Nebraska – The Cornhuskers

Nebraska is a state located in the Great Plains region of the United States. It is known for its vast prairies, beautiful farmland, and of course, the Cornhuskers. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln is home to the famous college football team, the Nebraska Cornhuskers, which has a rich history and a strong fan base.

History of the Cornhuskers

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln has a long-standing tradition of football, dating back to 1890 when the team was first established. The team officially became known as the Cornhuskers in 1900, after a writer for the Nebraska State Journal referred to the players as “cornhuskers” because of the state’s main agricultural crop.

From then on, the Cornhuskers have been a dominant force in college football, with a total of 5 national championships, 46 conference championships, and more than 900 all-time wins. In fact, they have the fourth-most wins of any college football team in the country.

Memorial Stadium

The Cornhuskers play their home games at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln, Nebraska. It is the third-largest stadium in the country, with a capacity of over 85,000 people. The stadium is known for its “Sea of Red” on game days, where fans dress in the team’s signature color to show their support.

Memorial Stadium has seen many renovations and expansions over the years, but it still maintains its traditional look and feel. The fans are also known for their loud and boisterous support, making it one of the toughest places for opposing teams to play.

Traditions

The Cornhuskers have several traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation. The first one is the “Tunnel Walk”, where the team exits the locker room and walks through a tunnel of screaming fans to the field before every home game. It is a sight to see and adds to the excitement of game day.

Another tradition is the “Blackshirts”, which refers to the black jerseys worn by the team’s defensive players. These are given to players who have earned the honor of being in the starting lineup or have stood out in practice. It is a symbol of excellence and a tradition that has been carried on for decades.

The Cornhuskers also have a tradition of excellence in academics. The team has consistently maintained high academic standards, with many players receiving academic honors and scholarship awards. This not only shows the team’s dedication to success on the field but also in the classroom.

Rivalries

The Cornhuskers have several rivalries with other college football teams, but the most notable one is with the University of Oklahoma. This rivalry dates back to 1912 and is known as the “Game of the Century” when both teams were undefeated and played to a tie in 1959. This rivalry has been revived in recent years as both teams are now in the same conference.

Another notable rivalry is with the University of Iowa, known as the “Heroes Trophy” game. The trophy is a tribute to the many heroes from both states who have served in the military. This rivalry has been played since 1891 and is always a highly anticipated game.

Impact on the Community

The Cornhuskers have a huge impact on the community in Nebraska. On game days, the city of Lincoln is flooded with fans from all over the state, bringing in revenue for local businesses. The team also participates in various community service events and programs, such as visiting children’s hospitals and helping with local charities.

The Cornhuskers also have a strong influence on the youth in Nebraska. Many kids grow up dreaming of playing for the Cornhuskers and see the team as role models. The team’s commitment to academics also sets a good example for young fans, inspiring them to work hard in both sports and school.

Conclusion

The Nebraska Cornhuskers are more than just a college football team. They are a symbol of pride and tradition for the state of Nebraska. With their rich history, strong fan base, and commitment to excellence, the Cornhuskers will continue to be a dominant force in college football for years to come.