Temple University Athletics
Photo by: Mitchell Leff
Matt Rhule Named Head Football Coach at Temple University
12.17.12 | Football
PHOTO GALLERY | VIDEO
PHILADELPHIA, Pa. – Matt Rhule [pronounced rule], who has 15 seasons of coaching experience on the collegiate and professional levels, has been named Temple University's 26th head football coach. He most recently served as the assistant offensive line coach with the New York Giants.
The State College, Pa., native, a former player at Penn State, has 14 years of collegiate coaching experience, including six seasons at Temple, and six bowl games-- two with the Owls-- on his resume.
“We had a diverse and talented pool of candidates and an overwhelming amount of interest in the Temple football head coaching position, but one person distinguished himself from the rest – Matt Rhule,” said Temple University Director of Athletics Bill Bradshaw. “Matt is the perfect person to take the Temple football program to the next level. He is an outstanding recruiter and in his six years at Temple was responsible for bringing many of the players that helped the program win its first bowl in 32 years. He is one of the top young minds in the profession, and has a total understanding of the game. And clearly he is someone who loves Temple, and is already ingrained into the Temple community.”
“It is with tremendous pride and anticipation for the future that my family and I are coming home to Temple University. I am honored and thankful that Bill Bradshaw along with Presidents Englert and Theobald have entrusted me with the privilege to serve Temple as its head football coach, and I am impressed with their vision for the future,” said Rhule. “I had the privilege of spending six wonderful seasons at Temple University in a myriad of roles. and it was during that time that I realized Temple was home. I am very proud of everything that we accomplished culminating in our third straight bowl eligible season and New Mexico Bowl victory. When the opportunity came to return and serve the Temple student-athletes and the greater University community as a whole; I knew it was right. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity and look forward to continuing the program's upward momentum as a member of the BIG EAST Conference.”
Rhule, 37, joined the Giants last spring. He worked closely with Pat Flaherty, who has been the offensive line coach since 2004.
During his previous tenure at Temple, Rhule's role changed several times. Last spring, he was promoted to co-offensive coordinator after serving as the assistant offensive coordinator and tight ends coach as well as the recruiting coordinator under Steve Addazio in 2011. Temple's 2012 recruiting class was ranked No. 1 in the Mid-American Conference and helped lay the foundation for the program's transition to the BIG EAST Conference.
Under Al Golden, Rhule was promoted to offensive coordinator in the spring of 2008. He also coached the TU quarterbacks. He coached the defensive line in 2006 and served as the quarterbacks coach and recruiting coordinator during the 2006 and 2007 seasons. For three consecutive years, Temple's recruiting class was ranked No. 1 in the MAC [2006, 2007, 2008].
In 2011, the Owls went 9-4 and played in the fourth bowl game in school history, the Gildan New Mexico Bowl, where they crushed Wyoming, 37-15 – Temple's first postseason victory since the 1979 Garden State Bowl. Rhule mentored two-time first-team All-MAC selection TE Evan Rodriguez. For the second time in Rhule's tenure, the Owls set the Temple single-season rushing yardage record and rushing touchdowns records behind the explosive efforts of All-MAC junior running backs Bernard Pierce and Matt Brown.
In 2010, Rhule guided the offense to the largest margin of victory in a MAC game. Helping the team to an 8-4 regular-season record, the Owls recorded back-to-back winning seasons for the first time since 1978-79, including their first win over a BCS team. The Owls recorded the largest margin of victory (42 points) in a MAC game against Buffalo. A school record six offensive players earned All-MAC honors, including repeat first-team honorees OL Colin Madison, OL Darius Morris, and RB Bernard Pierce as well as first-time honoree TE Evan Rodriguez.
In 2009, Rhule's offense helped TU win a single-season record nine consecutive games en route to a 9-4 overall record and first-place tie in the MAC East. Under Rhule's guidance, the Owls set the Temple single-season rushing yardage record. A school record five offensive players were named All-MAC, including three on the first team. All-American Bernard Pierce rushed his way into the Temple record book, re-writing all records for a rookie en route to 2009 MAC Freshman of the Year honors.
In 2008, Rhule took the reins as offensive coordinator, helping the Owls to their most wins in nearly two decades. The Owls out-scored their opponents for the season for the first time since 1990. Rhule coached All-MAC honorees C Alex Derenthal and school record holder WR Bruce Francis, while QB Adam DiMichele set the school record for passing touchdowns with six in the 55-52 win over Eastern Michigan. WR Bruce Francis set the school records for career receiving TDs (23) and consecutive games with a reception (38).
