Nebraska Dismisses Defensive Coordinator Butler Before Bowl Game
Nebraska has dismissed its first-year defensive coordinator, John Butler, as the season winds down. This decision comes after the Cornhuskers experienced a decline, losing three out of their last four games and finishing with a record of 7-5.
Nebraska Dismisses Defensive Coordinator Butler
Butler’s tenure was marked by a hopeful start, as the team began the season with a 6-2 record. However, the lack of consistent performance in the latter half of the season led to his departure. In a statement, Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule expressed gratitude for Butler’s contributions over the past two years, wishing him success in future endeavors.
Upcoming Changes
Phil Snow, currently the associate head coach, has been appointed as the interim defensive coordinator for the upcoming bowl game. Snow is familiar with Nebraska’s program, having previously worked with Rhule at Temple, Baylor, and the Carolina Panthers.
Butler’s Coaching Background
- John Butler joined Nebraska in 2024 as the secondary coach and pass game coordinator.
- He spent six seasons with the Buffalo Bills before transitioning to the Cornhuskers.
- Butler was promoted to defensive coordinator after Tony White accepted a position at Florida State.
Defensive Performance
Despite some early-season success, Nebraska’s defense struggled with consistency. The team ended the regular season with one of the top pass defenses in the FBS, allowing only 112.1 passing yards per game. However, they ranked 12th in scoring defense within the Big Ten, further emphasizing the struggles faced in conference games.
As the program looks to the future, Nebraska aims to appoint a new defensive coordinator for the 2026 season in the coming weeks. The focus will be on rebuilding and enhancing the Cornhuskers’ defensive capabilities.
