Nebraska Football Power Rankings: Colandrea, Gilmer Rise After Week 3 Win

LINCOLN, NE — September 15, 2026 — The Nebraska Cornhuskers are off to a 3-0 start, and while the competition has yet to reach Big Ten caliber, the early returns have been nothing short of electric. As the calendar turns to mid-September, the Huskers find themselves with a quarterback who has injected life into the offense, a revamped running back room, and a defense that is flying to the football with renewed confidence. In the latest edition of the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk Nebraska Football Player Power Rankings, we break down the most impactful performers through three weeks, blending on-field production with NFL Draft intrigue.

10. Owen Chambliss – Linebacker (Previous: 7)

Owen Chambliss may have seen his ranking dip, but his presence on the field is unmistakable. The 6-foot-3, 240-pound linebacker didn’t play in the second half against Bowling Green due to a hamstring injury, but when he was out there, the defense operated with a different level of confidence. Head coach Matt Rhule has praised Chambliss’s communication and leadership, and it’s clear that the unit gains a swagger when he’s patrolling the middle. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, NFL scouts are keeping a close eye on Chambliss, whose combination of size and instincts could make him a late-round gem. If he can stay healthy, he has a chance to put together some impressive tape before Big Ten play ramps up.

9. Jamal Rule – Running Back (Previous: 9)

Eight carries for 88 yards and a touchdown. That’s the kind of efficiency that makes a statement. Jamal Rule may be sharing the backfield—Mekhi Nelson and Isaiah Mozee also saw significant snaps—but he’s making the most of his opportunities. With three talented backs in the rotation, Rule’s spot on this list is precarious, but his big-play ability keeps him relevant. Nebraska’s rushing attack is averaging a robust 6.7 yards per carry, and Rule’s 59-yard touchdown burst against Bowling Green showcased his vision and burst. As the Huskers enter conference play, finding ways to keep all three backs involved will be key.

8. Anthony Colandrea – Quarterback (Previous: 8)

Anthony Colandrea has been a revelation. The dual-threat quarterback has completed 20 of 24 passes for 222 yards and four touchdowns, adding a dynamic element that Nebraska fans haven’t seen in years. His connection with receivers Kwazi Gilmer and Jacory Barney Jr. has been nearly unstoppable, and his ability to extend plays with his legs has defensive coordinators on edge. Urban Meyer recently stated that Nebraska upgraded at the quarterback position, and the tape backs it up. Colandrea’s poise in the red zone has been particularly impressive—something that plagued the Huskers last season. However, the real test comes against Big Ten defenses. Offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen has been conservative with designed runs, saving them for when the stakes rise. If Colandrea stays healthy, the ceiling for this offense is sky-high.

7. Kwazi Gilmer – Wide Receiver (Previous: Unranked)

Kwazi Gilmer has emerged as Colandrea’s favorite target, hauling in 11 catches on 16 targets through two games. His six-catch, six-target performance against Bowling Green included a highlight-reel grab that had social media buzzing. Gilmer’s chemistry with Colandrea is evident, and his ability to win contested catches makes him a reliable chain-mover. With Barney drawing attention on the other side, Gilmer is poised for a breakout Big Ten campaign. NFL scouts are beginning to take notice of his polished route-running and sure hands.

6. Luke Lindenmeyer – Tight End (Previous: 6)

Luke Lindenmeyer may not fill the stat sheet, but his impact as a blocker is undeniable. He recorded 16 knockdowns in Week 2 and continues to grade out as one of the top run-blocking tight ends in the country. His 65-yard downfield block on Jamal Rule’s touchdown run was a thing of beauty. As defenses focus on stopping Gilmer and Barney, Lindenmeyer’s number will be called more in the passing game. His combination of size and physicality makes him a valuable asset in both phases.

5. Janiran Bonner – Swiss Army Knife (Previous: 4)

Janiran Bonner does a little bit of everything. Whether lined up at tight end, fullback, or H-back, he’s a tone-setter for Nebraska’s physical running game. He graded out as the highest tight end per PFF and his clear-out block on Rule’s 59-yard score was textbook. Bonner’s versatility is a luxury for Holgorsen, and his selfless play embodies the culture Rhule is building. Expect his role to expand as the season progresses.

4. Andrew Marshall – Cornerback (Previous: 5)

Andrew Marshall has been a shutdown corner through three weeks. Teams are simply not throwing his way. On the opening snap against Bowling Green, he broke up a deep pass and was rarely tested thereafter. With Maryland and Ohio State looming, Marshall will face his stiffest challenges yet. His length and ball skills have NFL scouts intrigued, and a strong showing against elite receivers could catapult his draft stock.

3. Jacory Barney Jr. – Wide Receiver (Previous: 3)

Jacory Barney Jr. leads the team with 13 catches for 175 yards, showcasing the explosiveness that made him a highly touted recruit. While untimely penalties have drawn criticism, his playmaking ability is too valuable to keep off the field. Barney’s punt return skills are a weapon waiting to break a game open. As Big Ten play begins, cleaning up the mental mistakes will be crucial, but his talent is undeniable.

2. Jahsear Whittington – Defensive Lineman (Previous: 2)

Jahsear Whittington anchors Nebraska’s jumbo package and has been a force against the run. His run-defense grade leads the defensive line, and his half-sack and four tackles don’t tell the full story of his disruption. However, to maintain this ranking, he’ll need to start generating more pressure on the quarterback. The Big Ten is unforgiving, and Whittington’s ability to collapse the pocket will be critical.

1. Justin Evans – Center (Previous: 1)

Justin Evans remains the heartbeat of the offense. Matt Rhule has called him one of the best leaders he’s ever coached, and his play on the field backs it up. Evans consistently grades out as the top offensive lineman, and his unit has paved the way for 512 rushing yards and a 6.7 yards-per-carry average. Nebraska boasts two of the top running backs in the country in yards per touch, a testament to Evans and the offensive line’s dominance. As the Huskers gear up for Big Ten play, Evans’s leadership will be invaluable.

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