The Nebraska Cornhuskers wrapped up their season with a 44-22 defeat at the hands of No. 15 Utah during the Las Vegas Bowl on Thursday, concluding their campaign with a 7-6 record for the second consecutive year.
After a promising start with touchdowns on their initial two drives, Nebraska’s offense lost momentum. Their defense struggled as well, surrendering 24 points and allowing Utah to gain 300 yards in the first half alone.
The second half mirrored the first, with Utah scoring touchdowns on their first two possessions, effectively sealing the game’s outcome.
Utah’s quarterback, Devion Dampier, showcased his dual-threat capabilities, amassing over 450 yards of total offense and contributing five touchdowns against the Huskers’ defense.
Among the few highlights for Nebraska was running back Mekhi Nelson, who scored the team’s first touchdown and accumulated over 100 yards of total offense.
“They got the best of us today,” said Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule in the postgame news conference. “Our guys just didn’t quite make enough plays in the second half.”
Rhule acknowledged the team’s physicality but pointed to execution as the primary area of deficiency. “I think there were a couple times, you know, maybe left the pocket just a little too early. Some other times, you went for a fourth down, and we’re open, and they bat the ball down. They were playing man coverage against us and pressuring, and we just didn’t hurt them enough,” he explained.
With several young players taking the field due to injuries, Rhule noted the impact of inexperience but remained optimistic about their return next season, potentially avoiding the transfer portal.
This game also marked an unexpected coaching change for Utah, as Kyle Whittingham departed for the head coach role at Michigan following his announced retirement. The Utes were led by new head coach Morgan Scalley, who secured a win in his debut.
With back-to-back seven-win seasons under Rhule, Nebraska has seen an increase in bowl game appearances and winning records compared to recent years without postseason play. Nonetheless, no Nebraska coach in the past 60 years has maintained a long tenure with only seven-win seasons, highlighting the importance of a successful 2026 for Rhule’s future in Lincoln.
Ultimately, Rhule’s third season was marred by injuries and coaching transitions, falling short of preseason expectations.
Preseason and Early Season Hopes
Nebraska began the year unranked in the AP top 25, but many analysts predicted a strong season with at least eight wins. The schedule appeared more favorable compared to previous years, with significant home games against Michigan and USC, and a challenging road game at Penn State. Rhule’s track record of success in his third seasons at Temple and Baylor fueled optimism, along with sophomore quarterback Dylan Raiola, a former five-star recruit, entering his second year as a starter.
The season kicked off with a narrow 20-17 victory over Cincinnati in Kansas City, highlighted by a crucial interception from senior defensive back Malcolm Hartzog Jr. Despite the win, Nebraska’s struggles against the run were evident as Cincinnati rushed for 202 yards.
Following two dominant wins against weaker opponents, the Huskers faced No. 21 Michigan in a high-stakes matchup televised by CBS. Despite hopes of ending their losing streak against ranked teams, Nebraska fell short in a 30-27 loss, hindered by missed opportunities and a vulnerable run defense.
Mid-Season Highs and Lows
By the seventh game, Nebraska entered the AP top 25 with a 5-1 record and a No. 25 ranking. They faced Minnesota on the road, seeking to end a losing streak against the Gophers. However, Minnesota’s strong defense led to a 24-6 defeat for the Huskers.
Rhule’s name surfaced as a potential candidate for the Penn State coaching job, but he ultimately remained with Nebraska, signing an extension through 2032 with an increased buyout.
After a bounce-back win against Northwestern, Nebraska faced No. 23 USC in a high-profile matchup. The Huskers held a 14-6 lead into the third quarter, with their secondary shining. However, a key injury to quarterback Dylan Raiola, who suffered a broken fibula, impacted the game’s outcome, resulting in a 21-17 loss.
The Injury
Following Raiola’s injury, backup TJ Lateef stepped in but couldn’t clinch the win. The injury forced a shift in the team’s offensive strategy, with Lateef and running back Emmett Johnson leading a 28-21 victory over UCLA. Johnson had a standout performance with 129 rushing yards, 103 receiving yards, and three touchdowns, while Lateef completed 13 of 15 passes for 205 yards and three scores.
Late November Disappointment
The anticipated game against Penn State, initially seen as a challenge, turned into a disappointing 37-10 loss for Nebraska. Despite Penn State’s struggles, their talent shone through, and Nebraska’s weaknesses in both offense and defense were evident.
The regular season concluded with a loss to Iowa, as Lateef played through an injury, and despite Johnson’s impressive rushing performance, the team fell 40-16 on senior day in Lincoln. Nebraska ended the regular season with a 7-5 record, a modest improvement from the previous year.
Coaching Changes and Portal Chatter
December saw significant changes in Nebraska’s coaching staff. Defensive coordinator John Butler, offensive line coach Donovan Raiola, and defensive line coach Terry Bradden were dismissed. New hires included Geep Wade from Georgia Tech for the offensive line, Rob Aurich from San Diego State as defensive coordinator, and Lonnie Teasley as the running game coordinator.
In roster news, quarterback Dylan Raiola’s decision to enter the transfer portal was confirmed, and running back Emmett Johnson declared for the NFL Draft, leaving Nebraska with key positions to fill for the next season. Rhule’s ability to effectively navigate these changes will be crucial as the team faces a challenging 2026 schedule with games against top College Football Playoff teams.
