohio State with a view to advancing in the Big Ten Tournament. The decision on who will start the game is still pending, although Brett Sears is a potential candidate. For UCLA and Cal, the financial and logistical changes will continue to unfold, with “Calimony” easing some of the financial burdens during their respective conference integrations.

Bottom line

The Nebraska Cornhuskers have crucial days ahead in the Big Ten Tournament, while UCLA and Cal must navigate significant financial and logistical changes in their new conference alignment. The Huskers' recent successes, both on the field and academically, demonstrate a solid program poised for future success.