Dana Holgorsen might not be thrilled with Nebraska’s offense last weekend, but that doesn’t mean he’ll change how the Huskers do things. He’s especially not going to change his approach to throwing downfield, especially since quarterback Anthony Colandrea has been so successful at it lately.
In 31-13 victory over Michigan State last Saturday, Colandrea was a perfect 3-for-3 on passing attempts of 20-plus yards downfield, and Holgorsen made it clear after practice Tuesday that NU will look to keep that in its arsenal.
It makes sense that Nebraska wants to keep pushing the ball downfield after Colandrea hooked up with Kwazi Gilmer on a long 44-yard touchdown that involved a fantastic throw and a great catch in the end zone. Holgorsen said that Gilmer's route wasn't originally supposed to be there. Instead, the duo's consistent preparation together in the film room, on the practice field, and on their own helped make the play possible.
In other words, both Gilmer and Colandrea noticed the original route might not be that successful, but they communicated that the deep route would work better. It definitely did.
Anthony Colandrea and Nebraska football receivers build lethal connection for Big Ten play
“His rapport with Ant is fantastic,” Holgorsen said during his Tuesday press conference. “They watch film together all the time. They go out there; they think this turf field out here is like recess. They go out there during the day and just play catch.”
“I asked Ant if he was a big recess guy growing up and he was like, ‘Absolutely’,” he continued. “So, he’s a guy that wants the ball and goes out there and plays catch. Kwazi’s special, now. That was probably the best throw and catch I’ve ever seen. I’ve seen some good ones; that was exceptional… I think you’ll see more of that.”
Nebraska's key is getting other receivers involved in the deep ball. Nyziah Hunter has great speed, but he’s largely been in the background so far this year. Jacory Barney can also burn speed with the best of them. However, they’ll have to wait until he comes back from the injury he suffered in the Michigan State game.
Nebraska is already near the top in the country in explosive plays. As the offense gains confidence, it will add even more deep balls to the arsenal. That could make the Huskers a scary team for the rest of the Big Ten.
Add us as a preferred source on Google