Nebraska's Matt Rhule Implements Offensive Staff Change, Citing Need for 'a Change' After Illinois Loss

Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule has initiated a change in the Cornhuskers’ offensive leadership, removing Dana Holgorsen from his role as offensive coordinator. The decision was confirmed shortly after the team’s 24-13 defeat to Illinois on Friday, a game that marked Nebraska's fourth consecutive loss.

This coaching adjustment comes just five days after Rhule had publicly described Holgorsen as "one of the best offensive minds of our generation." Co-offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Glenn Thomas will now assume play-calling responsibilities for the Huskers, whose offense has managed to score only 54 points during their current four-game losing streak.

Coaching Change Announced Amidst Offensive Struggles

In a public statement, Rhule expressed his profound dissatisfaction with the team's recent outcomes. "Like so many of you, I am angry, I am disappointed and I am frustrated with our results this season," Rhule stated. He further emphasized his ultimate accountability for the program's performance: "As the head coach, I am ultimately responsible for every aspect of our program — including wins and losses — and it is my responsibility to make changes when they are warranted."

Rhule elaborated that while he retains respect for Holgorsen’s coaching capabilities and leadership qualities, he concluded that the team's offensive approach necessitated a shift. "While there are many areas that need improvement, our offensive plan and execution is simply not working. Earlier today, I relieved offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen of his duties. As I have recently shared, Dana has a fantastic offensive mind, he is a strong leader, and he has done great work here at Nebraska. But simply, we need a change."

Analyzing Nebraska's Offensive Woes

Holgorsen had faced considerable scrutiny, particularly after the 17-10 loss to Washington, where he was criticized for seemingly abandoning the running game. In that contest, quarterback Anthony Colandrea attempted 44 passes. Earlier in the week, prior to the Illinois game, Rhule had notably reiterated his high regard for Holgorsen's strategic acumen, stating, "Dana Holgorsen is one of the best offensive minds of our generation."

The recent loss to Illinois highlighted ongoing issues for the Huskers, including numerous penalties, missed field goal attempts, and what some observers deemed questionable play-calling. Against the Illini, Nebraska managed to score points on only two of its nine offensive drives. Over the course of the last four games, the team has converted just nine of 46 possessions into scores.

Looking Ahead for the Cornhuskers

Rhule affirmed his commitment to continuous evaluation of the program. "I will continue to evaluate our program through the season and certainly at its conclusion and make additional changes where I believe they will help us win," he stated. He acknowledged the high expectations of the Nebraska fan base, embracing them while also recognizing their unwavering support for the team's student-athletes. "I hope they will continue to be there for our players with very important games still ahead. Our entire program is determined to finish this season strong."

Holgorsen had served as Nebraska’s offensive coordinator for his second full season. He initially joined the Cornhuskers in November 2024 (Editor's note: The original source date of 2024 for a second full season is likely a typo and would typically refer to an earlier year such as 2022 or 2023 for a current second full season) as an offensive consultant after leaving a similar role at TCU. He was promoted to offensive coordinator just a week later, following Marcus Satterfield's transition to a different position within the coaching staff.

Nebraska is scheduled to travel to New Jersey next week for an upcoming matchup against Rutgers.