From the Sidelines:
Coaching is the backbone of any successful football program, and at Nebraska, the leadership and direction provided by the coaching staff are critical to the Cornhuskers’ future success. Since his arrival in Lincoln, head coach Matt Rhule has made several key hires to ensure that his vision for Nebraska football becomes a reality. These coaching staff changes, along with Rhule’s proven track record as a program builder, have injected new energy into a program looking to return to its winning ways.
As the 2024 season approaches, Nebraska’s new-look coaching staff is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the team’s identity, improving performance on the field, and cultivating a winning culture. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key coaching hires and what they mean for Nebraska football moving forward.
Marcus Satterfield – Offensive Coordinator
One of Matt Rhule’s most significant coaching hires was bringing in Marcus Satterfield as Nebraska’s offensive coordinator. Satterfield has worked alongside Rhule at both Temple and Baylor, and the two share a deep understanding of what it takes to build a balanced, effective offense. Known for his innovative play-calling and ability to develop quarterbacks, Satterfield brings a wealth of experience to the Cornhuskers.
Satterfield’s offensive philosophy revolves around balance—blending a strong running game with a dynamic passing attack. He’s committed to establishing a physical identity at the line of scrimmage while also utilizing Nebraska’s talent at the skill positions to stretch the field. With a quarterback room that includes five-star recruit Dylan Raiola and other talented passers like Jeff Sims and Daniel Kaelin, Satterfield’s ability to develop and deploy his quarterbacks will be critical to the team’s success.
“We want to be balanced,” Satterfield said. “We have the ability to run the ball effectively, but we also want to take advantage of our weapons in the passing game. The goal is to be unpredictable and make defenses adjust to us.”
Satterfield’s familiarity with Rhule’s system has already made the transition smoother for the players, and his emphasis on discipline and execution has been a major focus in training camp. As Nebraska works to improve its offensive production, Satterfield’s ability to get the most out of his players will be key.
Tony White – Defensive Coordinator
Another major coaching hire was Tony White, who takes over as Nebraska’s defensive coordinator. White, known for his innovative 3-3-5 defensive scheme, brings a fresh approach to the Blackshirts’ defense. His system, which emphasizes versatility, speed, and aggression, is designed to disrupt opposing offenses and create turnovers.
Under White’s leadership, the defense has adopted a more aggressive mindset, with a focus on pressuring the quarterback and forcing mistakes. The 3-3-5 allows Nebraska to adjust to a variety of offensive styles, making the defense more adaptable and unpredictable.
“Tony’s a guy who knows how to get the best out of his players,” Rhule said. “His defense is built around playing fast, being physical, and creating chaos. That’s exactly what we need.”
White’s ability to develop Nebraska’s defensive talent will be crucial to the Blackshirts’ resurgence. With players like Ty Robinson, MJ Sherman, and Isaac Gifford leading the charge, the defense has the potential to be one of the most improved units in the Big Ten. White’s focus on speed and versatility has already made an impact in practice, and Husker fans are excited to see the results on the field.
Donovan Raiola – Offensive Line Coach
Perhaps no position group is more important to Nebraska’s success in 2024 than the offensive line, and Donovan Raiola is tasked with ensuring that the Huskers dominate in the trenches. As Nebraska’s offensive line coach, Raiola has worked tirelessly to develop a unit that can protect the quarterback and create running lanes for the team’s talented backs.
Raiola’s focus has been on improving technique, communication, and discipline along the offensive line. Penalties, missed assignments, and inconsistent play have plagued Nebraska’s line in recent years, but under Raiola’s guidance, the unit has made significant strides.
“We’ve got to be tough and disciplined up front,” Raiola said. “Everything starts with the offensive line. If we’re not doing our job, nothing else works.”
With veterans like Ben Scott, Turner Corcoran, and Teddy Prochazka leading the way, Raiola’s unit has the potential to be one of the strengths of Nebraska’s offense. The development of the offensive line will be crucial to the success of the Huskers’ balanced attack, and Raiola’s influence is expected to pay dividends throughout the season.
Corey Campbell – Strength and Conditioning Coach
Building a winning football team starts in the weight room, and Nebraska’s strength and conditioning program is in good hands with Corey Campbell. As the strength and conditioning coach, Campbell has been instrumental in transforming the Huskers into a stronger, faster, and more disciplined team.
Campbell’s philosophy focuses on building strength, endurance, and mental toughness, helping players prepare for the physical demands of the Big Ten season. His approach is designed to develop well-rounded athletes who can maintain peak performance throughout the season.
“Coach Campbell has been huge for us,” said linebacker Isaac Gifford. “He pushes us every day to get better, and we’ve all seen the results. We’re faster, stronger, and more confident because of the work we’ve put in with him.”
Campbell’s influence has been particularly noticeable in the development of younger players, many of whom have made significant gains in strength and conditioning under his guidance. His role in keeping the team healthy and prepared for the grind of the season cannot be overstated.
Evan Cooper – Defensive Backs Coach
Evan Cooper’s work with Nebraska’s defensive backs has been a crucial part of the team’s defensive rebuild. Known for his ability to develop defensive backs into versatile, playmaking defenders, Cooper has been tasked with improving a unit that struggled with consistency in recent seasons.
Under Cooper’s tutelage, Nebraska’s secondary is expected to play an integral role in Tony White’s 3-3-5 defense. With five defensive backs on the field, the secondary will need to be aggressive in coverage while also providing support against the run. Cooper’s coaching style emphasizes technique, discipline, and the ability to make plays on the ball—traits that will be critical to the success of Nebraska’s defense in 2024.
“We’re going to be physical, and we’re going to make plays,” Cooper said. “We’re teaching our guys to trust their instincts and play fast.”
Players like Quinton Newsome and Omar Brown have already flourished under Cooper’s guidance, and the secondary is expected to take a big step forward in 2024. Cooper’s ability to develop depth and prepare younger players for significant roles will be key as Nebraska navigates a tough Big Ten schedule.
A Unified Vision: What These Coaching Changes Mean for Nebraska
The key to Nebraska’s success under Matt Rhule is the unified vision shared by the entire coaching staff. Each coach brings their own expertise and unique approach to the program, but they are all aligned in their commitment to building a culture of toughness, discipline, and accountability.
For the players, having a coaching staff that is invested in their development—both as athletes and as individuals—has been a game-changer. The emphasis on relationships, hard work, and personal growth has created a sense of unity within the team, and that culture shift is expected to pay off on the field.
“This coaching staff has brought a whole new energy to the program,” said defensive lineman Ty Robinson. “Everyone is on the same page, and we’re all working toward the same goal.”
As Nebraska continues to rebuild, the impact of these coaching changes will be felt not only in 2024 but for years to come. With a staff that prioritizes development, discipline, and a winning culture, the future of Cornhusker football looks bright.
