‘We can be feared again’: Matt Rhule makes debut at Big Ten Media Days

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Fueled by an afternoon cup of joe, Matt Rhule spoke for 45 minutes Thursday at a Big Ten Media Days press conference.

Rhule, who was hired to lead Nebraska after a tumultuous 2022 season, talked about a multitude of topics during his appearance at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.

Right out of the gate, Rhule seemingly confirmed that Georgia Tech transfer Jeff Sims will be the starting quarterback this season.

“I want him to lead in a way that he feels comfortable with, and I see him exerting his presence and, you know, more and more often,” he said.

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Rhule said Sims is a “triple threat,” but he hasn’t received national recognition for his skill set.

“He can run it, he can throw it and he can beat you with his brain,” Rhule said.

Matt Rhule on what success looks like in his first season.

“Taking back respect and earning respect for Nebraska football.” pic.twitter.com/AyQpKBCFKZ

— Channel 8 KLKN-TV (@Channel8ABC) July 27, 2023

Sims and company will be leading the Huskers in a new era, in which Rhule hopes to restore Nebraska’s former glory.

“We all just want to do everything better than everyone else,” he said.

Rhule said that opponents are aware of the last 30 years of Husker football, which included several highs (three national championships) and several lows.

But all of that doesn’t matter.  Rhule said the Huskers need to focus on “right now” rather than the past.

“If we focus on right now, and we’re patient with it, hopefully, we can be feared again someday,” he said.

Before Rhule took the stage, Sims, offensive lineman Ethan Piper and linebacker Luke Reimer spoke to the media.

Ethan Piper is entering his 5th season with the Huskers. He wants to win, says just cause there’s a new staff doesn’t mean it won’t happen year one under Rhule.

“[New staff] is not an excuse for us to not win games.” pic.twitter.com/qklvGPPxkc

— Channel 8 KLKN-TV (@Channel8ABC) July 27, 2023