How did Nebraska get into the 2002 rose bowl?

Answer 1

Prior to the 2006 season, the BCS Championship Game was played as either the Cotton Bowl, Rose Bowl, Fiesta Bowl, or Orange Bowl instead of its own separate game. The 2002 Rose Bowl was designated as the BCS Championship Game for the 2001 season, therefore, the top two ranked teams in the nation were slotted to play regardless of whether they came from the Big 10 or PAC 10. Nebraska lost to Miami, 37-14, in the 2002 Rose Bowl.

Answer 2

As of the 2008 season, Nebraska has played in two Rose Bowls: 1941 - Stanford 21, Nebraska 13

2002 - Miami 37, Nebraska 14