2025 Episode 13: Huskers Beat Maryland And Matt Rhule To Penn State Rumors Start

The Rush Radio Show, powered by Willis Automotive, with Travis Justice and Ross Peterson, Monday, October 13, 2025. www.therushradio.com

For the second straight week, Nebraska clawed its way back from a second-half deficit to pull out a win. Despite Dylan Raiola throwing three interceptions and the Huskers trailing Maryland by 7 points, Nebraska rallied for a 34–31 victory over the Terrapins. In this episode of the Husker Doc Talk Podcast, Travis Justice and Dr. Rob Zatechka break down how the Huskers found a way to win and what this comeback means for the rest of the season. But the biggest storyline emerging this week isn’t just Nebraska’s resiliency — it’s the future of Head Coach Matt Rhule. With Penn State firing James Franklin after a stunning home loss to Northwestern, Rhule’s name has quickly surfaced as a top candidate. A Penn State alum and former player, he’s already being mentioned across national media outlets. Is the Penn State job truly better than Nebraska? Dr. Rob weighs in with his thoughts — and what it could mean for the Huskers moving forward. Please support our sponsors: This podcast would not be possible without the generosity and support of our sponsors. Gdefy Shoes Like Gdefy Shoes and their patented Verso Shock technology, which offers absorption, body alignment, and a trampoline-like energy, Gdefy shoes are perfect for any activity. They offer a 60-day money-back guarantee, unmatched comfort, and two free orthotics. The holiday season is here, so save money by getting 50% off an order of $120 or more by entering the promo code DOCTALK50 at checkout at Gdefy.com. Husker Hounds Speaking of the holidays, get the Cornhusker fan in your family the best Nebraska gear at Husker Hounds. There are two locations in the Omaha area, and you can find them online at HuskerHounds.com.  The Orr Law Group The legal process can be intimidating. Let the experts at Orr Law Group help you navigate the court system. They handle all types of litigation. Connor Orr and his team are compassionate and caring lawyers who provide a positive and experienced representation to their clients. Get more information from the Orr Law Group.  Centris Federal Credit Union For all your banking needs, turn to Centris Federal Credit Union, the official sponsor of the Doc's Diagnosis. Discover the benefits of membership at Centris Federal Credit Union, member NCUA.  Husker Max Husker Max provides the best Nebraska football and sports information. They distribute this podcast weekly and are the go-to source for all Husker news. 

Nebraska beats Michigan State 38–27 in a game that felt tougher than it had to be.  On this edition of the Husker Doc Talk Podcast, Travis Justice and Dr. Rob Zatechka break down the sacks (12 in two weeks), what the staff is asking Dylan Raiola to do (and not do), and why Mike Eckler’s special teams might be Nebraska’s best unit right now. They reset Cincinnati’s profile after the Iowa State game (that Week 1 Husker win looks stronger), preview Maryland, and hit the national slate: Penn State’s slide and James Franklin’s ceiling, UCLA’s sudden offensive identity, Alabama’s steady climb, and Arch Manning vs. the hype. Please support our sponsors: This podcast would not be possible without the generosity and support of our sponsors. Gdefy Shoes Like Gdefy Shoes and their patented Verso Shock technology, which offers absorption, body alignment, and a trampoline-like energy, Gdefy shoes are perfect for any activity. They offer a 60-day money-back guarantee, unmatched comfort, and two free orthotics. The holiday season is here, so save money by getting 50% off an order of $120 or more by entering the promo code DOCTALK50 at checkout at Gdefy.com. Husker Hounds Speaking of the holidays, get the Cornhusker fan in your family the best Nebraska gear at Husker Hounds. There are two locations in the Omaha area, and you can find them online at HuskerHounds.com.  The Orr Law Group The legal process can be intimidating. Let the experts at Orr Law Group help you navigate the court system. They handle all types of litigation. Connor Orr and his team are compassionate and caring lawyers who provide a positive and experienced representation to their clients. Get more information from the Orr Law Group.  Centris Federal Credit Union For all your banking needs, turn to Centris Federal Credit Union, the official sponsor of the Doc's Diagnosis. Discover the benefits of membership at Centris Federal Credit Union, member NCUA.  Husker Max Husker Max provides the best Nebraska football and sports information. They distribute this podcast weekly and are the go-to source for all Husker news. 

