Las Vegas Bowl is reminder how far Nebraska has to go

It was fun to see the Nebraska football team come out with an opening-drive touchdown in the Las Vegas Bowl. The Huskers even traded punches with the 15th-ranked Utah Utes early in the game.

However, as things went on, it was clear how wide the gap between the two teams was and how far the Nebraska football program still needs to go.

After the Huskers grabbed a 14-7 lead, Utah scored 37 consecutive points before a late touchdown run by TJ Lateef. Utah rushed for 225 yards. The Utes passed for 310. Nebraska couldn’t do anything to slow down Devon Dampier. He threw for 310 yards, but ran for another 148. He accounted for five touchdowns and was the biggest difference between the two teams.

Utah had a massive difference-maker at quarterback. Nebraska didn’t. That’s not Lateef’s fault. He’s a true freshman. He completed 15 of 28 passes for 182 yards. He also ran for 22 yards, had two total touchdowns, and one interception.

It wasn’t a great game. For much of the second and third quarters, he looked lost. It feels like Matt Rhule will have to find his 2026 starting quarterback in the transfer portal, not that Lateef couldn’t grow into the role.

That’s just a lot to ask, and a lot to risk. 44-22 was the final score. Utah covered the spread and proved once again that Nebraska isn’t in the same category as programs pushing for the College Football Playoff.

We have seen how quickly programs can change. Nebraska’s progress has been slower than we all want, but with another solid offseason, and maybe the program can keep its head above water next year, although improvements have to be made, especially with six nine-win teams looming on the 2026 schedule.

For More Nebraska content, follow us on Twitter, like our Facebook Page, and Subscribe to the Husker Big Red YouTube Channel. You can also find our podcast on Apple or Spotify.