Today on Hurrdat Sports Radio, Sam McKewon, sports editor from the Omaha World-Herald, joins hosts Damon Benning and Ravi Lulla to discuss the current state of Nebraska football under head coach Matt Rhule. The discussion touches on various aspects of the team’s recent performances, challenges and what lies ahead as they navigate through a pivotal second half of the season.
Matt Rhule’s Message: Focus on Mentality Over Execution
McKewon emphasizes that Rhule’s focus is on shifting the team’s mentality rather than solely improving execution. According to McKewon, Rhule believes that fostering a stronger mental approach will naturally improve Nebraska’s consistency on the field. “He’s trying to instill a mindset where the players are focused and tough every week,” McKewon notes.
This focus on mental resilience has become especially important as Nebraska enters the critical November stretch. With key games looming, Rhule’s challenge is to ensure that the team doesn’t revert to old habits. McKewon explains that Rhule’s approach is about making sure Nebraska doesn’t “act like frontrunners,” but instead brings a consistent work ethic to each game.
The Evolution of Nebraska’s Offense
They then turned toward Nebraska’s on-field performance. McKewon acknowledges that while the offense has shown improvement, there is still room for growth. He particularly points out the need for more involvement from emerging talent like Jaylen Lloyd, a young offensive player with significant potential. “He’s highly competitive and tough, a guy they need to utilize more,” McKewon says.
Lulla and Benning discuss with McKewon the chemistry between quarterbacks and receivers, which is still a work in progress. They highlight how players like Jacory Barney Jr. have become reliable targets for Nebraska’s quarterback, but expanding the offensive options is necessary for long-term success.
Defensive Adjustments: A Learning Process
Defensively, McKewon was optimistic about the unit’s growth but also recognizes that adjustments are still being made under the current coaching staff. He discusses how Nebraska’s defense, especially in the secondary, has had to adapt to different coaching philosophies. The team has been working on balancing the approaches of their new defensive coordinator and position coaches, who bring unique experiences from the NFL.
Despite these growing pains, McKewon believes that Nebraska’s defense, particularly the secondary, has the potential to play its best football in the remaining games of the season. With the upcoming matchups against strong passing offenses, such as USC and Wisconsin, the defense has an opportunity to prove itself.
A Range of Outcomes for the Season
As Nebraska heads into the final stretch of the season with a 5-3 record, McKewon brings up the broad range of possible outcomes, from finishing 5-7 to potentially ending the season 9-3. He stresses that while the team has a chance to exceed expectations, it’s ultimately up to them to execute and stay mentally focused each week. McKewon finishes with, “They have an opportunity to have a really notable season, or one that ends in disappointment.”
Nebraska’s success this season hinges on their ability to internalize Rhule’s message of mental toughness and consistency. With a mix of promising young talent, evolving offensive strategies and a defense still finding its footing, the Huskers have the potential to make a significant impact in the final weeks of the season. However, as McKewon wisely notes, the team must prove it on the field.
