As Matt Rhule approaches his third year at the helm of Nebraska football, 2025 looms as a defining season for both him and the program. After showing glimpses of progress in his first two years, the pressure is mounting for Rhule to translate potential into consistent results. But is there a world where the Cornhuskers fall short enough for Nebraska to move on from its high-profile coach?
Could Matt Rhule Be Fired After 2025?
While it’s unlikely Nebraska pulls the plug prematurely on Rhule’s long-term deal — an eight-year, $74 million contract signed in 2022 — it’s not out of the question. If 2025 is a disaster, particularly with rising expectations and significant staff investments, athletic director Troy Dannen could be forced to consider drastic changes.
Rhule’s second season in 2024 ended at 7–6 with a bowl win, but the team sputtered late in the year, finishing 3–6 in Big Ten play. Offensively, the Huskers were among the worst in the country, plagued by turnovers and inconsistency. True freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola showed flashes of brilliance but also typical growing pains. Now, with a full year under his belt and improved support around him, the pressure will be on for a much cleaner and more productive offense.
Rhule responded to last season’s shortcomings with bold staff moves, including bringing in veteran defensive coach Phil Snow and naming John Butler defensive coordinator. These hires show that Rhule understands the urgency — but if the results aren’t there, especially against a tougher Big Ten schedule, questions about his long-term future will intensify.
Nebraska’s Ceiling in 2025
In an ideal scenario, Nebraska takes a leap forward. With Raiola developing into one of the conference’s better quarterbacks, and an influx of talent at receiver and along the defensive line, the Huskers could push for 9 or 10 wins. A strong start, improved offensive efficiency, and another stout defensive showing could put Nebraska in contention for a Big Ten title game appearance or at least a high-tier bowl.
This best-case outcome would validate Rhule’s rebuild and energize the fan base. It would also help solidify Nebraska’s recruiting momentum heading into 2026.
Nebraska’s Floor in 2025
On the flip side, if the offense remains turnover-prone and the team fails to win key conference games, another 5–7 or 6–6 season is on the table. In that scenario, bowl eligibility could come down to the final week — again — and the narrative around Rhule would shift from rebuilding optimism to underperformance.
A losing season wouldn’t automatically lead to a firing, but it would turn up the heat significantly. Fans and boosters would want answers, and internal pressure might push Rhule to make additional staff changes or rethink his long-term strategy.
Final Thoughts
Matt Rhule was hired to lead Nebraska out of years of mediocrity, and his tenure has shown early signs of promise. But 2025 is a crucial year. It may not be “make or break” in the contractual sense, but it could determine the direction of the program for the rest of his tenure — and whether the belief in his vision holds strong or begins to fade.
