Nebraska’s football team concluded the regular season with a record of 7-5 (4-4 Big Ten), but concerns remain about a defense that struggled in critical areas. The team permitted an average of 23.0 points and 171.3 rushing yards per game, ranking among the most permissive defenses in college football. Although Nebraska’s pass defense was commendable, allowing only 141.1 passing yards per game, the overall unit displayed inconsistency, suffering notable losses such as a 37-10 defeat at Penn State and a recent 40-16 loss to Iowa.
Following the disappointing finish, Sean Callahan of HuskerOnline reported that Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule has made the decision to part ways with defensive coordinator John Butler. This announcement came shortly after the loss to Iowa, exacerbating concerns about late-season defensive struggles and prompting questions about the future direction of the program.
Butler joined Nebraska after over three decades of coaching experience, which included a significant stint in the NFL coaching defensive backs and a pass-game coordinator role. His time with the Buffalo Bills was particularly noteworthy; during his six seasons there from 2018 to 2023, the Bills maintained a top-five pass defense on five occasions. Butler first came to Nebraska as a secondary coach in July 2024 and was elevated to defensive coordinator in December of that year after Tony White stepped down.
Rhule, who took the helm as head coach on November 26, 2022, and signed an eight-year, $74 million contract, had previously demonstrated his coaching prowess by revitalizing Temple and Baylor into competitive national programs. Despite a strong start, his tenure at Nebraska has seen a mixed result, with a record of 19-18 over three seasons. The recent slump, especially defensively, has raised concerns, but the university recently extended his contract through 2032, indicating confidence in his ability to lead the program.
As the Huskers prepare for their final bowl game, Rhule is expected to prioritize staffing decisions, aiming to address the challenges his team faced this season and looking forward to building a stronger defense for the future. This proactive approach could signal a hopeful turn as Nebraska seeks to regain its footing in the competitive landscape of college football.