LINCOLN, Neb. — As the college football season opener approaches this Saturday against Ohio University, expectations surrounding the Nebraska Cornhuskers are running high. However, hanging in the air are the famous words of former Philadelphia Eagles head coach Andy Reid, who often warned media not to get enamored with «workout warriors»: it is easy to look great in summer practices wearing shorts, but the real test comes when the «live bullets are flying» on the gridiron.
Following a 7-6 finish in 2025 that left a sour taste in November, head coach Matt Rhule made significant structural changes without tearing down the program’s foundation, aiming directly at fixing the team’s most glaring weaknesses.
Key Offseason Moves and On-Field Questions
- Offensive Overhaul:
- Offensive Line: After struggling on the line last year, Nebraska brought in three Power 4 transfers, alongside tackle Gunnar Gottula making major strides coming off an injury.
- New Quarterback: Anthony Colandrea transferred in from UNLV (reigning Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year) to replace Dylan Raiola, who suffered a fractured fibula in November and subsequently transferred to Oregon. Colandrea brings mobility, a big arm, and playmaking ability, though he must adjust to the increased physicality and minimize risky turnovers in the Big Ten.
- Receivers & Running Backs: Jacory Barney Jr., Nyziah Hunter, and a deep receiving corps promise to be a strength for the offense. Meanwhile, the running back room seeks to replace Emmett Johnson, who made the leap to the NFL with the Kansas City Chiefs.
- Defensive Restructuring:
- New Defensive Coordinator: Rhule hired Rob Aurich (formerly of San Diego State) to replace John Butler.
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- Areas to Fix: While strong against the pass in 2025, the defense struggled against the run and in the red zone, leading to heavy late-season losses against Penn State (37-10), Iowa (40-16), and Utah (44-22) in the Las Vegas Bowl.
- Players to Watch: Veterans like Cam Lenhardt, Riley Van Poppel, and San Diego State transfer linebacker Owen Chambliss are expected to step up as leaders.
- A Demanding Schedule:
- Although Matt Rhule made it clear he doesn’t want to hear talk about the tough schedule, the Big Ten gauntlet begins on September 26, culminating in a major matchup on October 10 against defending national champion Indiana.