After a bye week, the Huskers are back at it with another home game. Nebraska plays Michigan State this weekend. The series with the Spartans has been close in recent history. Dating back to 2014, five games have been decided by a total of 15 points.  Dr. Rob Zatechka and Travis Justice talk about the match-up and what the Huskers need to do to make Dr. Rob is a true believer that things are changing in Lincoln, physically, athletically, and mentally. Please support our sponsors: This podcast would not be possible without the generosity and support of our sponsors. Gdefy Shoes Like Gdefy Shoes and their patented Verso Shock technology, which offers absorption, body alignment, and a trampoline-like energy, Gdefy shoes are perfect for any activity. They offer a 60-day money-back guarantee, unmatched comfort, and two free orthotics. The holiday season is here, so save money by getting 50% off an order of $120 or more by entering the promo code DOCTALK50 at checkout at Gdefy.com. Husker Hounds Speaking of the holidays, get the Cornhusker fan in your family the best Nebraska gear at Husker Hounds. There are two locations in the Omaha area, and you can find them online at HuskerHounds.com.  The Orr Law Group The legal process can be intimidating. Let the experts at Orr Law Group help you navigate the court system. They handle all types of litigation. Connor Orr and his team are compassionate and caring lawyers who provide a positive and experienced representation to their clients. Get more information from the Orr Law Group.  Centris Federal Credit Union For all your banking needs, turn to Centris Federal Credit Union, the official sponsor of the Doc's Diagnosis. Discover the benefits of membership at Centris Federal Credit Union, member NCUA.  Husker Max Husker Max provides the best Nebraska football and sports information. They distribute this podcast weekly and are the go-to source for all Husker news.   

Nebraska drops another Big Ten opener, 30–27 to Michigan, and Travis Justice & Dr. Rob Zatechka break down why the score felt closer than the game. From seven sacks and goal-line woes to Michigan’s clear edge in speed and physicality, the guys zero in on the offensive tackles, short-yardage issues, and three explosive TD runs allowed. They also defend Dylan Raiola’s day (it wasn’t on the QB) and compare him to Bryce Underwood, separating arm talent, accuracy, and true dual-threat juice. With a bye week on deck, they outline what can actually be fixed now (OL personnel/scheme tweaks, tackling fits, protection help) and what’s a longer project. Then it’s a tour around college football: Indiana surges under Curt Cignetti, Wisconsin spirals (is Luke Fickell on the clock?), Florida’s brutal slate puts Billy Napier in peril, and why monster buyouts are warping the coaching carousel. Please support our sponsors: This podcast would not be possible without the generosity and support of our sponsors. Gdefy Shoes Like Gdefy Shoes and their patented VersoShock technology, which offers absorption, body alignment, and a trampoline-like energy, Gdefy shoes are perfect for any activity. They offer a 60-day money-back guarantee, unmatched comfort, and two free orthotics. The holiday season is here, so save money by getting 50% off an order of $120 or more by entering the promo code DOCTALK50 at checkout at Gdefy.com. Husker Hounds Speaking of the holidays, get the Cornhusker fan in your family the best Nebraska gear at Husker Hounds. There are two locations in the Omaha area, and you can find them online at HuskerHounds.com.  The Orr Law Group The legal process can be intimidating. Let the experts at Orr Law Group help you navigate the court system. They handle all types of litigation. Connor Orr and his team are compassionate and caring lawyers who provide a positive and experienced representation to their clients. Get more information from the Orr Law Group.  Centris Federal Credit Union For all your banking needs, turn to Centris Federal Credit Union, the official sponsor of the Doc's Diagnosis. Discover the benefits of membership at Centris Federal Credit Union, member NCUA.  Husker Max Husker Max provides the best Nebraska football and sports information. They distribute this podcast weekly and are the go-to source for all Husker news. 

Welcome to the Husker Doc Talk Podcast! This week, former Husker Dr. Rob Zatechka and Travis Justice break down Nebraska’s 59-point rout of Houston Christian. For the second week in a row, the Huskers cruised to victory and gave valuable reps to the backups. But the tune-up games are over—Big Ten Conference play begins, and Michigan is up next. The Wolverines bring star quarterback Bryce Underwood to Lincoln, and Dr. Rob lays out his keys to victory and the pitfalls Nebraska must avoid if they want to move to 4-0. It’s not all football this week. Travis and Dr. Rob also shift gears to boxing, where Omaha’s own Bud Crawford made history Saturday night with a unanimous decision win over Canelo Alvarez—further cementing his case as one of the greatest fighters of all time. Please support our sponsors: This podcast would not be possible without the generosity and support of our sponsors. Gdefy Shoes Like Gdefy Shoes and their patented VersoShock technology, which offers absorption, body alignment, and a trampoline-like energy, Gdefy shoes are perfect for any activity. They offer a 60-day money-back guarantee, unmatched comfort, and two free orthotics. The holiday season is here, so save money by getting 50% off an order of $120 or more by entering the promo code DOCTALK50 at checkout at Gdefy.com. Husker Hounds Speaking of the holidays, get the Cornhusker fan in your family the best Nebraska gear at Husker Hounds. There are two locations in the Omaha area, and you can find them online at HuskerHounds.com.  The Orr Law Group The legal process can be intimidating. Let the experts at Orr Law Group help you navigate the court system. They handle all types of litigation. Connor Orr and his team are compassionate and caring lawyers who provide a positive and experienced representation to their clients. Get more information from the Orr Law Group.  Centris Federal Credit Union For all your banking needs, turn to Centris Federal Credit Union, the official sponsor of the Doc's Diagnosis. Discover the benefits of membership at Centris Federal Credit Union, member NCUA.  Husker Max Husker Max provides the best Nebraska football and sports information. They distribute this podcast weekly and are the go-to source for all Husker news. 

