Matt Rhule's possible 'dangerous mindset' could hold Nebraska back, say analysts
As the Nebraska football team once again sits on the verge of a bowl game, with some doubt as to whether or not they’ll make it, those around Huskers nation are starting to wonder just what the problem is here. Especially since the coaches, at first glance seem to know what it takes to win and know what the team is doing wrong in the clutch. But knowing and doing aren’t coming together.
Earlier this week Hurrdat Sports hosts Ravi Lulla and Damon Benning talked about on critique of Huskers head coach Matt Rhule that could be holding the team back. And both men seem to think it could be a situation where Rhule has become a bit too attached to certain players who have shown him loyalty, so he feels the need to show it back.
“I do think there's a part of him because of the Carolina experience I think has made him super wary of being even a little transactional with people,” Lulla said about what he sees as a potential problem for Nebraska football. “I do think he might be sacrificing potential growth this season to make sure he does right by the older guys.”
Is Nebraska football paying too much deference to veterans?
Being a fan of your players is a dangerous mindset for a coach.
— Hurrdat Sports (@HurrdatSports) November 18, 2024
Today on Hurrdat Sports Radio, @ralulla and @damonbenning discuss how Matt Rhule’s loyalty to older players might be holding Nebraska back.
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“I'm not hating on these guys …” Lulla added. “I do think they're good football players. I think there's a mental block or a physical or emotional block or something so I think there's something that prevents them from playing to their level”
Benning agreed with that assessment and added that he thinks there are some players who the coach knows there’s talent and ability to be better in there. However, the coach is allowing his preferences to win out.
It’s an interesting take, especially when fans hear coaches like Tony White talk about how the team needs to play with “dominant contact.” That wasn’t there against USC on Saturday. Not at all, NU gave up over 400 yards of offense. Including 185 yards on the ground.
So why do the coaches talk about how good the team looks leading up to a game, only to see Nebraska football look so off during it? Having a blindspot for certain players could certainly be one answer.