Watch: Matt Rhule on Anthony Colandrea’s Running Role Against Indiana

Matt Rhule wants Indiana to account for Anthony Colandrea as part of Nebraska’s running game.

In his October 5 press conference, the Nebraska head coach discussed using quarterback draws with run-pass options and zone reads, along with the threat Colandrea creates when he escapes a passing play.

Watch the uploaded press-conference segment below.

Why Matt Rhule’s quarterback-run comments matter

For Indiana, a called quarterback run and a scramble create different responsibilities. A scramble tests the pass rush’s containment and the secondary’s ability to maintain coverage. A designed run requires the defense to account for the quarterback from the beginning of the play.

Rhule’s remarks give the Hoosiers reason to prepare for both. That does not establish how often Nebraska will call any particular concept on Saturday, but it makes Colandrea’s running role an important part of the matchup.

Coach Griff’s take

The objective is coordinated aggression. Indiana needs to pressure Colandrea without opening escape lanes, handle its assignments against the read game and maintain coverage when he extends a play.

His legs can create an explosive play when the initial passing opportunity disappears. Nebraska is also looking for ways to build that running threat into its offensive structure.

Read the full breakdown: Coach Griff’s Take: Nebraska Wants Anthony Colandrea’s Legs in the Game Plan, including his UNLV and Nebraska stats, the Indiana staff’s JMU connection and the lesson from Old Dominion.

Source and context: Nebraska Athletics’ October 5 press-conference coverage.