No. 14 Nebraska (9-3) vs.

No. 5 Arizona (11-1)

When: Tonight, 8

Where: San Diego

TV: ESPN

Line: Nebraska by 3

Series record: Tied 0-0-1

Outlook: With Bobby Newcombe still sidelined, Eric Crouch starts at QB for Nebraska. The return of I-back DeAngelo Evans from a tailbone injury should bolster the option offense. The defense boasts a number of strong players but is vulnerable against the pass. Arizona is enjoying the best season in school history. Keith Smith and Ortege Jenkins split time at QB, although Smith played more late in the season. TB Trung Canidate, a third-team All-American, has 1,220 yards rushing and 10 TDs, and Dennis Northcutt and Jeremy McDaniel are fine receivers.

Pub Date: 12/30/98