Nebraska Football Coach Makes Key Staffing Changes
Nebraska Football’s coaching staff is undergoing notable changes as head coach Matt Rhule announced the dismissal of Donovan Raiola, the offensive line coach and uncle to the team’s starting quarterback, Dylan Raiola. This decision marks a significant shift in the coaching lineup as the team prepares for the upcoming bowl game.
In an official statement, Rhule expressed gratitude for Raiola’s service: “I informed Donovan Raiola today that he will not be retained as our offensive line coach. We thank Donovan for his contribution to Nebraska Football over the past four years and wish him the best moving forward.”
Originally brought on board during Scott Frost’s tenure as head coach, Raiola’s performance came under scrutiny after the team allowed 30 quarterback sacks throughout the season, including a staggering nine in a single game against Minnesota. Speculation about his replacement has already begun, with several media outlets reporting that Rhule is eyeing Georgia Tech’s offensive line coach Geep Wade for the role.
Raiola’s dismissal follows the recent firing of defensive coordinator John Butler earlier this week. Phil Snow, the associate head coach for the Huskers, is set to fill in as interim defensive coordinator for the Las Vegas Bowl, where Nebraska is expected to face Utah on December 31. Rhule has indicated that a new defensive coordinator will be named for the 2026 season in the near future.
The Huskers closed the 2025 season with a 7-5 record, concluding with consecutive heavy defeats to Penn State and Iowa. Official bowl invitations are to be extended on Sunday, confirming Nebraska’s participation in the Las Vegas Bowl.
