Being a powerhouse in the Big Ten is one of the program’s main goals, and there is more than enough talent to make it happen. Matt Rhule, once again at the helm of the Nebraska Cornhuskers, is betting on Anthony Colandrea as his starter beginning in Week 1 of the 2026 NCAAF season.
“Anthony would play for us right now,” the head coach told reporters. “All the quarterbacks have done a nice job. Anthony, I think the biggest thing is he’s very competitive, very fiery. He expects to win every play. He does a nice job disciplining himself to also take what’s there and makes nice checks in the run/pass game, can throw the ball deep.“
Rhule highlighted an important aspect of Colandrea: “I think the biggest thing is he extends a ton of plays with his legs, which takes a lot of pressure off of the offensive line, the backs in protection and puts a lot of pressure on the defense.”
Only a few days remain until this team’s big debut. It will take place on September 5 at Memorial Stadium against the Ohio Bobcats.
Anthony Colandrea #10 Nebraska Cornhuskers QB.
A tough QB battle in Nebraska
Dylan Raiola’s departure to the Oregon Ducks left the starting quarterback position vacant at Nebraska, with three candidates initially competing for the job. After a thorough evaluation, Rhule ultimately chose Colandrea.
The former UNLV signal-caller beat out TJ Lateef, as well as Daniel Kaelin, who returned from Virginia. Now, both players will have to focus on earning a spot as the team’s primary backup.
Quarterback TJ Lateef #14 of the Nebraska Cornhuskers warms up.
Nebraska begins its journey in the 2026 season
In 2025, the Cornhuskers finished with a 7-6 record (4-5 in the Big Ten Conference), ending their season with a loss to the Utah Utes in the Las Vegas Bowl. Rhule, eager for redemption, will look to get the 2026 campaign off to a strong start from Week 1.
- Week 1, vs Ohio – September 5
- Week 2, vs Bowling Green – September 12
- Week 3, vs North Dakota – September 19
- Week 4, at Michigan State – September 26
- Week 5, vs Maryland – October 3
