Jeremy Pernell: It's Time for Nebraska's Matt Rhule to Move On From Dana Holgorsen

Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule faces a defining decision regarding offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen after the team’s offense stalled during a three-game losing streak. Rhule has previously demonstrated a willingness to make difficult staffing changes when necessary, having demoted longtime assistant Marcus Satterfield midway through 2024, fired longtime assistant Ed Foley following that same year, and moved on from defensive coordinator John Butler after just one season.

After starting this season 5-0 and generating optimism in Rhule’s fourth season, the Huskers dropped three straight games against Indiana, Oregon, and Washington. The offense became progressively less effective against these opponents, scoring 17 points against Indiana, 14 against Oregon, and 10 in a home loss to Washington on Halloween night. Across these three games, the unit managed a total of 41 points against Indiana and Oregon, while the offense became progressively less effective against the three most talented teams.

Staffing Decisions and Past Changes

Rhule’s history shows he acts when tape demands it, previously navigating difficult decisions with assistants like Satterfield and Foley despite his history with them. The current offensive struggles have brought renewed scrutiny to Holgorsen, whose tenure since arriving in November 2024 has been marked by an offense that lacks an identity and cannot get rolling against quality competition or equal-or-greater talented opponents.

McKewon: Matt Rhule gave Dana Holgorsen the 'pieces' — time for Nebraska's OC to cook https://t.co/P4tjOgc9VO

— https://x.com/OWHnews/status/2084807291509883339

The Contrast Between Offense and Defense

While the offense struggled, Rob Aurich’s defense held Indiana to 20 points, Oregon to 17, and Washington’s offense to just 10 points. The central question remaining for Rhule is whether this iteration of the offense can consistently compete against the caliber of teams Nebraska needs to beat to become a legitimate contender.