LINCOLN, NE – As the Nebraska Cornhuskers prepare for what many anticipate to be a pivotal 2025 season, whispers from across the Big Ten conference have coalesced into a resounding chorus of praise for head coach Matt Rhule. Rival coaches, speaking anonymously, have lauded Rhule’s leadership, his methodical program-building approach, and the tangible progress he has instilled in Lincoln, signaling a widespread belief that the Huskers are on the cusp of a significant breakthrough.
After a 5-7 debut in 2023, Rhule’s second season saw a notable leap, with the Cornhuskers finishing 7-6 and securing their first bowl victory since 2015. This steady upward trajectory, mirroring his successful rebuilds at Temple and Baylor, has instilled confidence not just within the fervent Husker fanbase, but also among the experienced tacticians he faces week in and week out.
“Expectations are building here, but I think this group can meet them,” remarked one anonymous Big Ten coach to Athlon Sports, a sentiment echoed by several others who were interviewed for the publication’s annual anonymous coach’s poll. This isn’t merely polite platitudes; it’s a recognition of the fundamental changes Rhule has implemented since arriving in Lincoln.
A key factor in this rising tide of optimism is Rhule’s recent coaching staff changes. The acquisition of Dana Holgorsen as offensive coordinator has been particularly highlighted. “Putting Dana [Holgorsen] in as OC is a great move for Matt [Rhule], and he’ll create a lot of advantages for Dylan [Raiola] in that offense,” another coach stated, pointing to the potential synergy between Holgorsen’s proven offensive schemes and the development of highly-touted quarterback Dylan Raiola, who enters his second year as the presumptive starter. Raiola himself has been noted for his significant progress, with Rhule commenting that the young signal-caller is “10 steps ahead of where he was” as a freshman.
While there have been changes on the defensive side of the ball as well, coaches seem to believe the core identity of the 3-3-5 defense will remain. “The DC change won’t really affect what they do schematically; they’re still going to run a 3-3-5 base,” observed one peer, suggesting a consistent defensive philosophy despite personnel shifts.
Beyond the tactical and personnel moves, what truly stands out to Rhule’s contemporaries is his overarching leadership style. Known for his disciplined approach and meticulous attention to detail, Rhule has systematically worked to establish a winning culture within the program. Players and staff alike have spoken about his emphasis on accountability, hard work, and developing the “whole person.”
His “mat drills,” notorious for their intensity, are designed to forge mental toughness and team unity, elements that were perhaps lacking in previous iterations of the Cornhusker program. Insiders suggest Rhule’s organizational prowess is on par with some of Nebraska’s most successful coaches of the past, signaling a departure from what some described as a chaotic environment before his arrival.
The transfer portal has also been a significant tool in Rhule’s arsenal, allowing him to quickly address roster deficiencies and inject talent where needed. Coupled with a strong recruiting class, the Cornhuskers are perceived as having a significantly more talented roster on paper than in recent years. “They’re more talented on paper than the Nebraska roster has been in years. The expectations are that they break out and finally compete among the top level in the league,” commented one Big Ten coach.
Of course, the proof will be in the pudding on the field. The 2025 schedule, with favorable breaks in conference play, presents an opportunity for the Huskers to capitalize on their perceived momentum. Analysts are already projecting 8-9 wins, a substantial step forward that would cement Rhule’s reputation as one of college football’s premier program builders.
The narrative around Matt Rhule at Nebraska has shifted. From being tasked with a daunting rebuild of a once-proud but recently struggling program, he is now viewed by his peers as a coach who “knows how to do this” and has the Cornhuskers “heading in the right direction.” As the 2025 season rapidly approaches, all eyes in the Big Ten, and indeed, across the college football landscape, will be on Lincoln to see if Matt Rhule and the Nebraska Cornhuskers can indeed meet the growing expectations.
