Dane Key has already been singled out as a leader for the Nebraska football team thanks to earning a single-digit designation. Earlier this week, he showed how he's going to be a leader both on and off the field when he talked about why he believes Husker head coach Matt Rhule is about to drag the Huskers' program to the next level.
The Kentucky Wildcats transfer, who will wear No. 6 this season, has talked about wanting to be a leader for Nebraska before. He is walking the walk as well as talking the talk as fall camp winds down and the Huskers start to officially prep for their first game against the Cincinnati Bearcats on August 28.
Dane Key is driven by Nebraska coaches in a way he's never been
"I've never been demanded of so much effort from a coach before," Key said during a recent press conference. "I already had Coach Shorts, so he already demands so much, but when there's two people demanding the most out of you because they know what you can do and they know what you can be in the future."
“I’ve never been demanded of so much effort from a coach before.”
— Hail Varsity (@HailVarsity) August 12, 2025
Dane Key discusses the intensity and work ethic required under Matt Rhule’s leadership. pic.twitter.com/hLzi5XhnFB
Key went on to explain he's excited for what the season holds in part because he feels driven by both men. Especially when his energy might be ebbing a bit.
"Why would you want it any other way? I mean, it's all day. He sees you tired and walk into a meeting, he's going to jump right on you. Like, why are you tired? Sorry, coach, I didn't mean to."
Key, who caught 126 passes for 1,870 yards and 14 touchdowns over three seasons for Kentucky, is looking to wrap up his college football career with the Nebraska football team. He's looking to take things to the next level. If he's successful in doing so, the Huskers will be massive beneficiaries.