Matt Rhule may hire Chip Kelly to run Nebraska offense
The former Oregon and Ohio State coach is listed as a top target after Matt Rhule dismissed Dana Holgorsen, though his current role at Northwestern presents hiring hurdles.
By David Marshall ·
Chip Kelly is positioned as the primary candidate to fill the offensive coordinator vacancy at the University of Nebraska, according to an analysis by columnist Jeremy Pernell. The search follows head coach Matt Rhule's recent decision to fire Dana Holgorsen. Pernell argues that Kelly's proven ability to adapt his offensive schemes makes him a strong fit for the Cornhuskers' current needs.
Kelly currently serves as the offensive coordinator at Northwestern, a position he assumed in December after being dismissed by the Las Vegas Raiders. Under his leadership, the Wildcats have transformed their attack into one of the more creative units in the Big Ten. The team now averages 31 points per game and 421.2 total yards per contest. These figures represent a sharp increase from the previous season, when Northwestern averaged 23.4 points and 346.1 yards.
The offensive improvement has been driven by a shift in schematic philosophy. While Kelly is historically associated with up-tempo spread offenses from his time at Oregon, he has integrated elements of traditional Wing-T and wishbone systems at Northwestern. This approach utilizes motion, misdirection, and option concepts to confuse defensive alignments. The strategy aims to create ambiguity regarding the ball carrier and exploit defensive vulnerabilities through varied personnel groupings.
Kelly's recent success includes a 413-yard rushing performance against Penn State on October 2. This marked the Wildcats' highest single-game rushing total since 2003. The team has also surpassed 500 total yards against multiple Big Ten opponents for the first time since 2007. Pernell notes that this blend of old-school structure and modern principles aligns well with Rhule's emphasis on controlling the line of scrimmage and generating explosive plays.
Kelly's resume includes extensive experience developing high-level offenses. As the head coach at Oregon, he led the team to a national championship appearance after the 2010 season. That offense led the nation in scoring with 47 points per game. He later served as the offensive coordinator for Ohio State's 2024 national championship team, where the unit averaged 35.7 points per game. Quarterback Will Howard threw for 4,010 yards and 35 touchdowns during that campaign.
Hiring Kelly would present specific financial and logistical challenges. He was previously earning $6 million annually with the Raiders, a salary that reportedly includes provisions through 2027. His current compensation at Northwestern has not been publicly disclosed. Pernell suggests that financial incentives alone are unlikely to entice Kelly away from a program where he has just begun his tenure. Head coach David Braun at Northwestern recently secured a contract extension through 2031.
The candidate's familiarity with Big Ten competition is a key factor in his appeal. He has called plays against the conference's defenses during his recent seasons at Ohio State and Northwestern. This experience reduces the uncertainty often associated with hiring coordinators from different conferences. Pernell concludes that while obstacles exist, Kelly's track record and current performance make him a priority target for the Cornhusker staff.
