The Nebraska Cornhuskers are gearing up for spring football practices, set to commence on February 21. This marks a shift from the typical late-March schedule as Coach Matt Rhule enters his fourth year with the program. With an influx of almost 30 new players, including 16 transfers and 11 high school recruits, the Huskers are looking to revamp their roster ahead of the upcoming season.
As the team prepares, the quarterback position is under the spotlight. The arrival of Anthony Colandrea, a transfer from UNLV, has generated significant excitement. The Florida native had an impressive junior season, amassing 3,459 passing yards and completing nearly 66 percent of his throws, while also rushing for 649 yards and scoring 10 rushing touchdowns. Colandrea”s ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game positions him as the likely frontrunner for the starting role heading into spring.
Returning to the program is former Husker Daniel Kaelin, who spent a year at Virginia. Kaelin redshirted during his initial season in Nebraska but gained valuable experience with the Cavaliers. He played in seven games, completing 30 passes for 339 yards and one touchdown, while also adding rushing stats. His return adds depth to the quarterback room, where he could challenge for the starting job.
The Huskers also retained TJ Lateef, who will enter his sophomore season as the only quarterback on the roster with game experience in a Nebraska uniform. Lateef started the last four games of the previous season, stepping in for an injured Dylan Raiola. He completed 74 passes for over 900 yards and threw for five touchdowns while contributing significantly on the ground. His experience, although limited, could play a crucial role as he competes for the starting spot alongside Colandrea and Kaelin.
Colandrea”s extensive collegiate experience and production make him a strong candidate for the starting position, but Lateef and Kaelin will likely vie for the backup role. The competition is expected to be intense as Nebraska seeks to solidify its quarterback depth, an area that has been critical in previous seasons. The recent changes in the quarterback room should bolster the team”s prospects for the upcoming season, providing the coaching staff with multiple options moving forward.
Nevertheless, the departure of former starter Dylan Raiola to Oregon and the loss of veteran Jalyn Gramstad have left gaps in the roster. Raiola, a Husker legacy, started 22 games in two seasons before transferring. Additionally, Marcos Davilla has also moved on, transferring to Abilene Christian after not seeing game action in his year with Nebraska.
Overall, the quarterback competition promises to be one of the most intriguing aspects of Nebraska”s spring practices, as the team looks to improve its offensive performance and prepare for the challenges of the upcoming season.
