The Nebraska Cornhuskers have reached a pivotal moment in their football journey. After making it to a bowl game for the first time since 2016, head coach Matt Rhule is not resting on his laurels. Instead, he is focused on elevating the program to new heights. The excitement around Lincoln is palpable, and the road ahead is filled with opportunities and challenges.
Building Through Recruitment and the Transfer Portal
A significant part of Rhule’s strategy involves enhancing the roster through recruiting and the Transfer Portal. This approach is essential for Nebraska to become more competitive in the ever-evolving landscape of college football. Rhule believes the program is gaining traction in these critical areas.
“Recruiting is all about being in the conversation,” Rhule stated. “When we lost players in the past, it was often to programs we aspire to compete with. Now, I see us in discussions with schools we want to be compared to. That’s a positive sign.”
Currently, Nebraska boasts the 36th-ranked transfer class for the 2025 cycle, according to the On3 College Football Team Transfer Portal Rankings. This class features 26 players who have departed and 16 new additions to the program. The numbers reflect a proactive approach to building a competitive team.
Nebraska’s NIL Collective: A Game Changer
Central to this recruitment strategy is Nebraska’s NIL collective, known as 1890 Nebraska. This group has played a crucial role in helping the program adapt to the new era of college football, where financial backing can make all the difference. Rhule emphasized the importance of this support, stating, “The investment from the Peed family and 1890 has allowed us to be competitive. Schools that have spent the most have seen the best results, and we are no different.”
As revenue sharing approaches, Rhule is keenly aware of the changing landscape. He noted that the financial commitment from supporters has put Nebraska in a position to compete effectively. “We’ve seen it in the College Football Playoff: those who invest heavily often reap the rewards. It’s a reality we must embrace,” he added.
High School Recruiting: A Foundation for the Future
While the Transfer Portal is crucial, Rhule understands that high school recruiting remains a cornerstone of building a successful program. He has been actively visiting high schools, engaging with players, and making connections. “I’m in high schools now, talking to players. It’s exciting to see them recognize me after multiple visits,” he said.
Rhule’s experience in the NFL has given him a unique perspective on recruiting. He aims to create a welcoming environment for potential recruits. “We need to showcase what Lincoln has to offer. The more we can get people on campus and involved in our programs, the better our recruiting efforts will be,” he explained.
Creating a Winning Culture
At the heart of Rhule’s vision is the need to foster a winning culture. He believes that success on the field will naturally attract more talent. “We’ve got to win. At the end of the day, people want to be part of a winning program,” he stressed.
The upcoming Class of 2025 will be finalized on Wednesday, February 5th, during the second National Signing Day. Currently, Nebraska holds the 21st-ranked class in this recruiting cycle. Following spring practice, another Transfer Portal window will open, providing additional opportunities for roster improvement.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Nebraska Football
As the 2024 season wraps up, the focus shifts to the future. Rhule is determined to build a program that not only competes but thrives at the highest level. The groundwork laid through strategic recruiting, financial investment, and a commitment to winning is setting the stage for Nebraska to reclaim its place among college football’s elite.
The enthusiasm surrounding the program is infectious. Fans are eager to see how Rhule’s vision unfolds, and the excitement is building as the team prepares for the next chapter. With a solid foundation and a clear plan, Nebraska is poised to make significant strides in the coming years.
In this ever-changing landscape of college football, the Nebraska Cornhuskers are ready to embrace the challenges ahead. With a focus on recruitment, financial backing, and a commitment to winning, the future looks bright for this storied program. The journey is just beginning, and the Cornhuskers are determined to make their mark.
