University of Nebraska-Lincoln Chancellor Ronnie Green addressed the current climate at UNL today in his "State of the University" speech — though not specifically the state of Husker football.
Still, he did answer some reporters' questions on the topic following his speech.
“Frustrated at the current time,” said Green when asked his response to where the Husker football program stands now.
Green said he’s heard from multiple fans and boosters about where they would like to see the Nebraska football program. “They care deeply about this program — we all do, I care deeply about it,” Green said.
Green wouldn't say what the future of Nebraska Head Coach Mike Riley or Athletic Director Shawn Eichhorst was, but stressed he wanted a different outcome on Saturday.
“We are certainly frustrated at the moment at their level of performance on the field and are hoping that pulling for our team over the next several weeks,” he said.
In a rare move, Eichorst addressed a group of sports reporters after the stunning loss. While Green said he didn't suggest the impromptu press conference, he thought it was a good idea.
"Shawn is his own leader, and he’s a very effective leader, so that was his choice — I think a wise choice on his part, and I was glad he did after the game," Green said.
Life-long Husker fans like Grandon Pickering are still reeling from a miserable performance on Saturday: “Disappointment. We could have done a little bit better I feel like offensive wise,” he said.
On whether Riley should stay or go, Pickering would like to see how the team performs during the entire schedule.
“Let him do his thing for his duration, now, in his contract," he said. "So let it play out, and if it's not doing well by that year or the year before, kick him out I guess.”
Others on campus give Riley the benefit of the doubt.
“I don't think that there really needs to be a change in the coaching leadership,” UNL student Raelynn Burkinshaw said. "I think there's only so much you can do with the players you have right now."
Green said he hopes these fans — win or lose — still support the Big Red and UNL student football players as they take on Rutgers this coming Saturday.
“We also have student athletes who represent us and who wear the ‘N’ and who represent Husker Nation," he said. "And I hope that our public will be there supporting them on Saturday and cheering them on and supporting them and representing us moving forward."
3 News Now did ask Chancellor Green whether he's had discussions with NU President Hank Bounds on the future of the athletic program. He said, "No."
