This past week’s game felt like a shot to Husker nation. We saw a team fall apart, a team without heart, a team lacking passion. This is very uncharacteristic for Matt Rhule led teams. Culture is of utmost importance in a Rhule led team, and it’s very hard for culture to be held together when the binding factor is unsure of his position. In the past the Huskers have had this issue of a coach leaving, but it wasn’t for this reason. When you look at it, these players are bought in, that’s why we saw fourth quarter comebacks this year and closing out games late. They knew they were playing for someone, for family. These coaches are not replaceable in the eyes of these young men, they are a father like figure. Someone who they fully trust if bought in. Now their father figure is saying, well i may leave if asked because a “better” position is open.
I do not like to see this as it is a letdown for players. We all know that this is a common occurrence in college football, but when someone repeatedly talks about how great a place is, then runs from it when the right opportunity arises, does that show dedication or just talk? Don’t get me wrong, this is not an article talking bad about Matt Rhule, I think he is a great coach. There wouldn’t be this thought in my head if he wasn’t. We just saw the letdown in the players’ eyes and actions against Minnesota Friday. It will be hard for these kids to bounce back when they are unsure of their future, it will be hard for them to fight for a staff that is here today but maybe doesn’t want to be? I completely understand Rhule’s decision, whatever it is. Penn State is his alma mater, he grew up a Penn State fan, played for them and now has an opportunity to coach them. Its an opportunity that would be nearly impossible to turn down.
I just ask that if Rhule is staying, he announces it. Leave no doubt in these young kids minds. Yes some of these players make a million dollars plus a year, but that does not make them immune to feelings. In fact, with this much on the line, they may be more affected than we have thought before.
Seeing all these players kneel and pray before and after the games has been moving, it has shown a belief in God, it shows us that there is more going on than the game, but while doing so I ask each and every player to remember Matthew 6:34 when they do so “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”. Put all worries of tomorrow away for they will take care of themselves. Focus on the task at hand and do it in a way which makes you proud to have that “N” on the side of your helmet, and in a way in which the whole state can get behind.