In one of the most unexpected off-field stories of the college football offseason, a report surfaced claiming that Apple CEO and well-known LGBTQ+ advocate Tim Cook offered a $100 million sponsorship deal to the Nebraska Cornhuskers football program, contingent on the team publicly endorsing a permanent pro-LGBTQ+ campaign.
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While details surrounding the proposal remain unconfirmed by official university channels, the rumor picked up steam across social media, generating widespread conversation. At the center of it all: Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule, whose alleged one-sentence response to the offer has gone viral:
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> โWe build men, not marketing campaigns.โ
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Though brief, Rhuleโs statementโif accurateโhas ignited both praise and criticism across the college football landscape. Supporters see it as a coach keeping his focus on football and player development, while critics argue it dismisses an opportunity for social progress and visibility.
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Regardless of where fans fall on the issue, the story has taken on a life of its own and adds yet another layer to Nebraskaโs high-profile 2025 season, which already has major expectations under Rhule’s leadership.
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๐ What are your thoughts on this story?
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Should college football programs take stands on major social issues when offered sponsorships?
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Was Rhuleโs response powerful or problematic?
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