**BREAKING NEWS: Nebraska Cornhuskers Head Coach Matt Rhule Responds to Heartfelt Note from Legendary Coach Tom Osborne**
*LINCOLN, Neb. — May 16, 2025*
In a rare and emotionally charged moment that bridges generations of Nebraska football, current Nebraska Cornhuskers head coach Matt Rhule has publicly responded to a heartfelt handwritten note sent by none other than legendary former head coach Dr. Thomas William “Tom” Osborne. The gesture has electrified Husker Nation, reigniting pride and reflection among players, fans, and alumni alike.
Tom Osborne, who coached the Cornhuskers from 1973 to 1997 and led the team to three national championships, is widely considered one of the most respected figures in the history of college football. His note, according to sources close to the program, was a message of encouragement and support — not only for Rhule as he guides the team through a pivotal phase of rebuilding but also for the young men wearing the scarlet and cream today.
Rhule, who is entering his second full season as Nebraska’s head coach, released a thoughtful and gracious response this morning. His message, read aloud during a press briefing at Memorial Stadium, was filled with reverence for Osborne’s legacy and an emotional acknowledgment of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the program.
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### Osborne’s Message: A Call to Character and Tradition
Although the full text of Tom Osborne’s original note has not been published in its entirety, excerpts shared with permission reveal a man deeply invested in the team’s future.
“I wanted to let you know how proud I am of the direction this team is heading,” Osborne wrote. “This program is about more than wins — it’s about developing men of character, discipline, and unity. I see that spirit beginning to return under your leadership.”
The note, delivered to Rhule’s office earlier this week, reportedly included personal memories of Osborne’s own early challenges as head coach, and advice on weathering criticism with composure and purpose.
“He didn’t have to reach out like that,” Rhule said during his response. “But he did — and it means the world to me. Coach Osborne built a dynasty not just on talent but on values. I’ve studied him, I’ve admired him, but to now have his blessing and words of encouragement… it’s something I’ll never forget.”
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### Rhule’s Response: Bridging the Past and the Future
Rhule, who has coached previously at Baylor, Temple, and in the NFL with the Carolina Panthers, took the Nebraska job in late 2022 with the goal of restoring the program to national relevance. His response to Osborne’s note reflects an awareness of that legacy — and a desire to honor it in tangible ways.
“Coach Osborne reminded me that success at Nebraska isn’t just about Saturday. It’s about the work on Monday through Friday. It’s about integrity in recruiting. It’s about being there for your players when they’re down. And most of all, it’s about believing in something bigger than yourself,” Rhule said, his voice cracking slightly with emotion.
Rhule went on to say that Osborne’s note would be framed and placed in a prominent spot inside the football facility, where players can see it every day.
“I want every young man who walks through these doors to know whose footsteps they’re walking in — and whose standards they’re expected to uphold,” he said. “It’s not pressure. It’s a privilege.”
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### A Moment That Resonates Across Generations
Reaction to the exchange has been swift and deeply emotional across the Nebraska fan base, which has remained fiercely loyal despite years of underperformance on the field.
“Seeing Coach Osborne take the time to write to Coach Rhule… it just brings tears to your eyes,” said former Husker linebacker and NFL veteran Barrett Ruud. “It’s like the heart of Nebraska football is beating strong again.”
Social media has lit up with messages of support and reflection from current players, alumni, and fans. Some are calling the moment a “passing of the torch,” while others see it as a reminder that Husker football is about community, not just competition.
University of Nebraska–Lincoln Chancellor Rodney Bennett issued a statement praising both men: “We are grateful to Coach Osborne for his continued involvement in this university and to Coach Rhule for honoring that legacy with grace and humility. This is a powerful moment for our institution.”
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### Looking Ahead: Legacy Meets Vision
Rhule has made it no secret that he views Nebraska as a long-term commitment. “This isn’t just a job to me — it’s a mission,” he said last year. That mission now seems even more anchored by the connection to one of the most revered figures in college sports history.
In closing his response to Osborne’s note, Rhule offered a message of his own: “Coach, thank you for believing in me. We’ll keep fighting. We’ll keep building. And with your example to guide us, we’ll bring Nebraska back to where it belongs — not just at the top of the standings, but as a program the whole country respects.”
With spring camp wrapping up and fall preparations underway, this exchange has infused the program with a renewed sense of direction and unity. Whatever the season may bring, one thing is clear: the soul of Nebraska football — defined by
honor, grit, and legacy — is alive and well.
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