Shatel: Under construction, literal and metaphorical, Nebraska football offers welcome surprise
Omaha World-Herald • • sports
Key Points:
- Nebraska's downtown Lincoln is experiencing significant construction, causing road and sidewalk closures near Memorial Stadium, symbolizing the ongoing rebuilding of the football program under coach Matt Rhule in his fourth year.
- The 2026 season opener brings cautious optimism, with hopes that a standout running back will emerge from the committee to energize the offense and support quarterback Anthony Colandrea.
- The offensive line, anchored by guards Paul Mubenga and Brendan Black and center Justin Evans, carries high expectations, and their performance will be a key indicator of the team's potential.
- Quarterback Anthony Colandrea is expected to play a savvy game manager role under Dana Holgorsen's guidance, aiming to reduce turnovers and effectively use his mobility without needing to dominate games single-handedly.
- Defensive coordinator Rob Aurich's unit could have a transformative impact similar to Bo Pelini's 2003 defense, with several players poised to step up and create a fast, hard-hitting, turnover-generating defense that could change the season's trajectory.
