Full Breakdown
Nebraska Huskers Wrap Fall Camp: Depth Chart Takes Shape and Anthony Colandrea Named Starting Quarterback
8/23/2026, 2:05:08 AM
Core Event – Final Scrimmage and Roster Evaluation
Nebraska closed fall camp with a second scrimmage of roughly 110 plays. Head coach Matt Rhule used the session to set the depth chart for 2026, officially naming UNLV transfer Anthony Colandrea the starting quarterback. Rhule also noted that the running-back group, still replacing All-America Emmett Johnson, has not produced a clear starter, and junior Gunnar Gottula will start on the offensive line.
Background & Context
The Huskers entered camp after a 7-6 finish in 2025, ranking 45th nationally in red-zone efficiency (85.5%). The offseason added six new assistant coaches—four on defense—including edge-coach Roy Manning, who followed defensive coordinator Rob Aurich from San Diego State.
Key Figures & Groups
- Matt Rhule – head coach.
- Anthony Colandrea – senior transfer quarterback, 31 career starts, 61 TDs, 45 turnovers, 8,693 all-purpose yards.
- Gunnar Gottula – junior offensive tackle, projected starter.
- Roy Manning – edge-defense coach.
- Danny Kaelin and TJ Lateef – quarterbacks competing for the backup role.
Data & Statistics
- Plays in final scrimmage: ~110.
- Colandrea’s prior production: 61 TDs, 45 TOs, 8,693 yards.
- Red-zone efficiency: Nebraska 85.5% (45th); UNLV 87.9% (22nd).
- Points per game (2025): Nebraska 28.7; UNLV 34.1.
- Rushing yards: Dylan Raiola – -87 yds; Colandrea – 649 yds.
- Depth estimate: Rhule projects 15-18 players capable of rotating as starters, with 17-19 reaching “winning level.”
Official Statements & Responses
Rhule praised the edge group as “tough, rugged kids” and highlighted the depth of the third-group players.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Danny and TJ would both be in the mix for No. 2,” — Matt Rhule
- “I think we’re probably in the 15-18 range, that you would feel like you can rotate to be a starter and get to that winning level,” — Matt Rhule
Why It Matters – Competitive Outlook
Nebraska faces one of the nation’s toughest schedules, ranked 21st in difficulty by ESPN’s FPI. Starting a mobile, experienced quarterback is intended to boost red-zone conversion and scoring. Depth on the offensive line and defensive edge will be critical for consistency against strong opponents.
What’s Next
Nebraska opens the 2026 season in early September against Ohio. The depth chart and starting lineup should be finalized after the final week of fall-camp evaluations, with player health—especially Colandrea’s durability—remaining a key focus.
