Husker Doc Talk

This is the Husker Doc Talk Podcast — 2025, Episode 16 — with Travis Justice and Dr. Rob Zatechka. If you’re watching on YouTube, smash that subscribe button and ring the bell so new episodes land right away. Listening on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or anywhere else? Tap “Follow” so we’re always in your queue, and leave a quick review to help more Husker fans find the show. This week, we start with the Saturday night roller coaster in Lincoln. Nebraska had USC on the ropes at halftime, and Travis was ready to declare it Matt Rhule’s signature win… until the second half flipped. We dig into the turning points: Dylan Raiola’s third-quarter exit, why Nebraska’s run fits unraveled, and how a defense that held USC to 337 total yards still surrendered the game on the ground. Dr. Rob walks through the trenches: the interior getting knocked back, contain issues on the edge, and what that means in a Big Ten built on downhill football. Quarterback talk is unavoidable. Raiola isn’t the problem — but does TJ Lateef’s mobili

Nebraska 28, Northwestern 21. The Huskers are now bowl eligible for the second year in a row and improve to 6-2 on the season and 3-2 in the Big 10 Conference.  Dr. Rob Zatechka and Travis Justice discuss the win in the latest edition of Husker Doc Talk Podcast. Nebraska scored 14 of its 28 points off Northwestern turnovers. The Huskers also get a kickoff return for a touchdown. Despite rushing for 155 yards, including 124 from Emmett Johnson, Dr. Rob still sees some problems with the offensive line.  Speaking of Johnson, Dr. Rob and Travis think he's the best running back in the Big 10 Conference. His numbers back up the opinion, but it also shows how much Nebraska needs him if the Huskers want to keep winning.  Additionally, Northwestern rushed for 172 yards, indicating some holes and deficiencies in the Nebraska interior front.  Up next is USC. The Trojans did not play this past weekend. According to ESPN's game predictor, USC has a 72% chance of winning. Please support our sponsors: This podcast would not

Minnesota 24, Nebraska 6—and it felt worse. Travis Justice and Dr. Rob Zatechka break down a Friday-night flop that saw nine sacks, a sputtering run game, and a defense bullied on a 98-yard, 8:43 drive to open the second half. Is Nebraska’s offensive line development the program’s biggest long-term problem? What’s fair criticism of Donovan Raiola after five seasons? And where do Matt Rhule and his coordinators fit in when halftime adjustments don’t show up? They also look ahead to Northwestern—now quietly 5–2—discuss why the Wildcats’ ball-control blueprint is Nebraska’s worst nightmare, and explain why the Huskers’ margin for error remains razor thin heading into the season’s final five games. 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

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 gene

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

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 hol

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 Li

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 trampolin

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. T

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 tw

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

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

After a long break, Travis Justice and Dr. Rob Zatechka return to break down all the drama heating up Husker Nation. Scott Frost made headlines at Big 12 Media Days with controversial comments about his time at Nebraska, and Husker fans aren’t happy. Are their frustrations fair, or are emotions running too high? Plus, the House Settlement is reshaping the college athletics landscape. How is Nebraska adapting, and what does it mean for the future of Husker sports? It's a new era, same real talk — welcome back to 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 ente

Welcome back to the Husker Doc Talk Podcast. On this episode, Travis Justice and Doctor Rob Zatechka welcome former Husker great Adam Carriker in the studio. Lots of college football talk in this episode from the possibility of a spring practice against another team to the restructuring of the college football playoff.  Adam is no one to shy away from a strong opinion and this conversation is a must listen all the way through. 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 absorption, body alignment, and 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 fami

In this episode of the Doc Talk Podcast, Dr. Rob Zatechka and Travis Justice break down Nebraska’s decision to cancel its highly anticipated home-and-home series with Tennessee. It's a move that financially makes sense for the program but cheats the fans out of a showdown with a big-name program.  The Huskers are also scrapping the 2025 Spring Game. Nebraska won’t hold its annual fan showcase—marking the end of a tradition that regularly draws over 60,000 fans. What does this mean for recruiting, fan engagement, and the program's overall direction? Rob and Travis give their unfiltered thoughts on both decisions, what it says about Matt Rhule’s long-term plan, and why some fans are growing frustrated with the program's cautious approach. Hit play, share your thoughts, and don’t forget to subscribe for more hard-hitting Huskers talk on the 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 p

