Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule and his football program are using their Week 11 bye to strengthen the team’s offense. According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, the Cornhuskers have hired former head coach Dana Holgorsen, who led teams at Houston and West Virginia, as an offensive consultant. With only three games remaining in the regular season, Holgorsen’s role is set to expand.
Earlier this season, Holgorsen held a similar position with TCU, and under current rules, consulting for multiple programs is allowed, as noted by CBS Sports.
The Cornhuskers (5-4, 2-4 Big Ten) have struggled offensively, scoring only 44 points over a three-game losing streak and surpassing 30 points in just two games this season. A win in any of the remaining games would secure a bowl berth, which could give freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola valuable experience. Nebraska currently ranks 107th nationally in yards per play and 100th in scoring offense.
Raiola has completed 176 of 272 passes (64.7%) for 1,921 yards with 10 touchdowns and eight interceptions. However, he has yet to reach 300 passing yards in a single game.
Here’s what to know about Dana Holgorsen and his potential impact on Nebraska’s offense:Holgorsen most recently served as head coach for Houston from 2019 to 2023, ending his tenure with a 31-28 record. After a difficult season in the Big 12 in 2023, Houston parted ways with Holgorsen, providing him a $14.8 million buyout. His best seasons with the Cougars included a 12-2 record in 2021 and an 8-5 season in 2022. Before joining Houston, Holgorsen spent eight seasons as head coach at West Virginia, achieving a 61-41 record with highlights like a 10-3 season in 2016.
Holgorsen, known for his Air Raid offense roots, played college football as a receiver at St. Ambrose College and later at Iowa Wesleyan, where he learned under coaches Hal Mumme and Mike Leach. His extensive experience with offensive schemes has shaped his coaching philosophy, making him a valuable addition to Nebraska’s staff.
