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Nevada Football travels to Nebraska in 2029

Nevada Football Set to Face Nebraska in Historic 2029 Road Trip

RENO, Nev. (KOLO) – In a move that promises to add a thrilling chapter to the Nevada Wolf Pack's future schedules, the University of Nevada athletics department has announced an exciting non-conference matchup against the University of Nebraska Cornhuskers. The game is slated for 2029, with Nevada traveling to the iconic Memorial Stadium in Lincoln, Nebraska, marking a rare intersection between the Mountain West Conference and the Big Ten powerhouse.

This scheduling agreement, revealed through official university channels, underscores Nevada's ambition to challenge itself against top-tier programs from major conferences. While the exact date in 2029 has yet to be finalized—likely falling in the early-season non-conference window—the matchup is already generating buzz among fans and analysts alike. For the Wolf Pack, this represents an opportunity to test their mettle on one of college football's grandest stages, where over 90,000 fans routinely pack the stands, creating an electric atmosphere known as the "Sea of Red."

The roots of this game trace back to ongoing efforts by Nevada's athletic director, Stephanie Rempe, who has been proactive in bolstering the program's national profile. Rempe, who took the helm in 2022, has emphasized building competitive schedules that not only prepare the team for conference play but also attract recruits by showcasing high-profile opponents. "We're thrilled to add Nebraska to our future slate," Rempe stated in a press release. "This game will provide our student-athletes with an invaluable experience against a storied program, and it's a testament to the growth of Nevada football."

On the other side, Nebraska, under the leadership of athletic director Trev Alberts, continues to fill its non-conference slots with diverse opponents to maintain a balanced yet challenging lineup. The Cornhuskers, a program with a rich history including five national championships and legendary coaches like Tom Osborne, have been navigating a transitional period in the Big Ten. This game against Nevada fits into their strategy of scheduling games that offer variety while ensuring home-field advantages in Lincoln.

Historically, Nevada and Nebraska have crossed paths only once before, back in 1996, when the Cornhuskers dominated with a 54-27 victory in Lincoln. That encounter was during Nebraska's dominant era under Osborne, as they were en route to back-to-back national titles. For Nevada, then a member of the Big West Conference, it was a learning experience against elite competition. Fast forward to 2029, and the landscape has evolved significantly. Nevada has since joined the Mountain West, producing NFL talents like quarterback Colin Kaepernick and establishing itself as a competitive force in the Group of Five conferences. Meanwhile, Nebraska has faced ups and downs since joining the Big Ten in 2011, with recent coaching changes under Matt Rhule aiming to restore the program's glory.

The 2029 game holds particular significance for Nevada as it continues to build on recent successes. Under head coach Jeff Choate, who was hired in 2023, the Wolf Pack have shown promise with a focus on a hard-nosed defensive style and a dynamic offense. Choate, with his background at Montana State and Texas, brings a blue-collar mentality that could make Nevada a tough out for any opponent. "Playing in a venue like Memorial Stadium is what college football is all about," Choate commented. "It's a chance for our guys to prove they belong on the big stage and create memories that last a lifetime."

From a strategic standpoint, this road trip aligns with Nevada's broader scheduling philosophy. The Wolf Pack have increasingly sought out Power Five opponents to enhance their resume and potentially boost their chances in the expanded College Football Playoff format. In recent years, Nevada has faced teams like California, Kansas State, and Iowa, using these games to gain exposure and experience. The Nebraska matchup extends this trend into the next decade, providing continuity as college football undergoes seismic shifts with conference realignments and playoff expansions.

For fans, the announcement sparks excitement about potential travel opportunities and the allure of witnessing their team in a hostile, high-stakes environment. Memorial Stadium, often called the "third-largest city in Nebraska" on game days due to its massive attendance, offers a unique spectacle. Nevada supporters might recall the program's memorable upset wins, like the 2010 victory over Boise State or the thrilling overtime triumph against Purdue in 2019, as blueprints for what could be an underdog story in 2029.

Beyond the field, this game could have economic and branding implications. For Nevada, a smaller program in terms of budget and resources compared to Nebraska, securing such a guarantee game often comes with financial incentives—typically a payout to the visiting team to help fund operations. While specifics of the contract weren't disclosed, these arrangements are common and help level the playing field for Group of Five schools. Additionally, the exposure on national television, possibly through Big Ten broadcasting partners like FOX or CBS, could elevate Nevada's visibility, aiding in recruiting efforts across the West Coast and beyond.

Looking ahead, this 2029 clash is part of a larger puzzle for both programs. Nevada's future non-conference schedules already include intriguing games against teams like SMU and Troy, setting the stage for competitive early-season tests. Nebraska, meanwhile, maintains a tradition of scheduling a mix of regional rivals and out-of-conference foes to keep their fanbase engaged. As the sport evolves with NIL deals, transfer portals, and potential revenue-sharing models, games like this remind us of the enduring appeal of cross-conference rivalries.

In the broader context of college football, matchups between Mountain West and Big Ten teams are relatively rare but always compelling. They highlight the diversity of the sport, from the high-altitude challenges of Reno's Mackay Stadium to the flatland intensity of Lincoln. For Nevada, this game isn't just about the scoreboard—it's about building a program that aspires to more than conference titles. It's about inspiring the next generation of Wolf Pack players who dream of competing against the best.

As details continue to emerge, including the precise date and any potential return game (though none has been announced), the anticipation will only build. For now, Nevada football enthusiasts can mark their calendars for a 2029 pilgrimage to Nebraska, where the Wolf Pack will aim to make history in the heart of Cornhusker country. This announcement not only enriches the team's future but also reinforces the timeless excitement of college football's ever-expanding horizons.

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Read the Full KOLO TV Article at:
[ https://www.kolotv.com/2025/08/11/nevada-football-travels-nebraska-2029/ ]