The offseason has been marked by a mass exodus, with Nebraska parting ways with 34 seniors and transfers, among them former starter Dylan Raiola and running back Emmet Johnson. The departures leave large shoes to fill, but the coaching staff sees an opportunity to reshape the lineup.
At the heart of the conversation is the quarterback competition between TJ Lateef and Anthony Colandrea. Lateef, who threw for 904 yards and five touchdowns last year, is up against Colandrea, the Mountain West Player of the Year whose 2025 campaign included 3,459 passing yards, 23 touchdowns and nine interceptions. Early reports suggest Colandrea is being favored to take the opening snap.
The backfield will be anchored by Isaiah Mozee and Mekhi Nelson. Mozee logged 26 carries for 115 yards in the previous season, while Nelson added 27 rushes for 147 yards and two touchdowns. Both are expected to shoulder a larger share of the rushing attack as the offense seeks balance.
Wide receiver depth will be anchored by Nyziah Hunter, Kwazi Gilmer and Jacory Barney Jr. Hunter’s 617 receiving yards and five touchdowns last year position him as the top target, with Gilmer and Barney Jr. providing additional options.
Defensively, the secondary returns experienced corners Donovan Jones and Andrew Marshall, who posted 59 and 45 tackles respectively. Their consistency should help stabilize a unit that also welcomes redshirt sophomore defensive end Williams Nwaneri, who contributed 27 tackles and 2.5 sacks.
A Historical Edge Against Rutgers
Historically, Nebraska holds a favorable record against Rutgers, which has translated into a slight edge in betting lines for their upcoming encounter. While the Scarlet Knights may bring flashes of brilliance, the Huskers’ blend of returning talent and fresh competition makes them the modest favorites.