In a recent interview with HuskerOnline, Nebraska Athletic Director Troy Dannen discussed several topics, including the cancellation of the home-and-home football series with Tennessee, possible changes to the Huskers’ spring game, upcoming modifications to the Memorial Stadium turf, and more. Here are some key points:
Tennessee has opted not to reschedule its 2027 game in Knoxville against Nebraska. The Huskers sought an additional home game in 2027 to help mitigate the financial impact of reduced seating capacity during the South Stadium renovation. Dannen explained, “We approached Tennessee and asked if they would be willing to postpone it again. We had accommodated their request last time so they could play at the racetrack (the 2016 Battle at Bristol), but they weren’t able to push it back for us, which I understand—no hard feelings.”
In just the first week, 50,000 tickets were sold for the Huskers’ 2025 season opener against Cincinnati at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City. Dannen stated, “I don’t expect there will be any tickets left by the time that game kicks off… It’s going to feel like a home game in Kansas City. The early sales numbers were exceptional, and I haven’t checked in the last few weeks for updates.”
The end zones at Memorial Stadium will feature red coloring, similar to the design at the Hawks practice facility. Dannen remarked, “It’s a strong color, and when we add the black letters in the end zones, it creates an impressive look.” He emphasized that red is underutilized and suggested, “We should illuminate the stadium in red at night. It’s an intimidating color, and we should incorporate it more frequently. I’m not just talking about uniforms; I even told the governor that the road signs off I-80 directing to the stadium should be red instead of green or blue.”
There seems to be no immediate plans for a scheduling alliance between the Big Ten and Southeastern conferences. Dannen shared, “We just came from meetings in New Orleans with the SEC, and that topic wasn’t discussed. I suspect it might come up in the future, but it’s not something that’s currently on the table.”
As for the spring game, Dannen suggested it might take inspiration from the revamped Pro Bowl. He noted, “We might see skills competitions, much like what we observed in the Pro Bowl this year. It was enjoyable to see players without their helmets and get a glimpse of their personalities while having fun. I think that’s the direction we’re heading.” He also mentioned that women’s flag football could be included in the day’s events on April 26
Hit the play button below to watch the full interview.
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