Social media reacts to the firing of defensive coordinator John Butler

Nebraska parted ways with defensive coordinator John Butler on Monday afternoon. Butler was serving his first season in the role following the departure of Tony White. His unit performed well at times, but the run defense was a problem all season.

Butler joined the Cornhuskers in the summer of 2024 as a secondary coach after holding the same position with the Buffalo Bills. He stepped down from his post with the Bills in February 2024, citing a desire to become a defensive coordinator.

The defense ranked 23rd in the nation in total defense, surrendering 312.3 yards per game, and 53rd in scoring defense, allowing 22.92 points per game. The run defense ranked 95th, allowing 171 yards per game.

Associate head coach Phil Snow will serve as the team's interim defensive coordinator for its upcoming bowl game. Matt Rhule issued a statement on Monday announcing the immediate departure of Butler.

"We thank John for his contributions to our football program over the past two seasons and wish him the best moving forward in his coaching career. Phil Snow will serve as the interim defensive coordinator for our upcoming bowl game. We will work toward naming a new defensive coordinator for the 2026 season in the coming weeks."

Matt Rhule has only run the 3-3-5 defense since arriving in Lincoln. You have to wonder if that could change, given the team's struggles against the run this season. Find social media reactions to the news of John Butler's departure below.

Official statement

One season

Candidates

No. 95 rush defense

Allowed 27.3 points per game

Gut reaction

Time to dump the 3-3-5

Phenomenal secondary coach

It happened

Yikes

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This article originally appeared on Cornhuskers Wire: Social media reacts to the firing of defensive coordinator John Butler