Lincoln, Neb. – Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule said the Cornhuskers must change direction on offense after the team fell 24‑13 to Illinois on Friday. In a statement released early Saturday, Rhule confirmed that he had relieved Dana Holgorsen of his duties as offensive coordinator.
Reason for the shake‑up
Rhule, now in his fourth season at Nebraska, expressed frustration with the team’s performance, noting that the Huskers have scored just 54 points in their last four games. “Like so many of you, I am angry, I am disappointed and I am frustrated with our results this season,” he said. “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.”
While praising Holgorsen’s offensive mind and leadership, Rhule said the current scheme simply isn’t working. “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,” Rhule added.
New play‑calling duties
Co‑offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Glenn Thomas will assume play‑calling responsibilities moving forward. Thomas has been part of the staff since Rhule’s arrival and will now guide the Huskers’ offensive strategy as the team looks to rebound.
Offensive struggles highlighted
The loss to Illinois underscored ongoing issues: penalties, missed field goals, and questionable play‑calling plagued the Huskers. Nebraska managed to score on only two of nine possessions against the Illini, and over the past four games the team has converted just nine of 46 total possessions.
Critics have also pointed to Holgorsen’s tendency to abandon the running game, a concern that surfaced in a 17‑10 loss to Washington where quarterback Anthony Colandrea attempted 44 passes.
Looking ahead
Rhule emphasized that the coaching change is part of a broader effort to evaluate the program throughout the season and make additional adjustments as needed. “The Nebraska fan base has high expectations and I embrace them, and I also know of their passionate support of the young men in our program. I hope they will continue to be there for our players with very important games still ahead,” he said.
The Huskers travel to New Jersey next week for a matchup with Rutgers, where they will have an early opportunity to test the new offensive leadership.
Background on Holgorsen
Holgorsen entered his second full season as Nebraska’s offensive coordinator after serving as an offensive consultant at TCU in November 2024. He was promoted to coordinator a week later when Rhule reassigned Marcus Satterfield.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
