LINCOLN, Neb. - Penn State firing Head Football Coach James Franklin sparked, not quote a rumor-mill, but a series of hypothetical's on social media - one name that keeps popping up, is of course, Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule.

Rhule is a Penn State alum who’s always shown pride and respect for his alma mater, which shined through again during his Monday press conference when asked about the opening. However, he also made it clear Nebraska remains top of mind as they go for back to back road wins for the first time since 2006. 

"I love Penn State, met my wife there, it's my alma mater... Fan since i was born, think I had a Penn State shirt on when I was born. I love Pat Kraft" Rhule said. "I absolutely love it here [Nebraska]. I want us to continue to take the steps needed for us to turn this thing into a beast. Players all around the country want to come here, we have elite facilities, and we have the best fans. I'm just happy to be here."

 

It’s not the first time Matt Rhule’s dealt with coaching rumors or vacancies in his career. He says this predicament is a lot better than the one in his previous job with the Carolina Panthers, where he spent the season on the hot seat. But this, per Rhule, is just college football in 2025.

"This is because our players are so good, but when we were 5-3, you think anyone called me then? You think when we were 5-1 last year anyone called me then? This is part of the deal," Rhule said. "I'm the Huskers coach this is a great job. I'm not frustrated."

Nebraska takes on Minnesota on a short week, kicking off with the Gophers at 7:00 p.m. CT on FOX. 

The Huskers will be wearing their all-white road uniforms for the first time this season.