Nebraska volleyball rallies from first-set loss to defeat Michigan State 3-1
Nebraska overcame a first-set loss to defeat No. 25 Michigan State 3-1 (21-25, 25-19, 25-17, 25-12) on October 17, 2026, at the Bob Devaney Sports Center, according to dailynebraskan.com. The Huskers, ranked No. 1 nationally.
First set proves challenging
Michigan State took an early lead in the opening set, capitalizing on Nebraska errors to build a 11-9 advantage. The Spartans, entering the game with a 17-4 record, tied the score five times in the first 10 points before pulling ahead for good. Junior setter Malayah Long’s ace gave Michigan State a 20-17 edge, its largest lead of the match, as the Spartans closed the set 25-21. Nebraska committed nine errors in the first set, hitting .259.
Huskers regroup, dominate second and third sets
Nebraska responded with a 9-3 run in the second set, fueled by senior setter Bergan Reilly’s block and block assist. The Spartans narrowed the gap to 18-17 but couldn’t sustain momentum. A 5-1 Husker surge, highlighted by middle blocker Manaia Ogbechie’s two kills and a block, secured the set 25-18. The third set saw Nebraska outperform Michigan State, hitting .452 and recording 11 digs in the frame. A 5-1 run, capped by sophomore Ryan Hunter’s two kills, sealed the 25-17 win.
Fourth set showcases Huskers’ dominance
Nebraska’s fourth-set dominance highlighted its national ranking, with a 14-6 lead after a 5-1 scoring stretch. Reserve outside hitter Skyler Pierce contributed two kills and an ace as the Huskers closed the set 25-12. Senior Andi Jackson and Harper Murray led Nebraska with 12 kills each, while Ogbechie posted 11 kills at a .786 hitting percentage. The team out-hit Michigan State .340 to .093, despite committing 16 total errors.
Upcoming schedule includes Pacific Northwest tests
Nebraska will face Oregon on November 7 and Washington on November 8, with the Washington match set to air on FS1. The Huskers’ next game against Oregon is scheduled for 9:00 p.m. CT, according to dailynebraskan.com.
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