Illinois at Nebraska

Preview

Why You Should Clear Space on Your DVR: Nebraska has been a topic of conversation in the offseason, with many wondering if the program is trending down. The Huskers ended the 2020 season with their lowest ranking in 20 years. Three athletes, including all arounder Adnerys De Jesus, transferred to different universities. The team also graduated all arounder Taylor Houchin and three-eventer Sierra Hassel. Floor is a lineup to watch closely: only three 2020 routines return. Will their inexperienced athletes surprise us out of the gate or will other Big Ten teams like Illinois climb above them in the rankings? It’s a tall order for the Illini, who will be relying on a large number of underclassmen sets as well. 

You Can Fast Forward, but not Through This:

Mallory Mizuki’s college career has been plagued by injuries. The Illinois junior underwent two ACL tears, but has been featured on bars and beam in training. Mia Takekawa was an emerging star in her freshman year and scored the first 10.0 in history for Illinois on the balance beam in 2020. And don’t miss Mia Townes on vault; she may be debuting Illinois’ first 10.0 start value since the rule change. Nebraska freshman Kinsey Davis has a Hindorff in her bar routine that can add some difficulty to the team’s rotation. Classmate Chloe Lorange could bring a much needed dynamic floor set to the Nebraska lineup with her dance and tumbling skills.