Matt Rhule is definitely feeling the heat on the 2026 recruiting trail as Nebraska struggles to keep pace. As it is, Rhule’s 2026 class ranks near the bottom in the Big Ten and only 63rd nationally with 11 commits as per On3. Fans and analysts note Nebraska’s more laid-back approach towards in-state recruits this year, leading to hurt feelings. For example, Nebraska missed out on top in-state prospects like Millard South’s Jett Thomalla to Alabama without even offering him a spot. But this time the trouble is something else.

The Nebraska HC didn’t leave any stones unturned in the recruiting of Defensive Lineman Damaad Lewis. But now Lewis is booking a visit to Tallahassee during Florida State’s clash against Wake Forest. Lewis is a 6-foot-4, 235-pound defensive end from Myers Park High School in Charlotte, North Carolina. His stature makes him a hot commodity, snagging offers from Nebraska, Florida State, USC, Texas, Texas A&M, and NC State. But among all these, Nebraska and FSU remain his top two college destinations.

Lewis already had a visit to Lincoln last weekend, on October 25th. It was good timing because Nebraska won over Northwestern with a 28-21 final score. And now Florida State is playing the same trick by inviting Lewis to their supposed takeover against Wake Forest on November 2nd. “FSU excites me because of the tradition, the culture, and how they develop players at a high level,” Lewis has said. “I feel like they fit in with what I’m looking for.” Lewis’ stats tell a compelling story with 28 total tackles with 3 sacks, and a staggering 14 quarterback hurries.

And, compared to national averages, Damaad’s 3.5 tackles per game and 0.4 sacks per game show his consistent impact and relentless motor on the field. His knack for pressuring the QB is one of his key strengths. This pressure has been a major factor in big wins for Myers Park. Like in the dominant 58-0 victory over Garinger and the solid 42-0 shutout of West Mecklenburg. On top of that, Damaad carries an NFL connection. His older brother, Damien Lewis, is currently an offensive lineman in the NFL, playing for the Carolina Panthers.

Will FSU be able to beat Wake Forest?

FSU isn’t just hosting Damaad Lewis for the game against Wake Forest. The Seminoles are also getting Langston Hughes (Ga.) running back and FIU commit Qwantavius Wiggins back for his second game this fall. Wiggins had a huge senior season with 680 yards and 12 touchdowns. The Noles are also hosting Arkansas safety commit Daylen Green.

With all these commits sitting in the stands, FSU needs to get its best game out. Seminoles come in nursing a painful four-game losing streak, unable so far to crack the ACC win column this year. On the other side, Wake Forest is riding high after a three-game winning streak. However, FSU enters as a roughly 9.5-point favorite, and the home-field advantage creates a massive edge.

But if you look under the hood, this game is far from a sure thing. The Seminoles have struggled mightily with penalties and turnovers. That’s why some pundits are picking against Florida State for the first time in weeks. But then there’s another silver lining, with FSU coming off a bye week. This game could serve as a crucial reset button for Mike Norvell’s squad.