Since Penn State fired James Franklin, more than a few insiders have claimed Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule is the top candidate to replace him. When Rhule addressed the media on Monday, he didn't exactly put the rumors to rest that he might take the job, even as he carefully laid out why he loves Lincoln.
The worst part of all of this, for Husker fans and players, is that the rumors are likely to be flying around for weeks, if not months. The Nittany Lions aren't expected to hire a new head coach until after the regular season at least. They have an interim coach in place and not much to play for as their playoff hunt is over. However, there is one clause in Rhule's contract that could shed light on how close he might be to leaving if there's movement in that direction.
Matt Rhule’s Nebraska contract clause could shape the Penn State speculation
As industry analyst Matt Brown pointed out earlier this week, part of Rhule's deal with Nebraska includes a clause that would force him to let AD Troy Dannen know should he want to engage in contract negotiations. In fact, he has to inform Dannen even if he just talks to Penn State, mainly so NU can deal with the rumors knowing all the facts.
Another clause from Matt Rhule's contract at Nebraska that is worth remembering over the next uh, few weeks:
— Matt Brown (@MattBrownEP) October 14, 2025
(via the Extra Points Library) pic.twitter.com/qoB8sT0IT6
Obviously, Dannen won't announce that Rhule is talking to Penn State if he's informed. But should such information arrive in NU's offices, there's a very good chance it will leak for one reason or another.
Of course, it's also possible it's already leaked, and that's why so many national analysts are predicting the Nebraska football head coach is a top candidate for Penn State. What is clear is that this whole situation is just getting started, and Husker fans will be on the edge of their seats for weeks, if not months, before real clarity surfaces.