Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule has never been shy about sharing his opinions, and during an appearance on ESPN’s Pat McAfee Show, he revealed a few opponents he wants nothing to do with. When asked about future scheduling, Rhule admitted that he has “a couple rules” when it comes to nonconference games.
“When I get a new AD, I’m like just please never mention the word ‘Dakota’ to me and we have Ohio U next year,” Rhule said. “I’m watching them almost beat Rutgers. I watched them last week, then my AD Troy Dannen says ‘You do know we have them next year?’ I about fell out of my chair. It was scheduled before I got here. Who schedules Ohio? Frank Solich. I mean, those teams know how to win.”
You don't wanna play the Ohio Bobcats
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) September 11, 2025
DO NOT SCHEDULE THEM
"We're playing them next year and they know how to win" ~ @CoachMattRhule #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/7xHjkCzh0b
Rhule’s frustration is understandable. The Bobcats have built a reputation in the MAC as a tough, disciplined program. As for the Dakota schools, they've long been known as giant-killers in the FCS ranks. Nebraska has North Dakota slated in the near future, along with dates against South Dakota State in both 2028 and 2030. Three matchups that could cause headaches for the Huskers
The irony is that Ohio would still be a tougher challenge than Nebraska’s upcoming non-conference opponent, Houston Christian. The Huskers host the Huskies this weekend in what looks like a $500k tune-up before Big Ten play.
After HCU, Nebraska’s league slate ramps up quickly with Michigan and Michigan State visiting Lincoln in consecutive weeks. The biggest hurdle will come on November 22, when the Huskers travel to Happy Valley to face No. 2 Penn State.
Rhule’s team has gotten off to a hot start, rolling past Cincinnati at Arrowhead Stadium and dismantling Akron 68-0 last Saturday. But it's clear he prefers avoiding dangerous mid-majors and FCS powers that could derail momentum in a hurry.
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