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Nebraska beats Ohio 49-21 in season opener

9/7/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Nebraska defeated Ohio 49-21 in the season-opening game.
Freshman Jamal Rule rushed for 122 yards and two touchdowns on 15 carries.
Quarterback Anthony Colandrea completed 18 of 32 passes for 275 yards and three touchdowns.
The game was played in 91-degree heat, with field temperatures exceeding 130 degrees in the second half.

History

Historical Context

In 1972 the NCAA dropped the freshman ineligibility rule, letting first-year players compete in varsity football for the first time. That change expanded the University Division to 121 programs and produced a wave of freshman rushers, including future Hall of Famer Tony Dorsett. Nebraska’s opening-game rush by freshman Jamal Rule now reflects that legacy, prompting Power Five schools to target versatile freshmen.

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Story summary

Nebraska defeated Ohio 49-21 in the season-opening game.
Freshman Jamal Rule rushed for 122 yards and two touchdowns on 15 carries.
Quarterback Anthony Colandrea completed 18 of 32 passes for 275 yards and three touchdowns.
The game was played in 91-degree heat, with field temperatures exceeding 130 degrees in the second half.

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