Nebraska is gearing up for an exciting new chapter in its quarterback saga following Dylan Raiola's transfer this offseason. With TJ Lateef still in the mix, head coach Matt Rhule faces an intriguing QB battle, especially with the arrival of Anthony Colandrea from UNLV through the transfer portal.
As spring practices kick off, offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen is already impressed with Colandrea's performance. Holgorsen, a seasoned veteran in college football, appreciates the fresh energy Colandrea brings, especially after working with Raiola last season.
The competition between Lateef and Colandrea is heating up, but it’s Colandrea’s scrambling ability that has Holgorsen particularly excited. This dynamic aspect of Colandrea's game is something Holgorsen didn’t fully explore with Raiola, making it a valuable addition to the Huskers' offensive arsenal.
"Having the ability to make things happen off schedule is very refreshing," Holgorsen noted, highlighting the potential for creative playmaking this season.
Raiola, despite his talent, didn’t quite reach the heights expected of a five-star recruit during his time with Nebraska. While he led the team to bowl games, he struggled in high-stakes matchups against ranked opponents.
His second season was cut short by a leg injury, sparking transfer rumors that eventually saw him move to Oregon. There, he’s expected to bide his time behind Dante Moore before stepping into a starting role.
As Nebraska evaluates its options between Lateef and Colandrea, early indications suggest the UNLV transfer might have the edge. The Huskers are on the brink of a new era, and with Colandrea’s playmaking potential, fans have plenty to be excited about.