John Butler out as Nebraska football’s defensive coordinator, Matt Rhule says

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Nebraska Football Head Coach Matt Rhule announced the firing of defensive coordinator John Butler.

Rhule released a statement about the firing on Monday:

“I informed John Butler earlier today that he will not be retained as defensive coordinator effective immediately. We thank John for his contributions to our football program over the past two seasons and wish him the best moving forward in his coaching career. Phil Snow will serve as the interim defensive coordinator for our upcoming bowl game. We will work toward naming a new defensive coordinator for the 2026 season in the coming weeks.”

The firing comes following Nebraska’s 40-16 loss to Iowa on Black Friday.

SEE ALSO: Nebraska football routed by Iowa in Heroes Trophy game

During the 2025 season, the Blackshirts allowed 23 points per game.

Nebraska had one of the top pass defenses in the country, allowing only 141 yards per game through the air, ranking second behind Ohio State.

But the trenches were a different story, as the Huskers allowed 171.2 yards per game on the ground, ranking 95th in the country.

As a whole, Nebraska ranked 23rd in the country in terms of total yards allowed.

According to Rhule, Snow will take over as the interim defensive coordinator for the bowl game.

Snow is in his first season as Nebraska’s associate head coach. He has experience as the defensive playcaller at eight schools, including three years with the Carolina Panthers.

The Huskers will find out their bowl destination on Sunday.