Matt Rhule is embracing the future of college football at Nebraska, particularly with the new revenue sharing model that promises long-term sustainability. As the landscape of college athletics evolves, Rhule is confident that Nebraska is well-positioned to thrive in this changing environment.
Honesty and Transparency with Players
Rhule emphasizes the importance of honesty when it comes to recruiting. He believes that players, whether they are coming straight out of high school or transferring from another program, deserve clear and upfront communication. “I don’t want to steer them wrong if they’re coming to Nebraska,” he stated, highlighting the school’s commitment to integrity in its recruitment process.
Nebraska’s Unique Position in Revenue Sharing
The Nebraska program stands out in the current college football landscape. “The revenue share is coming, we’re different,” Rhule explained. Many schools are scrambling to adjust their financial models, with some coaches reportedly writing checks as high as $14 million to meet new demands. In contrast, Nebraska is taking a more measured approach. “The great thing about a young person, if they come to Nebraska, is like, we don’t take money from the students. Like, this is all through our budget. And so it’s sustainable,” Rhule added.
Challenges for Other Programs
Rhule is not shy about addressing the challenges faced by other programs. “A lot of other schools, rev share is not going to be sustainable,” he warned. While some institutions may offer enticing financial packages to attract talent, they risk disappointing recruits down the line. Nebraska, however, is committed to a business model that aligns with its long-term vision. “We feel like we can just stand on business like, hey, this is what we said,” he stated confidently.
Nebraska’s NIL Collective: 1890
Rhule also touched on Nebraska’s NIL collective, known as 1890. He believes it’s crucial for potential recruits to understand how this initiative works and the values it embodies. “I think it’s really important that people hear some of the stories. I mean, you guys walk through the parking lot you don’t see like, Lamborghinis and Ferraris out there,” he remarked. Instead, he noted that many players are focused on investing in their futures and supporting their families back home.
Roster Construction: Lessons from the NFL
With the introduction of a 105-man roster limit in college football, Rhule is drawing from his experience with the Carolina Panthers. “I think the first thing you do is operate off the first 53, which we’ve actually tweaked to 57 because college football’s a little different,” he explained during a recent press conference. This adaptation reflects the unique challenges and opportunities presented by college football, allowing for a more tailored approach to roster management.
Building a Winning Culture
Rhule’s strategy goes beyond numbers; it’s about building a cohesive team culture. “After that, I think you want to start to have the semblance of a second 53, but it’s really the first team of that,” he said. He understands that the bottom of the roster can play a vital role in shaping team dynamics. “There are guys that are flexible at practice. Like, Roman Mangini. He could be a starter next year. I don’t know. But he’s going to be on the team because there’s no one that makes practice go better than Roman Mangini,” Rhule praised. Mangini’s impact on the practice field exemplifies how important team chemistry is for success.
The Future of Nebraska Football
As Rhule navigates this new era of college football, he remains optimistic about Nebraska’s trajectory. The combination of a sustainable revenue-sharing model, a commitment to transparency with recruits, and a focus on team culture positions the Cornhuskers for success. With a clear vision and a solid foundation, Nebraska is ready to make its mark in the evolving landscape of college football.
In a time of rapid change, Rhule’s approach reflects a deep understanding of what it takes to build a successful program. As Nebraska fans look ahead, there is a palpable sense of excitement about the future. With a commitment to integrity, sustainability, and culture, the Cornhuskers are poised to rise in the ranks of college football.
