In a commanding display, the No. 15 Utah Utes dominated the Nebraska Cornhuskers 44-22 in the SRS Distribution Las Vegas Bowl, capping off their season with an 11-win campaign under new head coach Morgan Scalley. This college football post-match review dives into the final score recap, standout player performances, key team stats, injury notes, and what’s next for both programs. If you’re looking for in-depth game analysis or player performance highlights from this bowl clash, read on.
Final Score Recap: Utah Pulls Away After Early Nebraska Surge
Nebraska struck first, racing to a 14-7 lead in the opening quarter with efficient scoring drives, including a 38-yard touchdown run by Mekhi Nelson. However, Utah responded fiercely, outscoring the Huskers 37-8 over the remaining three quarters. Quarterback Devon Dampier orchestrated the comeback, while the Utes’ defense clamped down, forcing multiple three-and-outs. The final score: Utah 44, Nebraska 22. This win marked Utah’s first bowl victory in six years and ended Nebraska’s season on a three-game losing streak.
Top Player Performances: Dampier’s Historic Dual-Threat Show
Player performance defined this game analysis, with Utah’s Devon Dampier delivering a masterpiece.
- Devon Dampier (Utah QB): In a potentially legendary outing, Dampier threw for 310 yards and 2 touchdowns on 19-of-31 passing, while rushing for 148 yards and 3 scores—becoming the first Ute since at least 1995 to eclipse 300 passing and 100 rushing yards in a game.
- Mekhi Nelson (Nebraska RB): Filling in admirably, the redshirt freshman rushed for 88 yards and a touchdown on 12 carries, including a game-opening 38-yard burst.
- TJ Lateef (Nebraska QB): The freshman showed flashes in his audition for 2026, completing passes for 182 yards with 1 touchdown pass and 1 rushing score, plus an interception.
- Jacory Barney Jr. (Nebraska WR): Caught a touchdown reception to give Nebraska its early lead.
Utah’s ground game featured contributions from multiple backs, while their defense limited Nebraska after the first quarter.
Team Stats Breakdown: Utah’s Offensive Explosion
The stats tell the story of Utah’s dominance after adjustments:
| Category | Nebraska Cornhuskers | Utah Utes |
|---|---|---|
| Total Yards | 343 | 535 |
| Passing Yards | 182 | 310 |
| Rushing Yards | 161 | 225 |
| Turnovers | 1 (INT) | 0 |
| Third Down Conv. | Low efficiency post-Q1 | High (strong conversions) |
| Time of Possession | Shorter in second half | Controlled clock |
Utah set program records with 225 rushing yards in the game contributing to season totals, while Nebraska managed strong early yards (over 150 in Q1) but stalled thereafter, gaining minimal offense in quarters 2-3.
Injury Updates: Opt-Outs and Absences Impact Both Sides
Both teams dealt with significant absences. Nebraska was without starting QB Dylan Raiola (transfer portal), star RB Emmett Johnson (NFL Draft opt-out), and others like DB DeShon Singleton (medical procedure). Utah missed key offensive linemen Spencer Fano and Caleb Lomu (NFL opt-outs), but their depth held strong. No major in-game injuries were reported that altered the outcome significantly, though Nebraska’s lineup changes contributed to offensive struggles later.
Next Fixtures: Offseason Focus for 2026
With the bowl season wrapped, both teams turn to 2026:
- Utah Utes (11-2): Open the season at home against Idaho on September 3, 2026, as they transition fully under Morgan Scalley and prepare for Big Ten integration challenges.
- Nebraska Cornhuskers (7-6): Kick off 2026 at home against Ohio on September 5, with heavy emphasis on transfer portal additions, quarterback competition, and rebuilding momentum under Matt Rhule.
This game analysis highlights Utah’s resilience and explosive offense as bowl champions, while Nebraska gains valuable experience for young players heading into the offseason. For more college football post-match reviews and player performance breakdowns, keep following!
