Nebraska’s Defensive Braintrust for the Las Vegas Bowl: Phil Snow Assembles a Veteran Crew
LAS VEGAS - When Matt Rhule tapped longtime confidant Phil Snow to lead Nebraska’s defense for the Las Vegas Bowl, Snow didn’t just show up with a whistle - he brought a plan. And that plan started with assembling a trusted group of coaches to help guide the Huskers through bowl prep and beyond.
Snow, a veteran defensive mind with decades of experience, wasted no time putting together a staff that blends familiarity, experience, and a deep understanding of his system. Among those joining him in Las Vegas: former NFL defensive assistant Mike Siravo, ex-Temple and Baylor staffer Brandon Cooper, and former college coach Gerald Chatman. Each has ties to Snow and Rhule from previous coaching stops, and all bring a level of continuity that’s rare in a one-off bowl assignment.
Siravo’s inclusion is particularly notable. He's worked alongside Rhule and Snow for years, including key roles at Temple, Baylor, and with the Carolina Panthers. His presence in Las Vegas could signal more than just a short-term reunion - there’s buzz that he could be a part of Nebraska’s future plans on defense.
Cooper and Chatman, both respected in their own right, round out a group that’s less about temporary fixes and more about setting a tone. Even if this is a one-game collaboration, it’s clear Snow and Rhule are treating the Las Vegas Bowl as more than just a postseason exhibition. This is a proving ground - not just for players, but for coaches too.
Snow made it clear that he’s not easing into this role. “This isn’t just about showing up and calling plays,” he said. “We’re here to get these guys ready to play fast, physical football - the way Nebraska should play.”
That mindset has already started to show on the practice field. According to players and staffers, the energy at bowl practices has been high, and the message from the defensive staff has been consistent: fundamentals, physicality, and communication.
This isn’t Snow’s first rodeo. He’s coached in big-time college programs and in the NFL, and he’s built his reputation on disciplined, aggressive defenses that make life miserable for opposing quarterbacks. With a full staff of familiar faces around him, he’s able to install concepts quickly and get buy-in from players who know what’s expected.
Rhule’s decision to bring in Snow - even if only for the bowl - says a lot about where Nebraska is headed. It’s a nod to the foundation he’s trying to build: one rooted in relationships, trust, and a shared football philosophy. And while nothing’s official beyond the bowl game, there’s a sense that this might be more than just a one-time reunion.
Snow himself didn’t shy away from the idea of staying on in some capacity. “We’ll see what happens,” he said.
“Right now, I’m focused on the bowl game. But I love working with Matt, and I love coaching defense.”
Whether or not Snow sticks around in Lincoln after the final whistle in Las Vegas, his presence has already made an impact. Nebraska’s defensive players are getting a crash course in a pro-style system from a coach who’s seen it all - and they’re responding.
For Rhule, this is exactly the kind of environment he wants to cultivate: competitive, focused, and filled with coaches who speak the same football language. The Las Vegas Bowl might just be the start of something bigger.