Nebraska’s Coaching Conundrum: Matt Rhule’s Reluctance and the Media Frenzy Over Mike Ekeler
The Nebraska Cornhuskers are in full-on transformation mode, making bold moves to revitalize their football program. With the recent hiring of Pat Stewart as the General Manager and Terry Bradden as the defensive line coach, the Huskers are turning a new page. But amid these strategic appointments, one particular name has ignited a whirlwind of intrigue, speculation, and drama—Mike Ekeler, the newly minted special teams coordinator.
What makes Ekeler’s arrival so compelling? Well, it wasn’t just another routine hire. Instead, it seems like Matt Rhule, Nebraska’s head coach, had some serious reservations about bringing him in—not because of Ekeler’s credentials, but because of external pressures, particularly from the media and former players.
Matt Rhule’s Tug-of-War: Hiring Ekeler Under Duress?
Rhule’s decision to hire Mike Ekeler didn’t come without hesitation. In fact, according to whispers around the program, he was initially resistant to the idea simply because the media and ex-Huskers were advocating for it. That’s right—peer pressure might have played a role in the hiring process of one of Nebraska’s most crucial coaching positions.
Adam Carriker, former Nebraska defensive end and football analyst, took to Twitter on March 13 to voice his curiosity:
“Am I the only one who found it interesting that Matt Rhule was hesitant to hire Mike Ekeler… Because the media & former players told him to do so?! I understand not wanting to deal with a potential ‘celebrity’ coach & obviously Ekeler’s hired, but that’s interesting.”
Carriker wasn’t just throwing out speculation—Rhule himself admitted it. When asked about his initial reluctance, the Nebraska HC didn’t shy away from the truth:
“When I started hearing local media and former players say to hire him, my initial reaction was ‘don’t hire him.’ At the end of the day, I don’t love celebrity coaches. I want guys who just want to work.”
A bold stance, but ultimately, Rhule couldn’t deny Ekeler’s prowess. The numbers spoke for themselves. Under Ekeler’s guidance at Tennessee, the Volunteers led the SEC in punt return average for the third time in four seasons. Meanwhile, Nebraska’s special teams were, frankly, a disaster. The Huskers allowed multiple blocked punts and kicks, ranking a dreadful 110th in the nation in punt return average.
So, despite his initial misgivings, Rhule had to make a tough call—one that came with a hefty price tag. At Tennessee, Ekeler was raking in $575,000 per season. To lure him back to Lincoln, Nebraska had to cough up $625,000.
Ekeler: The “Celebrity” Coach Nebraska Needed?
While Rhule wanted to avoid the “celebrity” coach label, the reality is Ekeler isn’t just a media darling—he’s a proven asset. A Nebraska native and former linebackers coach under Bo Pelini (2008-2010), Ekeler had unfinished business in Lincoln. His track record at Tennessee was a testament to his ability, with zero blocked kicks last season and a top-10 national ranking in punt returns.
In essence, while Rhule might have preferred to resist outside influence, hiring Ekeler was a no-brainer. Whether it was peer pressure or simply undeniable statistics that forced his hand, Nebraska fans can now hope their special teams unit will no longer be the Achilles’ heel of the program.
Rhule’s Controversial Spring Game Decision: A Tactical Move or a Fan Snub?
While Rhule’s decision to hire Ekeler may have been reluctant but necessary, his next move left fans and analysts scratching their heads. The annual Nebraska Spring Game, a beloved tradition at Memorial Stadium, is undergoing a dramatic shift. Instead of the traditional full-team scrimmage, Rhule is opting for a “Fall Sports Preview” on April 26.
Why the sudden change? According to Rhule, it’s all about protecting his players from poaching.
“I hate to say this, but last year we were one of the more televised spring games, and I dealt with a lot of people offering our players a lot of opportunities after that. To go out and bring in a bunch of new players and then showcase them for all the other schools to watch, that doesn’t make a lot of sense to me.”
A bold, strategic maneuver? Perhaps. But not everyone is convinced.
Steve Spurrier Mocks Rhule’s Spring Game Strategy
Not everyone is buying Rhule’s explanation. College football legend Steve Spurrier didn’t hold back his skepticism. Appearing on Pat Dooley’s podcast, Spurrier dismissed the event with a smirk:
“They’re gonna have passing and kicking contests. I don’t think I’m gonna go to that.”
Ouch. For fans who look forward to seeing their team in action, this new format might feel like a letdown. While Rhule’s efforts to shield his players from poaching are understandable, the decision still carries an element of risk. Will Nebraska’s fanbase support the change, or will they see it as a step backward?
The Verdict: A High-Stakes Offseason for Nebraska Football
Rhule’s offseason has been nothing short of dramatic, calculated, and—at times—controversial. From hesitating to hire a coach fans were clamoring for, to radically altering a sacred spring tradition, the Nebraska HC is making moves that have everyone talking.
The Big Questions Moving Forward:
- Will Mike Ekeler’s special teams expertise turn Nebraska into a powerhouse or was the hype overblown?
- Will the Spring Game shake-up hurt fan engagement, or will Rhule’s defensive approach pay off in the long run?
- Is Rhule’s reluctance to hire “celebrity coaches” a sign of his strong-willed leadership or an indicator that external pressure influences his decision-making?
With the 2025 season on the horizon, Nebraska fans will be watching closely. One thing is certain—whether it’s hiring, strategy, or game-day decisions, Matt Rhule isn’t afraid to shake things up.
