There were 5 minutes left when Grant fumbled. Let's say NU drive stalls and we miss a field goal. Minnesota gets the ball back with 3 minutes left (I base that on the time 3 play drives took in the game summary). After the fumble, Minnesota drove 53 yds for the TD in 2:21. That still gives them +/- :40 secs if they needed or if Rhule punted. Just saying it isn't that hard to imagine a scenario to lose without the fumble.
The fumble was significant, and I do think we win if it doesn't happen, but I am surer the fumble wouldn't have cost us the game if Giff makes the pick.
By the way, imo Giff missing the pick didn't cost us the game either. It was an accumulation of things that Nebraska still does that led to the loss. Piper false start, three picks, 1 fumble etc. etc.
It was the curse!
Actually I agree with your assessment. No one individual or play cost us the game.