Nebraska's coaching staff is about to feel a significant void as special teams coordinator Mike Ekeler is departing for USC, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in just one season. This move comes as a blow to the Huskers, who saw Ekeler transform their special teams from a glaring weakness to a formidable strength. But here's where it gets interesting: Ekeler's departure raises questions about the future of Nebraska's special teams and whether they can maintain the momentum he built.
Hired from Tennessee in February 2025, Ekeler earned $625,000 during his brief but impactful tenure in Lincoln. His work didn't go unnoticed, as he was nominated for the prestigious 2025 Broyles Award, recognizing the nation's top assistant coach. Ekeler's versatility was on full display when he stepped in to coach Nebraska's edge position during the Las Vegas Bowl, amid a defensive staff overhaul. However, head coach Matt Rhule remained tight-lipped about any long-term defensive role for Ekeler, leaving fans and analysts speculating.
Ekeler's coaching journey is a testament to his adaptability. He previously served as Nebraska's outside linebackers coach from 2008 to 2010 and most recently held the dual role of special teams coordinator and outside linebackers coach at Tennessee from 2021 to 2024. Notably, he's no stranger to USC, having coached linebackers for the Trojans in 2013. But is USC the right move for Ekeler, or is Nebraska losing more than just a coach?
The transformation Ekeler brought to Nebraska's special teams is nothing short of remarkable. Before his arrival, the unit struggled under Ed Foley, ranking near the bottom of college football. In just one season, Ekeler's high-energy approach turned things around dramatically. For instance, the Huskers went from allowing seven blocked kicks in 2024 to none in 2025, while blocking three kicks themselves—a feat tied for ninth-best nationally. And this is the part most people miss: Ekeler's attacking philosophy didn't just prevent mistakes; it created opportunities.
Under Ekeler's guidance, return specialist Kenneth Williams blossomed into one of the nation's top kick returners, leading the Big Ten with 32.9 yards per return and earning second-team All-Big Ten honors. Punt returns saw an equally impressive surge, jumping from 4.9 yards per return in 2024 to 13.6 in 2025, thanks in part to Jacory Barney Jr.'s stellar performance. Barney's 270 punt return yards were the most for Nebraska since De’Mornay Pierson-El's record-breaking 2014 season.
Ekeler's impact extended beyond the field, as he reshaped Nebraska's specialist room with strategic additions. Cal transfer kicker Kyle Cunanan proved to be a reliable asset, making 16 of 19 field goals, including a career-long 52-yarder. Ekeler also introduced rugby-style punting with Archie Wilson, who pinned 12 punts inside the 20-yard line. Additionally, he addressed long snapping issues by bringing in New Hampshire transfer Kevin Gallic, whose seamless performance went unnoticed—a testament to his effectiveness.
Looking ahead, Nebraska has already taken steps to fill the void, adding Michigan State long snapper Jack Wills and Australian kicker Michael Sarikizis to their roster. But the question remains: Can the Huskers sustain the special teams excellence Ekeler established, or will his departure mark a return to past struggles?
As Ekeler heads to USC, Nebraska fans are left to ponder the future. Will the Huskers find a worthy successor, or will Ekeler's absence be felt for seasons to come? And for USC, is this hire a game-changer, or just another piece in the coaching carousel? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—is Nebraska losing more than just a coach, or is this a natural progression in the world of college football?
