Matt Rhule Says Nebraska Is “Close to Fixed” Ahead of 2025 Season

Originally posted on College Football News
By Mathey Gibson | Last updated Jul 23, 2025 2:52 AM ET

Matt Rhule isn’t backing down from expectations in Year 3 at Nebraska.

After a 7–6 season in 2024, the Huskers' head coach made it clear at Big Ten Media Days on Tuesday that 2025 is about taking the next step.

“Yes, we have to win more. That’s the deal,” Rhule said. “But we came into a program that we knew was going to take a little bit of time to fix. I think it’s close to fixed.”

Nebraska finished just 3–6 in conference play last season, but Rhule remains confident that the foundation is finally strong enough to compete consistently.

He praised the roster’s speed and athleticism, hinting that the Huskers now have the kind of team that can surprise opponents.

That confidence starts with quarterback Dylan Raiola. The former five-star recruit had his ups and downs as a freshman in 2024 but gained valuable experience in the process.

Rhule, who rebuilt Temple and Baylor before taking the Carolina Panthers job, isn’t shying away from pressure this time on the plains.

“We believe we can play with anybody,” he said. “We’re going to go make a run at this thing this year.”

The Big Ten schedule will be a test, with matchups against powerhouses like Michigan, USC, Penn State and Iowa, but Rhule sees a team prepared for the challenge.

If Nebraska can finally shake its reputation as a rebuild-in-progress, 2025 might mark the return of a program once known for dominance.

Rhule clearly thinks that moment is coming, and soon.

This article first appeared on College Football News and was syndicated with permission.

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