With PSU parting ways with James Franklin after a brutal 0-3 conference start, Matt Rhule’s name shot up as a potential candidate. For now, Terry Smith is the team’s interim coach in Happy Valley. However, the search for a long-term leader remains a top priority. If PSU comes calling for Rhule, and he decides to pack his bag, then one of Nebraska’s own alums could be next in line. A critical question needs an answer: Should Rhule leave the Cornhuskers for PSU?

Nebraska alum Will Compton declared his interest in the Nebraska head coaching job during his October 6 Bussin’ With The Boys appearance. When inquired about accepting the Nebraska job, he claimed, “Let’s just say hypothetically I know everything there is to know about being a head coach. Absolutely. I’d be trading in a microphone for a whistle, and then I’ll carry on the legacy… This would be destiny.” He also assured that Rhule isn’t leaving, at least for now. But a week later, on October 13, he followed it up with a bold message.

According to Will Compton, there’s a real possibility PSU could tempt Matt Rhule. Because there’s some serious heat. “I think the rumors are very real,” stated Compton. “The pressure will be at an all-time high, and I think it just comes down to what’s in Coach Rhule’s brain and heart.”

Then he made it clear he’s not dismissing the buzz. “I’m not saying he’s not leaving or that these rumors aren’t true. I think all of that is very real,” added Compton. “He was a walk-on there. He’s an East Coast guy. I know, he’s got family ties, friends, everything connects back to Penn State.” Compton’s words make total sense to some.

Rhule’s roots run deep at PSU. He was a walk-on LB under Joe Paterno, and more importantly, met his wife there. Moreover, he remains close with AD Pat Kraft, who hired him at Temple in 2012. Now while his PSU ties are strong, there’s more to the story. Here, Compton also highlighted Rhule’s Nebraska connection. “I don’t know what’s going on in his brain,” remarked Compton. “But I do know that, in my opinion, he’s grown. He’s on his third year now, and he absolutely loves Nebraska.” Then Compton pointed to the family factor, which becomes a deal breaker for most coaches.

“His wife, his family loves Nebraska. He moved his family, even some extended family, to Lincoln. His wife has a business here, and his son is a sophomore at UNL. You get everything you want at Nebraska: money, resources, facilities, recruiting classes. It’s set up so you can not only finish your work but be a legacy guy at the University of Nebraska,” said Compton. Under Matt Rhule’s leadership, the Huskers entered the AP poll this week at No. 25. In his 3 seasons with the program, he has a 17-14 record. So while the growth is clearly visible, there are other factors as well.

The Nebraska alum emphasized the deep connection Rhule possesses with the Huskers. “He’s got emotional ties here, and this is a program that he legitimately wants to build and win championships with,” said Compton. But beyond the wins and losses, Rhule’s relationship with the AD Troy Dannen makes Nebraska more than just a job. Now, while Compton put Rhule at a crossroads, the Cornhuskers’ HC made his stance clear.

Nebraska HC’s intriguing take on PSU job

Matt Rhule addressed swirling PSU rumors on Monday. He made it clear that his heart is in Lincoln. Basically, Rhule emphasized his love for the Huskers and the community. “Troy [Dannen] and I are in an unbelievable relationship, and we’re in constant communication about this program and where we are heading,” he said. “I came here for two reasons. I love the community, and I wanted to rebuild Nebraska football.” Then he refused to engage in speculation.

“This place is elite. I want to be a great father, and I want to be a great college football coach. And I’m not going to talk about job openings or my contract. I’m going to talk about the team,” stated Rhule.

He is set to make $7.5 million this season under a contract that extends through 2030. This amount jumps to $8.5 million and $10 million in 2027, automatically making his contract termination expensive. But Rhule remains focused on building a winning program. He wants to win, and nothing else matters.

“I absolutely love it here, and I just want us to continue to take the steps needed to turn this thing into a beast,” he said. Although he admires PSU and wishes for former coach James Franklin. But Nebraska is home for now. Yet, you never know what transpires in the college football world.