Utah Dominates Nebraska in Las Vegas Bowl, 44-22, Led by Devon Dampier.

In the Las Vegas Bowl on December 31, 2025, No. 15 Utah defeated Nebraska 44-22, with Devon Dampier leading the Utes in his standout performance. Dampier threw for 310 yards and two touchdowns and ran for 148 yards with three additional scores, earning game MVP honors. This marked Morgan Scalley’s first game as Utah’s head coach, although he was originally expected to start coaching after the bowl game. Utah overcame an early deficit, outscoring Nebraska 17-0 in the second quarter and controlling the game. The Utes totaled 535 yards compared to Nebraska’s 343 and set several program records, including 3,462 rushing yards and 41 rushing touchdowns for the season. Tight ends J.J. Buchanan and Dallan Bentley caught 10 passes for 182 yards and two touchdowns, with Buchanan playing a homecoming game in Las Vegas. Nebraska’s freshman quarterback TJ Lateef passed for 182 yards with a passing and rushing touchdown, while Mekhi Nelson rushed for 88 yards and one touchdown. Despite an early lead, Nebraska struggled in the second quarter, managing just one yard on six rushes. This loss extended Nebraska’s streak to 30 consecutive losses against AP-ranked teams.

Looking ahead, Nebraska will host Ohio on September 5, while Utah will open the season at home against Idaho on September 3.