Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule announced on Saturday that he has relieved offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen of his duties following the Cornhuskers’ fourth consecutive loss. Glenn Thomas, the team’s co-offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, will take over play-calling responsibilities.
Rhule stated in a team announcement that the decision was made after Nebraska’s offense failed to produce consistent results. The Huskers have scored just 54 points over their last four games, averaging 13.5 points per game, a significant decline from their season-opening five-game stretch where they averaged 43.6 points.
Rhule acknowledged Holgorsen’s contributions but emphasized the need for change. “While I still respect Dana’s coaching ability and leadership, our offensive plan and execution is simply not working,” Rhule said. “It is my responsibility to make changes when they are warranted.”
Context and Background
Nebraska’s offensive struggles culminated in a 24-13 loss to Illinois on Friday, a game in which the Huskers outgained the Illini 426-376 but committed 11 penalties for 82 yards and failed on three fourth-down attempts. The loss extended Nebraska’s losing streak to four games, dropping their record to 5-4 after a 5-0 start to the season.
Rhule had publicly defended Holgorsen as recently as Monday, calling him “one of the best offensive minds of our generation” and stating he was “steady in the boat” regarding his staff. However, the team’s offensive decline prompted Rhule to make a change. Holgorsen had moved from the sideline to the coaches’ box for the Illinois game in an attempt to adjust his perspective, but the adjustment did not yield improved results.
Glenn Thomas Takes Over Play-Calling Duties
Thomas, who has worked with Rhule at Temple and Baylor, will now lead Nebraska’s offensive play-calling. During his tenure at Baylor, Thomas helped develop quarterbacks P.J. Walker and Charlie Brewer. He also has prior coordinator experience at Arizona State and UNLV.
Rhule expressed confidence in Thomas, stating that he brings a long working relationship and familiarity with the program’s offensive schemes. Thomas’ immediate challenge will be reversing Nebraska’s offensive decline and improving the team’s scoring efficiency.
Holgorsen joined Nebraska in November 2024 and coordinated the offense for the final four games of that season before returning full time. This season marked his second full season as Nebraska’s offensive coordinator.