Dr. Rob Zatechka and Travis Justice are back with another episode of the Husker Doc Talk Podcast. Nebraska dominated Akron in a 68–0 shutout, but as Dr. Rob reminds us, even near-perfect performances leave room for growth. The blowout gave the Huskers a valuable chance to get younger players much-needed game reps, a benefit that will pay off down the road. With another cupcake matchup on deck against Houston Christian, Travis and Dr. Rob shift gears to the broader landscape of college football. From early-season surprises to head coaches already feeling the heat, the guys break down who’s in trouble and why. It’s Husker football, national perspective, and plenty of Doc Talk honesty—tune in for the full breakdown. Please support our sponsors: This podcast would not be possible without the generosity and support of our sponsors. Gdefy Shoes Like Gdefy Shoes and their patented VersoShock technology, which offers absorption, body alignment, and a trampoline-like energy, Gdefy shoes are perfect for any activity. They offer a 60-day money-back guarantee, unmatched comfort, and two free orthotics. The holiday season is here, so save money by getting 50% off an order of $120 or more by entering the promo code DOCTALK50 at checkout at Gdefy.com. Husker Hounds Speaking of the holidays, get the Cornhusker fan in your family the best Nebraska gear at Husker Hounds. There are two locations in the Omaha area, and you can find them online at HuskerHounds.com.  The Orr Law Group The legal process can be intimidating. Let the experts at Orr Law Group help you navigate the court system. They handle all types of litigation. Connor Orr and his team are compassionate and caring lawyers who provide a positive and experienced representation to their clients. Get more information from the Orr Law Group.  Centris Federal Credit Union For all your banking needs, turn to Centris Federal Credit Union, the official sponsor of the Doc's Diagnosis. Discover the benefits of membership at Centris Federal Credit Union, member NCUA.  Husker Max Husker Max provides the best Nebraska football and sports information. They distribute this podcast weekly and are the go-to source for all Husker news. 

Welcome to the Husker Doc Talk Podcast with former Husker Dr. Rob Zatechka and Travis Justice. The Huskers are 1-0 after beating Cincinnati in the season opener. They are now getting ready for the first home game of the season against Akron. This should be an automatic win for Nebraska. The Zips lost their opening game of the season, 10-0, against Wyoming. Please support our sponsors: This podcast would not be possible without the generosity and support of our sponsors. Gdefy Shoes Like Gdefy Shoes and their patented VersoShock technology, which offers absorption, body alignment, and a trampoline-like energy, Gdefy shoes are perfect for any activity. They offer a 60-day money-back guarantee, unmatched comfort, and two free orthotics. The holiday season is here, so save money by getting 50% off an order of $120 or more by entering the promo code DOCTALK50 at checkout at Gdefy.com. Husker Hounds Speaking of the holidays, get the Cornhusker fan in your family the best Nebraska gear at Husker Hounds. There are two locations in the Omaha area, and you can find them online at HuskerHounds.com.  The Orr Law Group The legal process can be intimidating. Let the experts at Orr Law Group help you navigate the court system. They handle all types of litigation. Connor Orr and his team are compassionate and caring lawyers who provide a positive and experienced representation to their clients. Get more information from the Orr Law Group.  Centris Federal Credit Union For all your banking needs, turn to Centris Federal Credit Union, the official sponsor of the Doc's Diagnosis. Discover the benefits of membership at Centris Federal Credit Union, member NCUA.  Husker Max Husker Max provides the best Nebraska football and sports information. They distribute this podcast weekly and are the go-to source for all Husker news. 

