Dana Holgorsen Talks Bowl Prep, QB Health, and Utah’s Defensive Threat Ahead of Las Vegas Bowl
LAS VEGAS - Nebraska offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen met with reporters on Monday following the Huskers’ bowl practice at Bishop Gorman High School, and he covered a lot of ground - from how the offense is adjusting without Emmett Johnson, to the health of freshman quarterback TJ Lateef, to what he’s seeing on film from Utah’s defense.
With the Las Vegas Bowl against Utah right around the corner, Holgorsen gave a candid look at where things stand for Nebraska’s offense heading into the final game of the season.
Geep Wade’s Impact Already Showing
One of the first topics Holgorsen addressed was Nebraska’s new offensive line coach, Geep Wade. Holgorsen admitted he didn’t have much of a prior relationship with Wade before the hire, but he did his homework - diving into Georgia Tech film to get a feel for Wade’s coaching style.
What he saw impressed him.
“Just by watching those guys and how they played - detail, physicality, pad level, scheme - it's been good,” Holgorsen said. “Trying not to do too much with him. He's got a plateful trying to learn stuff and coach, but the energy is outstanding.”
That’s exactly what Nebraska’s offensive line needs heading into a physical matchup with Utah - a coach who brings technical precision and high energy to the room.
TJ Lateef Getting Healthy - and Ready for the Big Stage
Freshman quarterback TJ Lateef is still working his way back from a sore hamstring, and Holgorsen said the staff has been intentionally cautious with his recovery. Lateef only started running again a few days ago, but that was all part of the plan to keep him fresh and healthy for the bowl game.
Despite the injury, Holgorsen couldn’t help but reflect on the whirlwind start to Lateef’s college career.
“Pretty cool that your first four college starts are Rose Bowl, Memorial Stadium, Happy Valley and Allegiant Stadium,” Holgorsen said. “Pretty cool start for him. He's excited to play.”
That’s not just a baptism by fire - that’s a highlight reel of college football venues. And Holgorsen seems confident that Lateef is ready to rise to the occasion.
Running Back Room Embracing the Opportunity
With Emmett Johnson opting out of the bowl game, Nebraska’s running back rotation is wide open - and Holgorsen said the rest of the room has responded in a big way during bowl prep.
“They're so excited about going into a game knowing they're going to get one or two more carries,” Holgorsen said. “That's what it turned into with what Emmett was able to do, but all those guys are playing at a high level.”
Holgorsen made it clear the plan is to go by committee - at least initially. But if someone finds a rhythm? He’s not afraid to ride the hot hand.
And don’t be surprised if Kenneth Williams gets a shot. Known mostly for his work on special teams this season, Williams could see offensive snaps with Johnson out. Holgorsen didn’t commit to a specific role, but he did hint that Williams could be in the mix.
Everyone’s on Alert for Playing Time
Holgorsen also made it clear that any offensive player who’s been practicing should be ready to play. That’s not just coach-speak - it sounds like Nebraska is using this bowl game as a bit of a proving ground for younger talent and depth players.
With the transfer portal set to open on January 2, Holgorsen acknowledged that the quarterback market is about to move fast. He expects the “quarterback dominoes” to fall quickly once things open up, but for now, the focus is squarely on Utah.
Utah’s Defense Still Brings the Heat
Even with some of Utah’s top edge rushers opting out, Holgorsen isn’t underestimating the Utes’ ability to disrupt the quarterback. He pointed out that while the sack numbers might not jump off the stat sheet, Utah still creates plenty of pressure - and that’s something Nebraska has to be ready for.
“They're excellent in man coverage,” Holgorsen said. “We've worked some man coverage stuff, we've worked some protection.
They do a good job of getting to the quarterback even if it's not a sack - forcing the ball out. Our guys are going to have to win in man coverage.”
That’s going to be one of the key battles to watch in this game. Can Nebraska’s receivers create separation against Utah’s sticky man coverage? And can the offensive line - under Wade’s guidance - hold up long enough to give Lateef time to work?
Final Thoughts
Holgorsen’s comments paint a picture of a team that’s still developing, still learning, but also embracing the moment. This bowl game isn’t just a reward for the season - it’s a chance to build momentum, evaluate talent, and set the tone for what’s coming next.
And for players like TJ Lateef and Kenneth Williams, it’s an opportunity to step into the spotlight and show what they can do on a big stage.