Rhule cites turnover margin in Nebraska loss to Washington

Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule attributed the Huskers' narrow loss to Washington primarily to a turnover margin of minus three. Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Rhule stated that the team reviewed the entire game on Sunday night and identified specific errors that cost them the result. He described the outcome as a missed opportunity, emphasizing that the defense performed well for most of the contest.

The Huskers have faced a series of close defeats recently. Rhule noted that Big Ten games often go down to the wire, but he pointed to the fourth quarter performance against Washington as the deciding factor. The defense was required to account for Washington quarterback Demond Williams, who entered the game in relief. Rhule characterized Williams as an All-American athlete with the ability to run, forcing the defense to deploy a spy.

Rhule praised individual player contributions, specifically naming Anthony Colandrea, Daniel Kaelin, Mason Goldman, and Jacory Barney Jr. He highlighted Barney's resilience, noting that the player broke a rib against Oregon but continued to play. Rhule argued that when players fail to make plays, it reflects an institutional issue rather than an individual failing. He told the media that if fans believe they helped the team win, they must also accept that they helped the team lose.

The coach addressed the absence of quarterback Anthony Colandrea from the post-game media scrum. Rhule said he learned of the absence on Sunday night and suggested Colandrea may have been undergoing medical checks. He explained that he was distracted by an incident involving a fan and his 13-year-old daughter, which prevented him from tracking the schedule closely. Rhule stated that he always encourages quarterbacks to speak to the media, but he prioritized his family's well-being during the immediate aftermath of the game.

With a short week ahead, the team conducted its first practice of the week on Sunday. The Huskers travel to Illinois on Friday. Rhule confirmed that Offensive Coordinator Dana Holgorsen, Offensive Line Coach Geep Wade, and Safeties Coach Tyler Yelk will be in the press box for that game. He said no other coaching changes are planned for the upcoming match.

Rhule also announced that John Hohl will handle field goals and extra points against Illinois. The coaching staff plans to prepare for the tempo of the Illinois offense and the physicality of their defense. The team will focus on sound tackling and managing the pace of the game as they head to Champaign.