Riley Van Poppel and the Nebraska football team are turning the page after a challenging 2025 season. Despite making it to two straight bowl games, the journey wasn’t as enjoyable as it could have been for the Cornhuskers or their fans.
Van Poppel, a key figure on the defensive line, felt the weight of those struggles. But with a new coaching staff in place, there's a fresh sense of optimism in the air.
In a conversation following Nebraska's spring game, Van Poppel shared insights into the transformation. The new defensive brain trust, led by Rob Aurich, Corey Brown, and Roy Manning, has brought a revitalized approach and alignment to the team.
Reflecting on his growth, Van Poppel admitted, “Looking back at last year, I wasn’t happy with my performance. Coming into this year, I knew I needed to work on a lot.” This candid self-assessment has set the stage for a promising season.
Van Poppel’s enthusiasm was palpable as he described how the new staff has reignited his love for the game. “They've put fun back in football for me,” he said, emphasizing how this renewed joy and confidence are helping him hone crucial skills like hand technique, footwork, and pad level.
Corey Brown, Van Poppel’s position coach, received special praise. Known for his intensity and ability to balance fun with focus, Brown has been instrumental in Van Poppel’s development. “He knows when it’s time to go and when it’s time to have fun,” Van Poppel noted, highlighting Brown’s unique ability to relate to players, drawing from his own Big Ten experience at Iowa.
With this new coaching dynamic, Van Poppel and the Nebraska defense are gearing up for a season that promises to bring both improvement and enjoyment back to the field.