Nebraska Faces Off Against No. 22 Kansas: A Showdown in Lawrence
Date: April 8, 2025
Location: Hoglund Ballpark, Lawrence, Kansas
Time: 6 p.m. CT
Pitching Matchup: A Duel of Talents
Ryan Harrahill (0-0, 3.24 ERA) will take the mound for the Nebraska Cornhuskers, going head-to-head against the **Jayhawks’ Patrick Steitz** (2-0, 3.27 ERA). Both right-handed pitchers bring unique skills to this midweek clash, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Tune In and Follow the Action
Catch all the excitement of this highly anticipated matchup live on ESPN+, or listen to Nick Handley’s thrilling commentary on the Huskers Radio Network. You can also stream the game for free on Huskers.com and the **official Nebraska Huskers app**, available on all devices.
Nebraska vs. Kansas: A Rivalry Rekindled
The Huskers boast a historic edge over the Jayhawks, holding a **149-103-2** record in their all-time meetings. However, Kansas swept Nebraska in last season’s face-offs, clinching victories of **13-11** in Lawrence and **9-4** in Lincoln. Can Nebraska turn the tables this time around?
Injury Update: A Setback for Nebraska
In a significant setback for the Huskers, junior right-handed pitcher Mason McConnaughey will be sidelined for the remainder of the 2025 season following an arm injury sustained during the Frisco Classic against Sam Houston. This follows his recognition as the first Husker named to the **Golden Spikes Award Preseason Watch List** since 2016.
The Challenge of Ranked Opponents
Tuesday’s encounter marks Nebraska’s sixth game against a ranked opponent in 2025. With a record of **3-2** against ranked teams thus far, including victories over **No. 16 Vanderbilt** and **No. 5 Oregon State**, the Huskers are eager to add Kansas to their list of conquests. This matchup is crucial as they continue to test their mettle against top-tier competition.
Offensive Firepower: Nebraska’s Success Formula
Under head coach Will Bolt, Nebraska excels when scoring **six or more runs**. The team boasts a remarkable **117-25** record in such games since Bolt’s tenure began. This season, the Huskers have scored over six runs in **13** of their **14 victories**, showcasing impressive firepower against formidable opponents.
Historic Wins: Breaking Barriers
The Huskers achieved a thrilling milestone by securing their first top-five series victory since **2011**, coming against **No. 5 Oregon State** at Hawks Field. After a challenging first game, Nebraska bounced back spectacularly, demonstrating resilience and offensive prowess throughout the series.
Key Players to Watch
The spotlight will shine on Case Sanderson, who recently turned heads with back-to-back **four-hit** games, a feat not accomplished by a Husker since 2022. His performance could prove pivotal in steering Nebraska toward victory.
Rising Offensive Metrics
Recently, Nebraska’s offensive output has surged, scoring an average of **7.4 runs** per game over the last ten contests, with a team batting average climbing to **.323**. This upward trend is critical as they face the Jayhawks, whose strong pitching will test the Huskers’ newfound rhythm.
Who Will Prevail? The Road Ahead
With Nebraska’s gritty determination and Kansas’s ranking on the line, this showdown promises to be a heart-pounding thriller. Will Nebraska avenge last season’s defeats, or will Kansas solidify their standing among the nation’s elite?
Get ready for a night of gripping baseball action as both teams vie for supremacy in this storied rivalry!
