Anthony Colandrea, the transfer quarterback acquired by Nebraska from UNLV, has quickly integrated with his new teammates and is set to bring a new dimension to the Cornhuskers' offensive strategy. His dual-threat capabilities are expected to pose a challenge for Big Ten defenses.
Colandrea was named the 2025 Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year after leading UNLV with nearly 300 yards per game. He also guided UNLV to the Mountain West Championship game. His transfer to Nebraska follows the departure of Dylan Raiola, the program's highest-ranked recruit in history, who transferred to Oregon.
In his previous role at Virginia and UNLV, Colandrea started 31 games but never faced a ranked opponent. Nebraska's schedule presents a significantly tougher challenge, potentially featuring three top-five teams in October and November. He has spent the summer training with key receivers, including Nyziah Hunter, Nebraska's leading receiver from the previous season, to build on-field chemistry.
"Getting to know Anthony on and off the field has just been great," Hunter said. "He's a great dude, great quarterback and has a lot of ball knowledge. When he came here, it was really welcoming and open arms with him."
Colandrea, listed at 6-foot and 200 pounds, offers the mobility that Nebraska's quarterback position has lacked. His predecessor, Raiola, was sacked 27 times in nine games and struggled with a 9.7% sack rate before a season-ending broken leg. Colandrea models his improvisational style after Heisman Trophy winners Johnny Manziel and Baker Mayfield, emphasizing the ability to create plays when the offense breaks down.
During Raiola's two seasons, Nebraska held a 6-9 record in Big Ten games, with an offense that ranked in the middle of the conference. Raiola was sacked 49 times in those 15 games, throwing 17 touchdowns against 15 interceptions.
UNLV, under Colandrea, tied for 10th nationally in yards per play last year with 6.79. Colandrea rushed for 46.3 yards per game, ranking third in quarterback rushing in the Mountain West, and maintained a 5.7% sack rate. He also recorded 23 touchdowns against nine interceptions.
"Most big touchdowns are off a scrambling play, so that’s what Anthony brings," Hunter said. "Every single time you're going to see Anthony scramble. He's looking to throw the ball. He’s not looking to go out of bounds or go down or take a sack."
Coach Matt Rhule believes Colandrea's running ability, combined with an improved offensive line, will provide offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen with a broader playbook. "It will allow him to call the game without a conscience and just go attack," Rhule stated.
Colandrea's adjustment to the Nebraska spotlight will be a key factor. Unlike his previous roles at Virginia and UNLV, the Nebraska program operates with an intense, year-round focus on football, where the starting quarterback faces constant scrutiny. Rhule acknowledges the pressure can be difficult for some players but advises Colandrea to focus on coaching and teammate input, rather than external commentary.
"You get to play at Nebraska. We’re paying you a lot of money and you get the best facilities. That’s just what it is, man. Embrace it, roll with it and move on. That’s the only advice I have for him. It’s like, hey, put your phone down and just watch more tape," Rhule said.