News
November 07, 2025
As Nebraska turns to TJ Lateef at QB, it'll take a group effort at UCLA
Matt Rhule says this week isn't about TJ Lateef — he wants to see everyone (including coaches) elevate their game for a trip out west.
**As Nebraska turns to TJ Lateef at QB, it'll take a group effort at UCLA**
Lincoln, NE - With freshman quarterback TJ Lateef set to lead the Nebraska Cornhuskers against UCLA this week, Head Coach Matt Rhule is emphasizing a team-wide effort, insisting the spotlight shouldn't solely be on the young signal-caller. Rhule made it clear that success on the road against the Bruins will require everyone, from players to coaches, to raise their level of play.
Lateef's debut comes at a crucial juncture for the Huskers, who are looking to bounce back after a tough start to the season. While the coaching staff has confidence in Lateef's potential, Rhule stressed the importance of not placing undue pressure on the freshman's shoulders.
“This week isn’t about TJ,” Rhule stated during his press conference. “It’s about the entire team stepping up. We need our offensive line to be dominant, our running backs to find those extra yards, our receivers to make contested catches, and our defense to create turnovers. And that includes the coaches. We need to be at our best in terms of play-calling and adjustments.”
The message is clear: Nebraska understands the challenge ahead in facing UCLA, and they know that a victory won't be achieved solely through Lateef's performance. The team needs to be cohesive and execute at a high level across all facets of the game.
Rhule’s emphasis on a collective effort suggests a strategy focused on supporting Lateef and minimizing potential mistakes. Expect a game plan that leans on the running game, solid defense, and special teams play to take some of the pressure off the young quarterback.
The coaching staff is also under scrutiny. Play-calling decisions and in-game adjustments will be critical in helping Lateef navigate his first collegiate start. Rhule's words indicate a commitment to providing Lateef with the best possible environment to succeed, but also a realistic understanding that the entire team needs to contribute significantly for a positive outcome against UCLA. The game will be a true test of Nebraska's depth, resilience, and coaching acumen.
Lincoln, NE - With freshman quarterback TJ Lateef set to lead the Nebraska Cornhuskers against UCLA this week, Head Coach Matt Rhule is emphasizing a team-wide effort, insisting the spotlight shouldn't solely be on the young signal-caller. Rhule made it clear that success on the road against the Bruins will require everyone, from players to coaches, to raise their level of play.
Lateef's debut comes at a crucial juncture for the Huskers, who are looking to bounce back after a tough start to the season. While the coaching staff has confidence in Lateef's potential, Rhule stressed the importance of not placing undue pressure on the freshman's shoulders.
“This week isn’t about TJ,” Rhule stated during his press conference. “It’s about the entire team stepping up. We need our offensive line to be dominant, our running backs to find those extra yards, our receivers to make contested catches, and our defense to create turnovers. And that includes the coaches. We need to be at our best in terms of play-calling and adjustments.”
The message is clear: Nebraska understands the challenge ahead in facing UCLA, and they know that a victory won't be achieved solely through Lateef's performance. The team needs to be cohesive and execute at a high level across all facets of the game.
Rhule’s emphasis on a collective effort suggests a strategy focused on supporting Lateef and minimizing potential mistakes. Expect a game plan that leans on the running game, solid defense, and special teams play to take some of the pressure off the young quarterback.
The coaching staff is also under scrutiny. Play-calling decisions and in-game adjustments will be critical in helping Lateef navigate his first collegiate start. Rhule's words indicate a commitment to providing Lateef with the best possible environment to succeed, but also a realistic understanding that the entire team needs to contribute significantly for a positive outcome against UCLA. The game will be a true test of Nebraska's depth, resilience, and coaching acumen.
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