The Nebraska Cornhuskers have officially announced Matt Rhule as their new head coach, ending a month-long search for Scott Frost’s replacement. Rhule, who was fired by the Carolina Panthers in October after two disappointing seasons, returns to college football where he had success at Temple and Baylor.
Rhule’s vision for Nebraska
In his introductory press conference on Saturday, Rhule expressed his excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to lead one of the most storied programs in college football history. He said he was drawn to Nebraska by its tradition, fan base, facilities and academic excellence.
Rhule also outlined his vision for the Huskers, saying he wants to build a team that is tough, disciplined, physical and smart. He said he will emphasize the fundamentals of football, such as blocking, tackling and controlling the line of scrimmage. He also said he will recruit players who fit his culture and scheme, and who have high character and work ethic.
Rhule said he will run a pro-style offense that can adapt to the personnel and the opponent. He said he will hire a defensive coordinator who can run a multiple defense that can pressure the quarterback and create turnovers. He also said he will have a strong focus on special teams, which he called “the hidden third of the game”.
Rhule’s track record in college football
Rhule has proven himself as a successful college football coach, turning around two struggling programs in Temple and Baylor. He led Temple to back-to-back 10-win seasons in 2015 and 2016, winning the American Athletic Conference title in his final year. He then took over Baylor, which was reeling from a sexual assault scandal that led to the firing of Art Briles. Rhule inherited a 1-11 team in 2017 and improved it to 11-3 in 2019, winning the Big 12 title and reaching the Sugar Bowl.
Rhule’s overall record in college football is 47-43, but he is 36-16 in his last four seasons. He is known for developing players and preparing them for the next level. He has coached 16 players who were drafted into the NFL, including four first-round picks.
Rhule’s challenges at Nebraska
Rhule faces a daunting challenge at Nebraska, which has not won a conference title since 1999 or a national title since 1997. The Huskers have gone through four head coaches since firing Frank Solich in 2003, none of whom could restore the program to its former glory. The Huskers have not had a winning season since 2016 and have not been ranked in the AP Top 25 since 2018.
Rhule will have to compete in a tough Big Ten West division that features Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota and Northwestern. He will also have to deal with high expectations from a passionate fan base that sells out every home game at Memorial Stadium. He will also have to rebuild the roster that has lost several key players to the transfer portal or the NFL draft.
Rhule’s support from former Huskers
Rhule has received support and praise from several former Huskers who are excited about his hiring. Hall of Fame coach Tom Osborne, who won three national titles at Nebraska, said he was impressed by Rhule’s resume and personality. He said he believes Rhule can bring back the winning culture and tradition at Nebraska.
Former quarterback Tommy Frazier, who led Nebraska to two national titles in 1994 and 1995, said he was happy with Rhule’s hire. He said he likes Rhule’s style of coaching and his emphasis on fundamentals. He also said he hopes Rhule can recruit more dual-threat quarterbacks like himself.
Former defensive lineman Ndamukong Suh, who was a Heisman Trophy finalist in 2009, said he was excited about Rhule’s arrival. He said he thinks Rhule can bring back the dominance and toughness of Nebraska’s defense. He also said he is willing to help Rhule in any way he can.
