When Matt Rhule arrived in Lincoln in late 2022, Nebraska football was in dire need of a reboot. The once-proud program had endured years of underperformance, missing bowl games since 2016 and falling out of national relevance. But Rhule, known for rebuilding struggling programs at Temple and Baylor, brought with him a blueprint rooted in culture, development, and toughness—a plan he calls “building it brick by brick.”
Now, after a 2024 season that ended with a 7–6 record and a hard-fought win over Boston College in the Pinstripe Bowl, it’s clear that Rhule’s vision is beginning to take hold.
Rebuilding the Culture
From day one, Rhule made culture his top priority. He focused on building trust within the locker room, fostering a sense of brotherhood among players, and reestablishing accountability throughout the program. Weekly team dinners and open lines of communication helped create a supportive environment—a stark contrast to the instability of previous years.
“Everything starts with culture,” Rhule has said. “Before we win on the field, we have to win in how we treat each other.”
Developing Talent, Not Just Acquiring It
In an era when the transfer portal often becomes a quick fix, Rhule has leaned into long-term player development. His staff emphasizes fundamentals and individual growth, aiming to mold recruits into well-rounded athletes over time. Players like running back Gabe Ervin and defensive lineman Ty Robinson have shown marked improvement, reflecting Rhule’s philosophy of investing in player potential.
Rather than overhaul the roster through the portal, Rhule has sought a balance—using it selectively while prioritizing high school recruiting.
A Return to Physical Football
Nebraska was once synonymous with physical dominance, and Rhule has made it a mission to bring that back. Practices under his regime are demanding and detail-oriented, focusing on physicality, tackling, and line play.
The offensive scheme blends old-school toughness with modern flair, including spread concepts and run-pass options. The goal? To control the line of scrimmage and wear opponents down—just as Nebraska did in its championship years.
Recruiting the Right Fit
Rhule’s recruiting approach is strategic and culture-focused. Nebraska’s 2024 class ranked 16th nationally and featured five of the top six players in the state—a major step in securing in-state talent.
But it’s not just about rankings. Rhule seeks players who fit the program’s values and are eager to embrace the hard work required to rebuild something meaningful. That mix of talent and character is already reshaping the team’s identity.
Defensive Identity and Discipline
Defensive coordinator Tony White has been instrumental in implementing a more aggressive and disciplined defense, using a 3–3–5 scheme that emphasizes versatility and speed. The unit improved steadily throughout the 2024 season, with players like Isaac Gifford stepping into key leadership roles.
This defensive resurgence is helping to restore Nebraska’s reputation as a team that can physically dominate opponents on both sides of the ball.
Connecting with Husker Nation
Beyond the Xs and Os, Rhule understands Nebraska football is deeply personal to its fans. He has worked tirelessly to rebuild relationships with alumni, former players, and the broader Husker community. Through social media, community events, and a visible presence around campus, he’s helped restore pride and energy to the program.
Academic performance and character development have also been key pillars of his approach, ensuring players grow into leaders off the field.
What Comes Next?
Nebraska’s 2024 season marked a turning point. With a winning record and bowl victory under their belts, the Huskers are positioned to build further in 2025 and beyond.
Rhule’s method is not about shortcuts. It’s a deliberate, foundational rebuild focused on character, consistency, and competitive edge. For a program longing to reclaim its place among college football’s elite, that steady, brick-by-brick approach may be exactly what Nebraska needs.
