The Dylan Raiola era is officially in the rearview mirror, and the Anthony Colandrea era has arrived in Lincoln with a thunderous roar. But as the 2026 season approaches, one question has the Husker Nation locked in a fierce debate: Is Colandrea the poised veteran leader who will finally take Nebraska to the next level, or is his high-risk style a recipe for disaster in the brutal Big Ten?
Coming off a successful stint at UNLV, Colandrea brings something Nebraska has lacked for years—unapologetic confidence and elite mobility. While Raiola was the «pro-style» prodigy, Colandrea is a «creator» who can turn a broken play into a 40-yard touchdown. However, that same «gunslinger» mentality often comes with a price.
The «Geep Wade» Safety Net
The good news for Colandrea is that he won’t be doing it alone. The «Geep Wade Effect» has reportedly turned the Nebraska offensive line into a dominant «Great Wall,» featuring SEC-level talent like Tree Babalade. For the first time in years, a Nebraska QB might actually have the pocket protection needed to make sound decisions.
Matt Rhule is betting big on Colandrea’s experience to navigate a 2026 schedule described as a «gauntlet.» If Colandrea can channel his energy without the turnovers, Nebraska could be the most dangerous «dark horse» in the country. But if the improvisational play leads to costly mistakes, the intrigue in Lincoln could quickly turn into frustration.