LINCOLN, Neb. – The No. 5 Nebraska wrestling team delivered a commanding performance on Senior Day, securing a decisive 47-0 victory over Northwestern at the Devaney Center on Sunday, February 8, 2026. The Huskers swept all 10 weight classes, marking their largest margin of victory since a 47-0 win over Indiana in the 2020-21 season. This shutout win improves Nebraska’s overall record to 10-6 and their Considerable Ten record to 3-3.
The dominant display showcased the strength of the Nebraska wrestling program and provided a fitting send-off for its senior athletes. Six bonus-point victories, including five technical falls and a major decision, solidified the Huskers’ control throughout the dual meet. The victory comes after a challenging stretch for the team, which had previously faced three consecutive losses, and occurred on a day when many were also focused on Super Bowl Sunday.
The dual began at 125 pounds, where Kael Lauridsen secured an 11-6 decision over No. 24 Dedrick Navarro. Lauridsen built an early lead with a takedown and a three-point nearfall, ultimately sealing the bout with a late takedown. At 133 pounds, No. 10 Jacob Van Dee achieved his second technical fall of the season, defeating Luis Bazan with a score of 20-4, highlighted by multiple takedowns and a four-point nearfall.
Senior Brock Hardy, ranked No. 4 at 141 pounds, delivered a particularly impressive performance in his final home appearance, earning an 18-2 technical fall over No. 31 Billy DeKraker. Hardy controlled the match, limiting DeKraker to just two escapes even as recording four takedowns and two near falls. No. 19 Chance Lamer continued the momentum at 149 pounds, securing a 22-6 technical fall over August Hibler with seven takedowns in the first period alone.
Senior Recognition and Team Performance
The match was especially meaningful as it honored Nebraska’s senior wrestlers. Each of the three seniors who competed – Hardy, Lamer, and Silas Allred – won their final home bout by technical fall. Head coach Mark Manning also deployed senior Jagger Condomitti at 165 pounds, however, a Northwestern forfeit prevented him from competing in his final home match.
The Huskers’ success wasn’t limited to the senior class. The team demonstrated consistent dominance across all weight classes, recording 36 takedowns throughout the dual. The victory underscores the depth and talent within the Nebraska wrestling program.
Key Match Results
- 125: Kael Lauridsen (NEB) def. Dedrick Navarro (NW) – 11-6
- 133: Jacob Van Dee (NEB) def. Luis Bazan (NW) – 20-4 (Tech. Fall)
- 141: Brock Hardy (NEB) def. Billy DeKraker (NW) – 18-2 (Tech. Fall)
- 149: Chance Lamer (NEB) def. August Hibler (NW) – 22-6 (Tech. Fall)
Northwestern struggled to find any footing against the Huskers, ultimately being shut out in all 10 weight classes. The Wildcats’ record now stands at 3-7 overall and 1-6 in Big Ten competition. MSN Sports reported on the match, highlighting Nebraska’s comprehensive victory.
Looking ahead, the Nebraska wrestling team will continue its Big Ten schedule, aiming to build on this momentum and improve its standing in the conference. The Huskers will need to maintain this level of performance as they face increasingly competitive opponents in the weeks to come. The team’s performance on Senior Day serves as a strong foundation for the remainder of the season.
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