Paul Finebaum Names Big Ten Coach Who Will Elevate His Program to National Relevance

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jaron Spor | Last updated Jun 25, 2025 10:00 AM ET

When a program decides to hire a new coach after firing the previous one, the hope is that changes will occur and the new coach can lead the team to prominence.

Some programs find the right coach immediately, while others go through several candidates before making an excellent hire. This has been the case for the Nebraska Cornhuskers, a program with a storied history, boasting a record of 889-405-38 and five national championships.

However, Nebraska has not been a national championship contender since Tom Osborne stepped down after the 1997 season. The Cornhuskers are now working under their sixth coach, Matt Rhule.

ESPN's Paul Finebaum expressed on his show, "The Paul Finebaum Show," that he believes Rhule is the right person to help the Cornhuskers return to prominence.

"I think he has a chance to bring that program to prominence," Finebaum said. "Not maybe to where it used to be because that's impossible. But I think he's the right person."

Finebaum said that Nebraska has shown improvement under Rhule during his first two seasons. He noted that the progress could have been even greater if not for several close matches that didn't go the Cornhuskers’ way.

He concluded by expressing confidence that Rhule will elevate Nebraska to a top-tier program in the Big Ten, a status it has struggled to maintain since transitioning from the Big 12.

While Finebaum acknowledged that there is still a significant challenge ahead to reach the level of the Ohio State Buckeyes, Michigan Wolverines, Oregon Ducks and Penn State Nittany Lions, he believes Rhule is the right man for the task.

ESPN's Football Power Index (FPI) also has a positive outlook on the Cornhuskers, projecting them to finish sixth in the Big Ten, behind the four teams mentioned, as well as the USC Trojans.

The FPI projects Nebraska will achieve a record of 7-5 this season, which would mark their best regular-season performance under Rhule. Last season, Nebraska finished 6-6 but won its bowl game, ultimately ending the season 7-6.

The Cornhuskers will open their season on the road against the Cincinnati Bearcats at 9:00 P.M. ET on Aug. 28.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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