In a recent press conference, Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule expressed his dedication to the Cornhuskers program while subtly addressing speculation regarding the open position at Penn State. The job became available following the dismissal of James Franklin.
Rhule’s Connection to Penn State
Rhule’s ties to Penn State run deep. He was a walk-on linebacker under the legendary coach Joe Paterno in the 1990s. Additionally, he met his wife at the university and shares a close friendship with athletic director Pat Kraft, who previously hired him at Temple.
Coaching Journey and Achievements
- Coached at Temple from 2012 to 2015.
- Led the Baylor Bears for three years before moving to the NFL as head coach of the Carolina Panthers.
- Became the head coach at Nebraska in December 2022, hired by former athletic director Trev Alberts.
Since his arrival in Nebraska, Rhule has a record of 17-14 over three seasons. The team is currently 5-1 and recently made it to the Associated Press poll, ranking 25th.
Future Plans and Salary
At age 50, Rhule is set to earn $7.5 million this year, with a contract that extends through 2030. If he were to leave the program before January 1, he or his future employer would owe Nebraska $5 million.
Commitment to Nebraska
Rhule emphasized his commitment to building Nebraska into a premier college football program. “I absolutely love it here,” he stated. He acknowledged the efforts required to enhance the facilities and attract top talent, showcasing a strong desire to develop the team’s potential into a powerhouse.
While he noted his affection for Penn State and expressed sadness over Franklin’s departure, Rhule reaffirmed his happiness at Nebraska. The Cornhuskers have a challenging game ahead against Minnesota on Friday night, and Rhule remains focused on the team’s success.
