Dana Holgorsen Finds a Comfort Zone at Nebraska: ‘I’m Back Doing What I Love’
After more than a decade navigating the grind of head coaching, Dana Holgorsen has found something rare in college football—peace. The former West Virginia and Houston head coach is settling into his new role as an analyst on Matt Rhule’s staff at Nebraska, and by all accounts, he’s thriving. Stripped of the pressures that come with being the face of a program, Holgorsen says he’s “back doing what I love”—and that love, he explains, is simply football.
Holgorsen, who spent 12 seasons as a head coach and built a reputation for high-octane offenses and candid soundbites, joined the Nebraska staff in an off-field advisory role earlier this year. While the title may be modest, the presence is not. His football IQ and experience have quickly made him a valuable voice behind the scenes in Lincoln.
“I’m not chasing the spotlight anymore,” Holgorsen said during a recent media availability. “I’m watching film, talking ball, helping young coaches, and I get to go home at night without thinking about 300 different things. That’s a win.”
A Quiet Comeback in a Loud Environment
Nebraska’s football program under Matt Rhule has been defined by hard work, transparency, and a commitment to culture. Holgorsen’s arrival initially raised some eyebrows—he’s a personality, and one known for his laid-back demeanor and sometimes brash approach. But inside the walls of Memorial Stadium, he’s fit in seamlessly. Rhule, known for surrounding himself with strong football minds, has tapped into Holgorsen’s experience while allowing him to operate free of ego.
“I told Dana from the start—just be you,” Rhule said. “We’ve got a lot of young coaches on staff, and having someone who’s seen it all at this level is invaluable.”
Mentoring the Next Generation
Holgorsen’s role allows him to do what he always loved about coaching but had less time for as a head coach: teach. Whether it’s helping break down opponents’ tendencies or offering insights during staff meetings, he’s become a resource for everyone from graduate assistants to Rhule himself. He’s particularly engaged with the offensive side of the ball, where his Air Raid roots are helping blend with Nebraska’s evolving scheme.
Quarterbacks coach Glenn Thomas, who previously worked with Holgorsen at Houston, says his impact is already noticeable. “He has this way of simplifying things. He doesn’t talk just to impress you—he talks to make you better. That’s huge for our room.”
A Career, Reimagined
At 52, Holgorsen isn’t necessarily plotting a return to head coaching. For now, he says, he’s more interested in soaking up the game he fell in love with as a young assistant under Mike Leach.
“People ask me if I miss it,” Holgorsen said. “Sure, sometimes. But I missed this—being around guys who just want to get better every day. This is the best I’ve felt in years.”
Conclusion
Dana Holgorsen may no longer be pacing the sidelines with a headset and all the pressure that comes with it, but he’s found something more lasting at Nebraska—a renewed passion, a respected role, and a sense of belonging. For a coach who’s seen just about everything, that may be the biggest win of all.