The offseason has arrived, and with it, the Husker Doc Talk Podcast shifts into an interview-focused format. Kicking off the first episode of 2025, we sit down with former Nebraska All-American Keyuo Craver. Now living in Omaha, Keyuo works as a recruiting specialist at Metro Community College. While he typically stays under the radar, he takes center stage on this podcast, opening up about his experiences at Nebraska, his time in the NFL, and his career in the Canadian Football League. He also reflects on his first book, I Peed and Forgot, and teases his upcoming book, which delves into his years as a Husker. Raw, honest, and deeply personal—this episode of the Husker Doc Talk Podcast has it all. 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 absorption, body alignment, and trampoline-like energy, Gdefy shoes are perfect for any activity. They offer a 60-day money-back gu

On this edition of the Husker Doc Talk Podcast, Travis Justice and Dr. Rob Zatechka delve into the action-packed first round of the college football playoffs. While the initial four games didn’t quite deliver the edge-of-your-seat drama fans might have hoped for, they still offered plenty of excitement. The games highlighted the unique energy that comes with home-field advantage, which created electric atmospheres in every matchup. This, in turn, made a compelling case for playoff expansion, raising questions about how the format could evolve to include even more teams and intensify the competition in future seasons. The conversation then shifts focus to Nebraska’s upcoming bowl game as the Huskers gear up for the Pinstripe Bowl against Boston College. Travis and Dr. Rob dive deep into the matchup, analyzing how the Huskers stack up against BC. They examine Nebraska’s strengths and weaknesses, the challenges posed by Boston College, and the potential strategies the Huskers might employ to secure a victory. Wi

Episode 38 of the Husker Doc Talk Podcast dives into a packed agenda, highlighting some of the biggest headlines in Nebraska football and the broader college football landscape. Travis Justice and Dr. Rob Zatechka kick things off by dissecting Nebraska’s decision to promote John Butler to Defensive Coordinator. They analyze what this move means for the program, the defense's future direction, and Butler’s potential to elevate the Blackshirts in the ever-competitive Big Ten. Next, they tackle the Transfer Portal frenzy, exploring its implications for Nebraska and how the Huskers can strategically navigate this new era of college football. With the 2025 Nebraska football schedule recently announced, Travis and Dr. Rob offer their insights on key matchups, challenges ahead, and how the team is shaping up for the seasons to come. But the conversation doesn’t stop in Lincoln. The duo focuses on the somewhat shocking news of Bill Belichick’s move to North Carolina, discussing how his NFL expertise might translate t

In this engaging episode of the Husker Doc Talk Podcast, hosts Travis Justice and Dr. Rob Zatechka dive into a packed agenda of college sports headlines, focusing on the latest developments in Nebraska athletics and beyond. The show kicks off with an in-depth discussion about the inaugural 12-team college football playoff. Travis and Dr. Rob analyze the teams in the field, offering insights into how the expanded playoff format might shape the future of college football.  The conversation then shifts to Nebraska football as the Huskers prepare for their upcoming Pinstripe Bowl game. Travis and Dr. Rob discuss how the team is gearing up for this postseason opportunity and delve into the transfer portal's significant impact on the program. They explore how the portal is reshaping the roster, not just for the bowl game but for the upcoming 2025 season, analyzing the potential losses, gains, and strategic adjustments Nebraska might face as a result.  Travis and Dr. Rob also discuss former Nebraska head coach Scott

Statistically, Nebraska dominated Iowa. However, as we found out on Black Friday, the final score is the only thing that matters: Iowa 13, Nebraska 10.  In this edition of the Husker Doc Talk Podcast, Dr. Rob Zatechka discusses the mental side of the game, which is just as important as the physical part. Dr. Rob discusses with Travis Justice that the pregame handshake, or lack thereof, indicated that the Huskers were not ready for the little things it takes to win a game. Did the mind games before the game play a part in the final outcome? There's no way to prove it, but there's no way to disprove it either.  Last Friday's Nebraska and Iowa game was just an appetizer in a wild weekend of rivalry week. The Huskers now wait to see who they will play in a bowl game while Penn State and Oregon battle for the Big 10 Championship, and we wait for the official college football playoff bracket to be set.  Please support our sponsors: This podcast would not be possible without the generosity and support of our sponsor