TJ Lateef Cleared for Las Vegas Bowl - and That Could Change Everything for Nebraska
Nebraska fans got the update they were hoping for heading into bowl week: quarterback TJ Lateef is good to go.
After missing most of the Iowa game with a hamstring injury and being limited in early bowl practices, Lateef has been cleared as a “full go” for Wednesday’s Las Vegas Bowl, according to head coach Matt Rhule. That’s not just good news - it’s potentially game-changing for a Huskers team looking to close the season with momentum and clarity at the quarterback position.
Let’s not forget how much Lateef’s mobility means to this offense. Against Iowa, he couldn’t run, and that took a key dimension out of Nebraska’s attack. With him healthy, the zone-read becomes a real weapon again - and against a Utah defense that’s been giving up 181 rushing yards per game and nearly 5 yards per carry, that could open up some serious opportunities.
A Glimpse Into the Future at Running Back
Keep an eye on Isaiah Mozee and Mekhi Nelson in this one. Both backs are in position to make a statement - not just for this game, but for their role in 2026 and beyond. Nebraska will likely add a running back or two from the transfer portal, but a strong showing from either Mozee or Nelson could force the coaching staff to take a longer look at what they already have in the room.
This bowl game is more than just a season finale - it’s an audition. And for young players like Mozee and Nelson, it’s a chance to put themselves squarely in the conversation for RB1 next fall.
Lateef’s Moment to Claim QB1?
The same goes for Lateef. With the transfer portal wide open and Nebraska expected to explore its options, this week could be pivotal in determining whether Lateef is the guy moving forward. If he plays well and shows command of the offense - especially with his legs back under him - it could go a long way toward solidifying his spot at the top of the depth chart heading into spring.
Of course, nothing’s set in stone. But the Las Vegas Bowl will offer the clearest glimpse yet of what Lateef can bring to the table when fully healthy. If he delivers, Nebraska might already have its quarterback of the future in-house.
A Super Bowl Champ Joins the Coaching Staff - For Now
Nebraska’s bowl prep also got a bit of a boost from someone who knows a thing or two about winning on the biggest stage. Dave Tollefson - a Super Bowl champion with the New York Giants and former Las Vegas Raider - is helping coach the Huskers’ EDGE players this week.
Rhule revealed the news on Saturday, adding that he himself is also hands-on with the defensive line alongside Phil Simpson. Some players have even joked about Rhule taking over the D-line full-time. That’s probably not happening, but the energy and experience being brought into the room this week is real - and it could make a difference come game day.
Big Week on the Hardwood for Nebraska Basketball
While the football team wraps up its season in Vegas, both Husker basketball squads are staring down a massive week.
The women’s team restarts Big Ten play on Monday with a marquee home matchup against USC, followed by a road trip to face Iowa on Thursday. That’s two ranked opponents in four days - and two major opportunities to make noise in the conference.
Fred Hoiberg’s men’s team has one final non-conference tune-up on Tuesday against New Hampshire before Michigan State - also ranked - comes to town on Friday. That one will be at Pinnacle Bank Arena, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most anticipated matchups of the season.
Three top-25 showdowns. Two at home. One huge week for Nebraska basketball.
Go Big Red.