The 2026 college football season is fast approaching, and Nebraska fans are eagerly anticipating the emergence of their next breakout star. With the departure of Emmett Johnson, who made a name for himself in 2025, the Huskers are on the hunt for a new game-changer. Here's a deep dive into three players who could be the answer to Nebraska's offensive and defensive woes.
Anthony Colandrea: The New Face of Nebraska's Offense?
Colandrea, a former UNLV quarterback, arrives in Lincoln with a reputation for his impressive playmaking abilities. His 2024 season at UNLV was a sight to behold, throwing for 3,459 yards and 23 touchdowns while completing nearly 66% of his passes. He also added 650 rushing yards and 10 rushing touchdowns, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities. But can he replicate this success in the Big Ten?
The challenge is clear: the Big Ten schedule includes powerhouses like Ohio State, Indiana, Oregon, Washington, and Iowa. Colandrea will need to bring the confidence and playmaking ability he displayed at UNLV to Lincoln. If he can consistently make big plays while minimizing mistakes, he could become the most important player on Nebraska's roster. The question remains: can he handle the pressure and maintain his high-level performance?
Williams Nwaneri: The Defensive Lineman to Watch
Nwaneri, a former five-star recruit, has the physical tools to be a disruptive force on Nebraska's defensive line. He showed flashes of his potential last season, but it's time to see if he can become a consistent game-changer. With Rob Aurich's new 4-2-5 defense, Nwaneri is expected to start at one of the edge positions and become a major factor.
The Huskers have been seeking a dominant pass rusher since Randy Gregory's days, and Nwaneri could be the answer. If he can win one-on-one matchups consistently, it will make life easier for the linebackers and secondary. However, the question remains: can he put together a full season of dominant play, living up to his recruiting pedigree?
Nyziah Hunter: The Explosive Receiver
Hunter, a former Cal transfer, made an immediate impact in his first season at Nebraska, leading the team in receiving yards and touchdowns. At 6-foot-1 and 210 pounds, he has the size to create matchup problems, but his true strength lies in his ability to make explosive plays. With a new quarterback in Colandrea and a talented supporting cast, Hunter has the opportunity to take his game to the next level.
The question is: can he turn his 617-yard season into a 1,000-yard campaign? If Nebraska's offense takes a step forward, Hunter could be a major reason why. His ability to create space and make big plays down the field will be crucial to the team's success.
Other Players to Watch
The running back position is a question mark after Johnson's departure, with players like Isaiah Mozee, Mekhi Nelson, and Jamal Rule vying for a feature role. Jacory Barney Jr. is another player to watch, having shown potential as a receiver and returner. If he can take a step forward as a receiver while maintaining his impact in the return game, he could become an elite player.
As the 2026 season approaches, Nebraska fans are eagerly anticipating the emergence of their next breakout star. With a mix of offensive and defensive players on the radar, the Huskers have the potential to surprise and delight their fans. The question remains: who will be the next Emmett Johnson?
