The season is barely underway, but panic has already taken hold in Lincoln. What was supposed to be a year of consolidation for the Cornhuskers is turning into a saga of uncertainty—and the latest chapter stars none other than head coach Matt Rhule.
In a press conference that raised more questions than answers, Rhule was asked who backs up Emmett Johnson at running back. His response was as baffling as it was revealing: “That’s literally the question I asked the staff this morning.”
Excuse me? Four weeks into the season and there’s still no clarity on the running back depth chart? For many fans, this isn’t just concerning—it’s a sign of tactical negligence.
The RB Room Crisis From fall camp, it was clear there wasn’t much depth behind Johnson. Kwinten Ives and Isaiah Mozee have shown flashes, but no consistency. And when Nebraska faced real competition—Michigan and Cincinnati—the lack of production was glaring. Johnson managed just 65 yards on 19 carries against the Wolverines, while Ives didn’t touch the ball. Mozee, meanwhile, has -1 yard on the season.
Fan Outrage on Social Media The reaction on X (formerly Twitter) was swift and brutal: “This should be considered malpractice.” “Boggles my mind we didn’t get a guy out of the portal.” “How about asking the RB coach why he keeps missing in recruiting?”
Who’s Accountable for This Mess? Rhule says he’s challenged his assistants to establish a clear pecking order. But the fact that this challenge is happening in Week 4—and not before the season opener—is a red flag. Is this poor planning? Internal disconnect? Or simply an admission that the talent isn’t there?