The No. 6 Nebraska wrestling team secured a 20-12 victory over No. 9 Minnesota Friday night, fueled by a crucial pin from Antrell Taylor that shifted the momentum in Lincoln.
A Back-and-Forth Contest
The dual meet began with a setback for the Huskers, as Alan Koehler fell in a 4-1 decision to Jore Volk at 125 pounds. Nebraska quickly responded at 133 pounds, where Jacob Van Dee extended his dual win streak to nine matches with a 1-0 decision.
A mid-match substitution saw true freshman Jake Hockaday step in at 141 pounds, giving Brock Hardy a rest. Despite a strong effort, Hockaday was defeated 7-2 by Vance VomBaur. Minnesota extended their lead to 9-3 after Nikade Zinkin lost a 6-3 decision at 149 pounds to Drew Roberts.
Key Moment: Taylor’s Pin
Trailing 9-3, the Huskers needed a spark, and Antrell Taylor delivered. Facing Charlie Millard at 157 pounds, Taylor secured a pin in the final seconds of the match, tying the team score at 9-9. This dramatic turn of events proved pivotal for Nebraska.
Following the intermission, No. 8 LJ Araujo continued the Huskers’ momentum with a 9-2 decision over Andrew Sparks. Christopher Minto then added to the lead, earning an 11-4 victory against Ethan Riddle.
At 184 pounds, Silas Allred faced Max McEnelly for the second time in their careers, ultimately falling in a 4-1 decision after sudden victory. Despite the loss, Nebraska maintained a narrow lead. Camden McDanel then sealed the victory for the Huskers with a 7-2 decision over Gavin Nelson, and AJ Ferrari closed out the night with a 2-1 decision against Koy Hopke.
However, the final team score was adjusted to 20-12 due to a one-point penalty assessed for unsportsmanlike conduct.
Expert Insight:
The Huskers will return to the Devaney Center to host No. 4 Iowa on Friday, Jan. 23, at 8 p.m. (CT), with the match televised on BTN.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the Nebraska vs. Minnesota wrestling dual?
The final score was Nebraska 20, Minnesota 12, after a one-point penalty was assessed to Nebraska for unsportsmanlike conduct.
Who secured the pivotal win for Nebraska?
Antrell Taylor secured a pin against Charlie Millard at 157 pounds, tying the team score and shifting the momentum in Nebraska’s favor.
When and where is Nebraska’s next wrestling match?
Nebraska will host No. 4 Iowa at the Devaney Center on Friday, Jan. 23, at 8 p.m. (CT). The match will be televised on BTN.
What do you think was the most important factor in Nebraska’s victory against Minnesota?
