Nebraska Wrestling’s Strong Start to 2026

Coming off a heartbreaking 22-12 loss to No. 5 Oklahoma State on Dec. 21, the No. 6 Nebraska wrestling team (7-3) delivered a strong performance against No. 16 Northern Iowa (3-4), winning 30-6 in their first dual of the New Year. The Huskers dominated eight of their 10 matches at the Bob Devaney Sports Center, showcasing their offensive potential before the start of Big Ten duals next week.

Offensive Explosion

Nebraska’s offense had a significant turnaround compared to their previous match, where they only landed three takedowns. This time, the team displayed an aggressive approach, securing a total of 20 takedowns. Defending national champion Antrell Taylor (157) led the way with seven takedowns in his 22-6 technical fall victory over RJ Weston. Four of those takedowns came in the third period, marking a major improvement for the junior All-American.

Head coach Mark Manning praised the team’s mental approach and confidence in their attacks. “Our guys just bought in a little bit more to the pace we want to wrestle, and just confidence in their attacks,” he said. “This game is a mental game when you get out there. It’s like Harley Andrews at the end. He ended up getting a major decision, which was really great…”

Lamer Shines; Minto Earns Another Top-10 Win

After losing his debut match 7-2, senior transfer Chance Lamer (149) made a strong statement by dominating Ethan Basile with five takedowns in a 19-4 technical fall. Lamer improved to 9-1 on the season and expressed how the loss motivated him to work harder in practice.

Meanwhile, Christopher Minto (174) continued his strong season by defeating No. 10 Jared Simma with a 10-1 major decision. The sophomore All-American credited his success to buying into the team’s process. “I would say just buying into our process,” Minto said. “This whole week, we were talking about putting more points on the board.”

Koehler Battles, but 125 Remains Open

The 125-pound division remained a competitive battle as Alan Koehler faced off against Trever Anderson. Although Koehler took an early lead with a reversal, Anderson managed to secure a 5-2 decision. Coach Manning praised Koehler’s effort, noting that the competition between Koehler and Kael Lauridsen remains open.

Other Results

• Jacob Van Dee (133) shut out Julian Farber in a 5-0 decision, improving to 10-1 on the season.
• Brock Hardy (141) bounced back from a recent loss to defeat Cory Land in a 5-1 decision.
• LJ Araujo (165) fell to Ryder Downey in a heartbreaker 3-0 in sudden victory.
• Silas Allred (184) picked up his 10th win of the season with a 5-1 decision over Nick Fox.
• Camden McDanel (197) secured a 7-3 decision over John Gunderson.
• Harley Andrews (HWT) defeated Adam Ahrendsen with an impressive 16-4 major decision.

Looking Ahead

Nebraska will return to action on Friday, Jan. 9, against Purdue at the Devaney Center. The match will be available on B1G+. AJ Ferrari, currently ranked No. 4 at heavyweight, is expected to return soon after recovering from a toe injury. “He’s not ready to go yet. He’s not had enough training,” Manning said. “We got some treatment, and hopefully, we’ll have him back next Friday.”