As much as the Huskers need a win, as cathartic as it might be to a fan base if Nebraska were able to play the spoiler and upend No. 7 Michigan State on Saturday night, it's the action away from the cameras that may ultimately be as important in Mike Riley's building project.
The recruiting action.
Even as news came Thursday that Nebraska would not receive visits this weekend from the Keyshawn crew out of Calabasas, California, the Huskers are still prepared for a significant recruiting weekend.
"They're both super-important," Riley said of balancing his duties for a big game with a big recruiting weekend.