LINCOLN — The era of the stationary quarterback is over in Lincoln. As Nebraska crosses the midpoint of spring practice, Offensive Coordinator Dana Holgorsen is making one thing clear: his second year at the helm will be defined by mobility, improvisation, and a relentless push for more than the 28.7 points per game averaged last season.
The Colandrea Factor
All eyes are on the quarterback room, where UNLV transfer Anthony Colandrea is changing the geometry of the Husker offense. Holgorsen admitted he has «never had that mobile of a quarterback,» praising Colandrea’s rare ability to extend plays when the initial read breaks down. His presence has forced returners TJ Lateef and Daniel Kaelin to elevate their game, creating a room where the ability to escape the pocket is now a requirement, not a luxury.
Fixing the «Lazy» Routes
A major point of emphasis this spring has been the behavior of wide receivers during scramble drills. Holgorsen was blunt about last year’s failings, noting that pass-catchers often got «lazy» once a play went off-script. This year, with Colandrea and a mobile Kaelin keeping plays alive, targets like Jacory Barney and Nyziah Hunter are being drilled to find open space long after the whistle should have blown. The goal? Turning broken plays into Red Zone touchdowns.
Searching for a Workhorse
While the passing game looks «ahead of schedule,» the backfield remains a work in progress. With the departure of Emmett Johnson, the trio of Quinten Ives, Isaiah Mozee, and the explosive Mekhi Nelson are battling for carries. Holgorsen has yet to decide if he will lean on a single «workhorse» or utilize a committee, but he is demanding more from the downhill run game to balance the flashy new aerial attack.
The Foundation
Everything rests on the shoulders of the «big boys» up front. Led by center Justin Evans, the offensive line is tasked with slashing the 33 sacks allowed in 2025. With Geep Wade providing a new spark for the unit, the protection looks smoother, giving Holgorsen confidence that by the time August rolls around, this will be a fundamentally different—and much more dangerous—Nebraska team.