'Full circle': Rhule excited for return to New York for Pinstripe Bowl
NEW YORK CITY, NY. - Nebraska is set to play in their first bowl game since 2016 on Dec. 28 when they face off with Boston College in the Bad Boy Mowers Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium.
Nebraska Head Coach Matt Rhule grew up in New York and says the return to the city that remains close to his heart, is a full circle moment.
"Some of the best moments of my young life, growing up were in the city, taking the train to see a Yankees game," Rhule said. "Since this game first came to fruition, I've always wanted this opportunity. Everything comes full circle. We're excited, we're excited for our fans."
Nebraska has six active players on the current roster who are from the New York and New Jersey metro area. The Huskers take on Bill O'Brien and the Eagles of Boston College who enter with a record of 7-5. For O'Brien, it's not the first time he's seen the Big Red.
"Playing the University of Nebraska is an honor," O'Brien said. "When I was at Penn State we played them at Nebraska and at Happy Valley, played two very tough games, didn't win either one, but that's what Nebraska Football is and Coach Rhule's carried that on. They're very tough and very physical and I'm sure that's what we can expect."
University of Nebraska Athletic Director Troy Dannen said on a Tuesday teleconference that Nebraska's already sold over 3,000 tickets to donors.
Bowl game festivities for both Nebraska and Boston College include visits to the Radio City Music Hall and the 9/11 Memorial, ringing the bell at the New York Stock Exchange and a boat cruise.
The Pinstripe Bowl kicks off at 11:00 a.m. CT on Dec. 28 on ABC.