Matt Rhule Makes Coaching Change at Nebraska Amid Losing Streak

Nebraska Cornhuskers head coach Matt Rhule made a significant coaching adjustment this weekend, dismissing Dana Holgorsen from his role as offensive coordinator after a 24-13 defeat to Illinois. This move comes as part of a broader shake-up aimed at rejuvenating the team's fortunes, which have seen them struggle in recent weeks.

Holgorsen, who had been at the helm of Nebraska’s offense since 2024, was replaced by Glenn Thomas, who will now be responsible for calling plays. The decision to make this change was reportedly driven by Rhule's dissatisfaction with the team's performance, especially in the latter stages of the season where they faced a four-game losing streak in Big Ten play. During this period, Nebraska averaged just 13.5 points per game, a stark contrast to their earlier success.

The timing of Holgorsen's dismissal was notable, occurring immediately after the loss to Illinois on Saturday. Rhule expressed his frustration with the team's overall performance this season, indicating that a change was long overdue. Holgorsen had previously received high praise from Rhule, being described as one of the best offensive minds of his generation. However, recent criticism centered around his strategic choices, particularly his handling of the running game.

Glenn Thomas, stepping into the newly vacated position, brings a wealth of experience to Nebraska. He previously held the title of offensive coordinator at both UNLV and Arizona State, and has worked closely with Rhule at Temple and Baylor, serving as co-offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. His familiarity with Rhule’s system and approach is expected to facilitate a smoother transition for the team.

Nebraska’s record stood at 5-4 following the firing of Holgorsen, marking a significant dip from their early-season form where they managed to score 31 or more points in each of their first five victories. In contrast, their subsequent losses saw them fail to reach 20 points in any game. This inconsistency highlights the urgency of the coaching change and the hope that it will bring renewed vigor to the team’s offensive strategy.

Looking ahead, Nebraska faces Rutgers in their next game, presenting an opportunity for the new play-calling regime to make an impact. With Rhule emphasizing his comprehensive oversight of the program, the upcoming match against Rutgers could serve as a crucial test for the adjustments made in the wake of Holgorsen’s departure.

What We Know

• - Dana Holgorsen was fired as Nebraska's offensive coordinator. ¹²³
• - Glenn Thomas will take over play-calling duties. ¹²³
• - Nebraska had a four-game losing streak in Big Ten play. ¹²
• - The firing of Holgorsen occurred on Saturday, following a 24-13 loss to Illinois. ¹³
• - Rhule expressed anger, disappointment, and frustration with the team's performance this season. ¹³
• - Nebraska's average score during the four-game losing streak was 13.5 points per game. ¹²
• - Nebraska's record after firing Holgorsen was 5-4. ²
• - Nebraska scored 31 or more points in each of their first five wins of the season. ²
• - In their losses following the initial five wins, Nebraska failed to reach 20 points in any game. ²
• - Holgorsen had been the offensive coordinator for Nebraska since 2024. ²
• - Holgorsen is 55 years old and previously coached at West Virginia and Houston. ²
• - Thomas was previously the offensive coordinator at UNLV and Arizona State. ²
• - Thomas worked under Rhule at Temple and Baylor as co-OC and quarterbacks coach. ²
• - Rhule stated that he is responsible for all aspects of the program, including making necessary changes. ³
• - Holgorsen was previously praised by Rhule as one of the best offensive minds of his generation. ³
• - Holgorsen was criticized for his strategy in previous games, particularly for neglecting the running game. ³
• - Nebraska faces Rutgers in their next game. ³