Lincoln, Neb. -- The ninth-ranked Nebraska wrestling team opened its dual schedule Saturday with wins over Augustana and Rider at the Bob Devaney Sports Center Track Area. NU defeated Division II ninth-ranked Augustana 36-9 and took down Eastern Wrestling League-power Rider, 26-16.

The Huskers were led on the day by strong performances from senior three-time All-American Bryan Snyder, sophomore 2001 Big 12 Champion Jason Powell and freshman fifth-ranked Travis Pascoe.

Snyder, who is ranked No. 1 at 157 pounds, won his first match of the day by technical fall over Seth Webster of Augustana, 23-8. In the nightcap, Snyder squared off against his first ranked opponent of the season, defeating 15th-ranked Derek Jenkins of Rider with a 13-4 major decision. The Easton, Pa., native is 7-0 on the season.

Powell, who is currently ranked fifth at 125 pounds, scored two falls en route to upping his record to 6-0 on the year. Against Augustana, Powell neeeded just 56 seconds to pin Kevin Sobolik, while against the Broncs, Powell showed Jerold Limongelli the lights in 1:29.

At 184 pounds, Pascoe continued to impress, scoring two technical falls on the day. It took Pascoe only 4:28 to put up a score of 23-8 against Augustana