Following Nebraska’s fourth consecutive loss, Rhule makes a significant coaching move, handing Glenn Thomas responsibility for directing the offense as the Cornhuskers look to turn their season around.
Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule has relieved offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen of his duties following the Cornhuskers’ fourth consecutive loss, signaling an urgent effort to turn around the team’s struggling offense.
The decision came Saturday, one day after Nebraska fell 24-13 to Illinois. The defeat dropped the Cornhuskers to 5-4 overall and 2-4 in Big Ten play, a discouraging turn after opening the season with five straight victories.
Rhule did not hide his frustration with the team's recent performances, acknowledging the disappointing results in a statement.
Like so many of you, I am angry, I am disappointed and I am frustrated with our results this season, Rhule said.
With Holgorsen's departure, co offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Glenn Thomas will assume play calling responsibilities for the remainder of the season.
Thomas previously worked alongside Rhule at Temple and Baylor, giving him familiarity with the head coach's offensive philosophy. His immediate priority will be improving Nebraska's consistency, execution and scoring production after the unit managed just 54 points across its four game bad run.
Holgorsen joined Nebraska in November 2024, initially taking over offensive responsibilities for the final four games of that season. He subsequently served as the program's offensive coordinator during the 2025 and 2026 campaigns.
Before arriving in Lincoln, Holgorsen built an extensive coaching résumé, including head coaching positions at West Virginia 2011-18 and Houston 2019-23.
However, Nebraska's recent offensive struggles ultimately prompted Rhule to make a change as the team attempts to salvage its season.
The Cornhuskers now turn their attention to Rutgers, with Thomas preparing to lead the offense in his first game with play calling responsibilities.
After a promising 5-0 start, Nebraska must find a way to end its losing streak and regain confidence heading into the final stretch of the season. Rhule's decision puts immediate pressure on the coaching staff to deliver improvement.