11/07/2026 01:19:00
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11/07 13:17 CST Dana Holgorsen fired as Nebraska's offensive coordinator after
losing streak reaches 4 games
Dana Holgorsen fired as Nebraska's offensive coordinator after losing streak
reaches 4 games
By ERIC OLSON
AP College Football Writer
Five days after he called Dana Holgorsen "one of the best offensive minds of
our generation," Nebraska coach Matt Rhule fired his offensive coordinator
Saturday in the wake of the Cornhuskers' loss at Illinois a day earlier.
Co-offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Glenn Thomas will take over
play-calling duties for the Huskers (5-4, 2-4 Big Ten), who have scored just 54
points combined in four straight losses.
"Like so many of you, I am angry, I am disappointed and I am frustrated with
our results this season," coach Matt Rhule said in a statement. "As the head
coach, I am ultimately responsible for every aspect of our program ---
including wins and losses --- and it is my responsibility to make changes when
they are warranted.
"While there are many areas that need improvement, our offensive plan and
execution is simply not working. Earlier today, I relieved offensive
coordinator Dana Holgorsen of his duties. As I have recently shared, Dana has a
fantastic offensive mind, he is a strong leader, and he has done great work
here at Nebraska. But simply, we need a change."
Nebraska ranks 12th in the Big Ten Conference and 96th nationally in scoring in
conference games, at 22.2 points per game.
Rhule defended Holgorsen on Monday, waving off calls for his job. Holgorsen was
widely criticized for abandoning the running game and having Anthony Colandrea
attempt 44 passes in a 17-10 loss to Washington.
"Dana Holgorsen is one of the best offensive minds of our generation," Rhule
said.
But the Huskers again were plagued by penalties, missed field goals and
questionable play-calling four days later during the 24-13 loss at Illinois.
Nebraska came away with points on just two of its nine possessions against the
Illini. Over the last four games, the Huskers have scored on nine of 46.
The Huskers averaged 246 yards rushing against a light nonconference schedule.
That has dropped to 141 yards per game against Big Ten opponents.
Anthony Colandrea has completed 61% of his passes with eight touchdowns and six
interceptions in six conference games after hitting on 69% with eight TDs and
one interception in three nonconference games. His total of seven interceptions
is tied for last in the Big Ten.
"I will continue to evaluate our program through the season and certainly at
its conclusion and make additional changes where I believe they will help us
win," Rhule said. "The Nebraska fan base has high expectations and I embrace
them, and I also know of their passionate support of the young men in our
program. I hope they will continue to be there for our players with very
important games still ahead. Our entire program is determined to finish this
season strong."
Holgorsen was in his second full season as offensive coordinator. He left his
job as an offensive consultant at TCU in November 2024 to take the same job at
Nebraska and was appointed OC a week later when Rhule moved Marcus Satterfield
to another role.
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