Big Ten coach fires offensive coordinator: ‘I am angry'

SportsFILE - Houston head coach Dana Holgorsen watches from the sideline during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Central Florida, Nov. 25, 2023, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack, File)APNebraska’s Matt Rhule fired offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen on Saturday, a day after the Cornhuskers suffered their fourth straight defeat after a loss to Illinois.“Like so many of you, I am angry, I am disappointed and I am frustrated with our results this season. As the head coach, I am ultimately responsible for every aspect of our program—including wins and losses—and it is my responsibility to make changes when they are warranted,” Rhule’s statement to The Athletic read.“While there are many areas that need improvement, our offensive plan and execution is simply not working. Earlier today, I relieved offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen of his duties. As I have recently shared, Dana has a fantastic offensive mind, he is a strong leader, and he has done great work here at Nebraska. But simply, we need a change.” Rhule announced that co-offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Glenn Thomas will take over play-calling duties.“I will continue to evaluate our program through the season and certainly at its conclusion and make additional changes where I believe they will help us win,“ his statement continued.“The Nebraska fan base has high expectations and I embrace them, and I also know of their passionate support of the young men in our program. I hope they will continue to be there for our players with very important games still ahead. Our entire program is determined to finish this season strong.”The Huskers got off to a 5-0 start this season for the first time since 2016, then suffered three straight heartbreaking losses by a total of 13 points. They led each of those games in the fourth quarter, irritating their rabid fanbase.Holgorsen had been with Nebraska since 2024.Mark Heim is a senior writer who provides sports, news and trending content. He co-hosts a daily sports radio show on WNSP-FM 105.5 in Mobile. Heim has been recognized with awards for his writing, headlines and...