Anthony Colandrea commits to Nebraska: Huskers pivot to former UNLV QB after losing Kenny Minchey
The whirlwind quarterback movement at Nebraska may finally be coming to an end, as the Cornhuskers have secured a commitment in the transfer portal from former UNLV star Anthony Colandrea. The Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year committed to Nebraska during his visit Tuesday.
Colandrea’s arrival marks a pivot for Nebraska, which over the weekend appeared to have its quarterback situation sorted for 2026. Former Notre Dame signal-caller Kenny Minchey committed to the Cornhuskers on Sunday, but rescinded his commitment to Kentucky a day later, leaving Matt Rhule looking for another starting option.
Rhule has his man in Colandrea, who is tasked with replacing two-year starter Dylan Raiola. Raiola, a former five-star recruit, helped the Cornhuskers emerge from a long bowl drought, but Nebraska still remains in search of a true breakout season after going 7-6 in each of the last two seasons. Raiola entered the transfer portal at the end of his sophomore campaign at Lincoln.
Colandrea brings three years of starting experience to Nebraska and has the potential to become one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the Big Ten. He was a prolific runner at UNLV and Virginia and made strides as a passer during his lone season with the Rebels. His 3,459 passing yards led the Mountain West and his 23 touchdowns were a career high. He also reduced his turnovers in 2025, throwing nine interceptions in 14 games. It was a big step forward for a gun-toting quarterback who racked up 20 picks over the previous two years.
Nebraska offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen will have a dual-threat weapon in his hands for the first time in Lincoln. Raiola, while adept at avoiding passers, was a pocket passer in every sense of the word. While Colandrea isn’t as refined a pitcher as his predecessor, his skills could unlock something in a relatively stale Cornhuskers offense.
Targeting a mobile quarterback appears to have been a priority for Rhule and Holgorsen, as Minchey was also expected to bring notable rushing ability to the program before returning his commitment to Kentucky.
Colandrea is a three-star prospect in the 2026 transfer portal cycle, according to 247Sports, and is ranked 21st overall and 175th overall.
