Rhule defends staff, cites turnover margin after Nebraska loss
The head coach used a 19-minute opening statement to address team cohesion, the role of Washington's quarterback, and an incident involving his daughter.
By Ethan Cook ·
Nebraska Head Coach Matt Rhule held a lengthy press conference on Monday to address the Huskers' narrow defeat to Washington on Saturday. The session began with a 19-minute opening statement in which Rhule discussed the team's review of the game, the defensive effort, and the impact of a three-turnover deficit.
"The reality of that game was, it was a missed opportunity," Rhule said. He credited Washington quarterback Demond Williams, who entered the game in the fourth quarter, for his ability to run. Rhule noted that the defense had to use a spy to track Williams, describing him as an All-American who could run.
The coaching staff reviewed the entire game on Sunday night. Rhule said the players are adults and have the right to an opinion about what went wrong. He emphasized that when players fail to make plays, it is often an institutional issue rather than an individual one. "If you want to believe that when we win, that you helped us win, then when we lose, you have to helped us lose," Rhule said.
Rhule praised the commitment of several players, including Anthony Colandrea, Daniel Kaelin, Mason Goldman, and Jacory Barney Jr. He highlighted Barney's performance against Oregon, noting that the player broke a rib and continued to play. "I love Jacory Barney. You could not get me to turn on him in a million years," Rhule said.
The coach explained that Colandrea did not speak to the media after the loss because he was unaware until Sunday night. Rhule suggested the quarterback may have been checked out by doctors. He also revealed that he was dealing with an incident between a fan and his 13-year-old daughter during that time. "I'm not gonna keep coaching it it means my kids are gonna grow up screwed up," Rhule said, adding that his daughters told him they were tough.
With a short week ahead, the team held its Monday practice on Sunday. For the upcoming game against Illinois on Friday, Offensive Coordinator Dana Holgorsen, Offensive Line Coach Geep Wade, and Safeties Coach Tyler Yelk will sit in the press box. Rhule said no other coaching changes would be made, and John Hohl would handle field goals and extra points. The staff plans to prepare for Illinois' offensive tempo and defensive tackling.
Rhule said he will continue to fight for the fans, but his family will always come first. The Huskers head to Illinois on Friday, where they will face the Illini offense and defense.
