Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule fired offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen following the Cornhuskers’ 24-13 loss to Illinois, ending a tenure that just five days earlier Rhule had praised as the work of “one of the best offensive minds of our generation.”
The loss to Illinois was Nebraska’s fourth straight. Over that stretch the Cornhuskers have scored on only nine of 46 possessions and put up just 54 total points. Against Illinois, Nebraska scored on two of nine possessions and was again undercut by penalties, missed field goals and play-calling that drew criticism from fans and analysts alike.
Co-offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Glenn Thomas will now call plays for the Huskers.
Rhule did not soften the message in his statement announcing the move.
“Like so many of you, I am angry, I am disappointed and I am frustrated with our results this season,” Rhule 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.”
He went further in explaining the decision to cut loose a coordinator he had defended publicly just days before.
“While there are many areas that need improvement, our offensive plan and execution is simply not working. Earlier today, I relieved offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen of his duties. As I have recently shared, 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.”
The breaking point for many critics came in a 17-10 loss to Washington, where Holgorsen was faulted for abandoning the run and letting quarterback Anthony Colandrea throw 44 times. Despite that game, Rhule had told reporters earlier in the week that Holgorsen was “one of the best offensive minds of our generation.”
Holgorsen joined Nebraska in November 2024 as an offensive consultant after leaving TCU, where he had served in a similar role. He was promoted to offensive coordinator a week later when Rhule shifted Marcus Satterfield to a different position. He had been in his second full season running Nebraska’s offense.
Rhule, now in his fourth year as Nebraska’s head coach, signaled that more changes could be coming.
“I will continue to evaluate our program through the season and certainly at its conclusion and make additional changes where I believe they will help us win. 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. Our entire program is determined to finish this season strong.”
Nebraska heads to New Jersey next week to face Rutgers.