It’s officially Game Week for Nebraska football! Travis Justice and Dr. Rob Zatechka dive deep into the season opener against Cincinnati at Arrowhead Stadium. From the scarlet-and-cream color debate (no, not crimson!) to breaking down the offensive line depth chart, the guys tackle the big questions Husker fans are asking: Can Nebraska’s O-line finally be the foundation of this team? Will Emmett Johnson carry the load at running back, or is the depth too thin? How quickly will new transfer receivers like Dane Key and Isaiah Hunter click with Dylan Raiola? Is this defense—especially the secondary and linebackers—ready to handle Cincinnati QB Brendan Soresby’s dual-threat ability? They also discuss: Early-season sloppiness across college football and how it might show up Thursday night. The expectations for Matt Rhule in Year 3—is nine wins enough, or is 10 the magic number? The chess match between the Big Ten and SEC over playoff expansion and scheduling. Road trip memories from the '90s and why neutral-site openers can be tricky. Life updates as both Travis and Rob officially step into “empty nester” mode. And don’t forget—immediately after the game Thursday night, Travis and Dr. Rob will go live on YouTube for postgame reaction, fan calls, and instant analysis. Make sure you hit that subscribe button and join the conversation! Please support our sponsors: This podcast would not be possible without the generosity and support of our sponsors. Gdefy Shoes Like Gdefy Shoes and their patented VersoShock technology, which offers absorption, body alignment, and a trampoline-like energy, Gdefy shoes are perfect for any activity. They offer a 60-day money-back guarantee, unmatched comfort, and two free orthotics. The holiday season is here, so save money by getting 50% off an order of $120 or more by entering the promo code DOCTALK50 at checkout at Gdefy.com. Husker Hounds Speaking of the holidays, get the Cornhusker fan in your family the best Nebraska gear at Husker Hounds. There are two locations in the Omaha area, and you can find them online at HuskerHounds.com.  The Orr Law Group The legal process can be intimidating. Let the experts at Orr Law Group help you navigate the court system. They handle all types of litigation. Connor Orr and his team are compassionate and caring lawyers who provide a positive and experienced representation to their clients. Get more information from the Orr Law Group.  Centris Federal Credit Union For all your banking needs, turn to Centris Federal Credit Union, the official sponsor of the Doc's Diagnosis. Discover the benefits of membership at Centris Federal Credit Union, member NCUA.  Husker Max Husker Max provides the best Nebraska football and sports information. They distribute this podcast weekly and are the go-to source for all Husker news. 

Welcome back, Husker fans! We appreciate your patience, and we’ve got good news—this is the first of our weekly podcasts all the way through the season. If you’re watching on YouTube, do us a favor: hit subscribe on the Doc Talk channel, give this video a like, and start leaving your comments. And don’t forget, you can follow Dr. Rob on X at @doctalksports, and make sure you check out our Facebook page as well. A lot has happened since our last episode—family updates, new studio, new shoes, even a brand-new grandbaby in the Justice family. But now it’s time to shift gears, because Husker football is almost here. Nebraska kicks things off in less than two weeks against Cincinnati at Arrowhead Stadium. That means we’re talking uniforms, playoff expansion, win totals, and what year three of the Matt Rhule era really looks like. And yes—we’ll go game by game and give you our predictions. Does Nebraska finally take that next step? Is nine wins enough, or do the Huskers need ten to call this season a success? Strap in—Travis Justice and Dr. Rob Zatechka are ready to break it all down, right now, on the Husker Doc Talk Podcast. Please support our sponsors: This podcast would not be possible without the generosity and support of our sponsors. Gdefy Shoes Like Gdefy Shoes and their patented VersoShock technology, which offers absorption, body alignment, and a trampoline-like energy, Gdefy shoes are perfect for any activity. They offer a 60-day money-back guarantee, unmatched comfort, and two free orthotics. The holiday season is here, so save money by getting 50% off an order of $120 or more by entering the promo code DOCTALK50 at checkout at Gdefy.com. Husker Hounds Speaking of the holidays, get the Cornhusker fan in your family the best Nebraska gear at Husker Hounds. There are two locations in the Omaha area, and you can find them online at HuskerHounds.com.  The Orr Law Group The legal process can be intimidating. Let the experts at Orr Law Group help you navigate the court system. They handle all types of litigation. Connor Orr and his team are compassionate and caring lawyers who provide a positive and experienced representation to their clients. Get more information from the Orr Law Group.  Centris Federal Credit Union For all your banking needs, turn to Centris Federal Credit Union, the official sponsor of the Doc's Diagnosis. Discover the benefits of membership at Centris Federal Credit Union, member NCUA.  Husker Max Husker Max provides the best Nebraska football and sports information. They distribute this podcast weekly and are the go-to source for all Husker news.