Nebraska’s 2026 Red-White Game returned to an actual competitive format at Memorial Stadium on March 28, with Team Nebraska edging Team Huskers 22-17. The scoreline was secondary. What mattered was what the 118-play scrimmage revealed about the direction of this program heading into Matt Rhule’s fourth year.
The clearest takeaway: Nebraska has its quarterback. Anthony Colandrea is the unambiguous No. 1. His processing speed is exceptional, and his first step when deciding to run is equally quick. The UNLV transfer went 12-of-19 for 80 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception — solid numbers for a spring showcase, with the lone pick coming on an awkward throw to his left. He’s not Dylan Raiola, and that transition from Raiola to Colandrea will be something to keep an eye on as the 2026 season progresses.
The other revelation was freshman running back Jamal Rule. Rule sparked the comeback from a 14-6 halftime deficit with an explosive 75-yard touchdown run early in the fourth quarter, finishing as the game’s leading rusher. The 6-foot, 205-pound back recorded over 120 rushing yards on 11 carries and would be a major surprise if he isn’t listed as the opening-day starter this fall.
The drama concluded fittingly: redshirt freshman Conor Booth sprinting 32 yards for the game-winning score on the final offensive play. The kind of moment that gives a fan base something to believe in.
And yet — the official attendance of 28,188 was the smallest spring game crowd since 2000. A chilly 46-degree kickoff, the basketball team’s March Madness run, and a growing “prove-it” mentality among fans were all cited as contributing factors. The talent on the field looked encouraging. Getting the stands to fill back up? That will be when the game versus the visiting Ohio University Bobcats kicks off on September 5th.
