Everyone’s Saying the Same Thing About Matt Rhule After Illinois-Nebraska BY SHANE SHOEMAKER ATHLON SPORTS UPDATED SEPTEMBER 21, 2024 1:29 AM After the Nebraska Cornhuskers handled their rival Colorado Buffaloes a couple of weeks ago, the hype around Matt Rhule’s team began building. Nebraska (3-1) came into Friday night’s game against the No. 24 Illinois Fighting Illini (4-0) with their first AP Top 25 ranking since 2019, sitting at No. 22. However, after a 31-24 loss in overtime, the Cornhuskers may find themselves unranked yet again. Nebraska took a 17-10 lead into halftime, but Illinois outscored them 21-7 in the second half and overtime. The Cornhuskers had a chance to take control late in the fourth quarter, but quarterback Dylan Raiola missed a critical throw, which led to John Hohl’s missed 39-yard field goal, leaving the game tied. With the ball first in overtime, Illinois needed just two plays for quarterback Luke Altmyer to connect with Pat Bryant on a four-yard touchdown. Nebraska’s overtime possession ended poorly, as Raiola was sacked three times, including on fourth down, to seal the loss. While the game didn’t end well for Nebraska, the criticism on social media directed at Rhule has been harsh. Many fans are questioning his ability to succeed now back with a Power 4 program like Nebraska.
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