Nebraska rushes for 523 yards in season-opening win over Ohio, PFF grades show strong offensive debut
Nebraska amassed 523 total yards and 49 points against Ohio, with the offense earning high Pro Football Focus grades, highlighted by a balanced rushing attack and solid line play.
Nebraska recorded 523 yards of total offense and a 49-21 victory over Ohio in its season opener, according to Pro Football Focus (PFF) grades released after the game. The Huskers ran the ball 42 times for 248 yards and four touchdowns, easing concerns about replacing former workhorse Emmett Johnson.
Transfer quarterback Anthony Colandrea contributed 298 all-purpose yards, completing six of eight third-down passes and converting five of seven rush attempts into first downs. He finished with four rushing touchdowns despite an intentional grounding penalty and a sack.
True freshman running back Jamal Rule led the ground game with 169 all-purpose yards and three touchdowns, while junior Mekhi Nelson added 64 rushing yards, 65 receiving yards and a touchdown. Their combined effort accounted for 298 all-purpose yards and five scores, establishing a productive two-back rotation.
Wide receivers recorded 141 receiving yards. Transfer Kwazi Gilmer was targeted ten times, catching five passes for 58 yards and a touchdown, while Jacory Barney added 60 yards on five receptions. Nyziah Hunter had a single 17-yard catch.
Fifth-year tight end Luke Lindenmeyer posted two receptions for 22 yards and received an overall grade of 80.0, reflecting his role as both a pass-catcher and blocker.
The offensive line did not allow any sacks, registering only three quarterback hurries and one hit. Starters Geep Wade, Lonnie Teasley, Justin Evans, Gunnar Gottula and Brendan Black played the majority of snaps, with backups Tyler Knaak and Tree Babalade also grading well.
Overall, PFF grades suggest Nebraska’s offense performed efficiently in its first game, laying a foundation for continued production as the season progresses.