Nebraska Huskers Defeated by No. 15 Utah in Las Vegas Bowl
In the SRS Distribution Las Vegas Bowl held on New Year’s Eve, Nebraska took on No. 15 Utah, ultimately falling 44-22. The Huskers started strong, scoring on their first two possessions to lead 14-7 at the end of the first quarter. However, Utah quickly regained control behind the stellar performance of quarterback Devon Dampier.
Game Highlights
Dampier excelled with over 450 total yards and five touchdowns. He completed 19 out of 31 passes for 310 yards, while also rushing for 148 yards and three touchdowns. With this victory, Utah concluded its season with an impressive 11-2 record.
Nebraska’s Standout Players
For Nebraska, redshirt freshman Mekhi Nelson had a notable performance. Making his first career start in place of the injured All-American Emmett Johnson, Nelson rushed for a career-high 88 yards and a 38-yard touchdown. He also contributed 48 receiving yards on three catches. True freshman Isaiah Mozee added 32 rushing yards and caught four passes for 38 yards.
Key Drive and Scoring Plays
- Nebraska’s opening drive: An eight-play, 82-yard drive ending with Nelson’s touchdown run.
- Utah’s immediate response: A two-yard touchdown run by Dampier to tie the game.
- Nebraska regained the lead: A 75-yard drive resulting in an eight-yard touchdown reception by Jacory Barney Jr.
- Utah’s scoring plays: Included a 28-yard field goal and a 20-yard touchdown pass from Dampier to JJ Buchanan.
Heading into halftime, Utah led 24-14, following a strong offensive display that continued into the second half. They maintained momentum with a 10-play, 75-yard drive, capping it with another touchdown run from Dampier, bringing the score to 31-14.
Final Scores and Stats
- Utah’s total offensive yards: 535
- Nebraska’s total offensive yards: 343
- Dampier’s touchdown tally: Five touchdowns (two passing, three rushing)
- Nebraska’s final score: Lateef’s seven-yard rushing touchdown, followed by a successful two-point conversion.
Despite Nebraska’s early excitement, Utah’s consistent pressure and effective plays proved too much for the Huskers. The game concluded with Nebraska’s final score of 44-22, marking a challenging end to their season.
