Huskers Rally to Roll Ohio as Rookie Rule Romps
si.com • • sports
Key Points:
- Nebraska Cornhuskers defeated Ohio Bobcats 49-21 in a season opener marked by extreme heat and a strong second-half performance, securing their 100th win in a season opener.
- Nebraska overcame a sluggish first half and multiple penalties, with quarterback Anthony Colandrea leading the offense with 275 passing yards, three touchdowns, and notable mobility in his debut.
- Freshman running back Jamal Rule had an impressive debut, rushing for 122 yards and two touchdowns, becoming the first Nebraska freshman RB since 2004 to surpass 100 yards in a season opener.
- The Nebraska defense improved significantly in the second half, limiting Ohio to just 61 yards after halftime and recording eight pass breakups, their highest since 2024.
- Special teams showed areas needing improvement under new coordinator Brett Maher, with issues on kickoffs and returns, while the team looks ahead to a potentially easier game against Bowling Green next week.
