Matt Rhule’s time with the Carolina Panthers was shorter than anticipated when he signed a seven-year deal in 2020. Just five weeks into his third season, owner David Tepper dismissed him following a 1-4 start. Despite this setback, Rhule has rebounded and is now preparing for his first season as the head coach at Nebraska.
Rhule plans to use his experiences in Carolina as valuable lessons, aiming for a significantly different outcome at Nebraska. “Going through the fire in Carolina was a purifying fire that melts away all the impurities, all the hubris, all the worrying about stuff that doesn’t matter,” Rhule told ESPN’s Pete Thamel. “I learned very much to worry about what matters. I have a focus and a desire in me. I watched what my kids had to go through in Carolina, and we’re not going to let ’em go through that here.”
During his three years with the Panthers, Rhule’s record was 11-27, including two five-win seasons in 2020 and 2021. The offense struggled, ranking 29th in the league for plays over 20 yards, and he failed to identify a franchise quarterback post-Cam Newton.
The NFL might not have suited Rhule’s coaching style as he thrived at Temple and Baylor before transitioning to the pros. His new role at Nebraska could be a better fit, potentially leading to more successful football. “We can absolutely be a national power,” Rhule said about Nebraska’s future. “I think we can be relevant in the [new world], as the College Football Playoff goes to 12 teams.”
As Rhule seeks to redefine his career at the college level, the Panthers appear to be on a better path. They have hired former Colts head coach Frank Reich and drafted Alabama quarterback Bryce Young with the No. 1 overall pick.
