As Nebraska gears up for Year 4 under head coach Matt Rhule, the Cornhuskers are aiming to turn the corner after a 7-6 campaign in 2025. With a daunting 2026 schedule ahead, the team is focused on building momentum and making a statement in the Big Ten.

One of the biggest storylines this spring is the change under center. After Dylan Raiola's departure to Oregon, Nebraska has brought in Anthony Colandrea, a proven playmaker from UNLV. Known for his mobility and experience, Colandrea gives the offense a new dynamic that could open up the playbook and keep defenses guessing.

On the defensive side, the Huskers are undergoing a significant shift. New defensive coordinator Rob Aurich is implementing a 4-2-5 scheme, moving away from the 3-3-5 look that defined Nebraska's defense under Rhule over the past three seasons. This change emphasizes stopping the run—a critical area that will be tested early and often.

Paul Myerberg of USA TODAY Sports recently released his post-spring Big Ten rankings, slotting Nebraska at No. 12 in the conference. His assessment highlights both optimism and uncertainty: "The Cornhuskers’ outlook runs the gamut from four to maybe nine wins. There’s reason to like how the offense will look with a more mobile passer in former UNLV quarterback Anthony Colandrea and a vastly improved front, but the season will come down to how Nebraska defends the run under new coordinator Rob Aurich."

Nebraska opens the 2026 season at home against the Ohio Bobcats on Saturday, Sept. 5, at Memorial Stadium. It's a chance for the Huskers to set the tone early and prove they're ready to climb the Big Ten ladder.