Rhule arrived in Owl Country after spending four seasons as an assistant coach at Western Carolina, including three as assistant head coach.
From 2002 to 2005, Rhule was an assistant at Western Carolina under head coach Kent Briggs, serving as assistant head coach during his last three seasons. In 2005, he was offensive line coach and run game coordinator after directing the linebackers his first three years. Rhule was special teams coordinator during his tenure in Cullowhee (N.C.). In 2005, the Catamounts led Division I-AA in kickoff returns, averaging 27.44 yards per return. Sophomore Mike Malone earned first team All-Southern Conference honors with a 31.29 yards per kickoff return average, ranking second nationally. Two offensive linemen and the team's punter captured second team all-league accolades.
In 2004, WCU ranked 12th nationally in total defense and 15th in pass defense, largely due to the production of Rhule's linebacker corps. The team's top five tacklers were linebackers in its eight man front scheme. In 2003, the Catamounts led the SoCon in rush defense for the first time in school history.
Rhule arrived at Western Carolina after serving as assistant defensive line coach at UCLA in 2001. He assisted in coaching five Bruins that earned All PAC-10 honors as the team posted a 7-4 record under head coach Bob Toledo.
From 1999 to 2000, Rhule served as an assistant coach at Mid-American Conference member Buffalo, directing the Bulls defensive line in 2000 and working as assistant defensive line coach in 1999. In 2000, the team's sack total increased from 12 to 27 utilizing a 3-4 alignment. Buffalo also earned its first two Division I-A victories that season.
Rhule began his coaching career as a volunteer assistant at Penn State in the spring of 1998 before working at Albright College in Reading, Pa. for the 1998 season. At Albright, he coached the linebackers in a 4-3 scheme and recruited western and central Pennsylvania.
Rhule played four seasons at linebacker with the Nittany Lions under Joe Paterno. A three-time Penn State Scholar-Athlete, he earned Academic All-Big Ten honors in 1997.
Born January 31, 1975, Rhule received his undergraduate degree in political science before earning his master's degree in educational psychology from Buffalo in 2003.
He is married to the former Julie Nibert. The couple has an eight-year old son, Bryant, and is expecting a baby in the spring.
Rhule inherits a Temple team that posted a 4-7 overall record (2-5 in BIG EAST play) in 2012. The Owls returned to the BIG?EAST Conference in 2012 after a seven-year absence and won back-to-back league games for a 2-0 start in BIG?EAST?play, both for the first time in school history.
Temple returns 46 letterwinners and 15 starters, including BIG EAST Rookie of the Year Tyler Matakevich, for the 2013 season. The Owls open the 2013 slate at No. 1 Notre Dame on August 31.
THE MATT RHULE FILE
COACHING EXPERIENCE
Temple University (2006-11, 2012-present)
2012–Head Coach
2011 – Assistant Offensive Coordinator / Tight Ends / Recruiting Coordinator
2008-10 – Offensive Coordinator / Quarterbacks
2007 – Quarterbacks / Recruiting Coordinator
2006 – Defensive Line
New York Giants (2012 season)
2012 – Assistant Offensive Line
Western Carolina University (2002-05)
2005 – Assistant Head Coach / Offensive Line / Special Teams / Run Game Coordinator
2003-04 – Assistant Head Coach / Linebackers / Special Teams
2002 – Linebackers / Special Teams
UCLA (2001)
2001 – Assistant Defensive Line
University of Buffalo (1999-00)
2000 – Defensive Live
1999 – Assistant Defensive Line
Albright College (1998)
1998 – Linebackers
PERSONAL
Year Coaching: 15th
College: Penn State University '97
B.A. in Political Science
University of Buffalo '03
M.A. in Educational Psychology
Hometown: State College, Pa.
High School: State College Area
Born: January 31, 1975
Family: Wife – Julie
Children: Bryant (10/28/04)
PLAYING
Penn State University (1994-97) – Linebacker
MATT RHULE'S BOWL HISTORY?(6)
Bowl Date Result
Rose Jan. 1, 1995 #2 Penn State 38, #12 Oregon 20
Outback Jan. 1, 1996 #15 Penn State 43, #12 Auburn 14
Fiesta Jan. 1, 1997 #7 Penn State 38, #20 Texas 15
Florida Citrus Jan. 1, 1998 #6 Florida 21, #11 Penn State 6
EagleBank Dec. 29, 2009 UCLA 30, Temple 21
Gildan New Mexico Dec. 17, 2011 Temple 37, Wyoming 15
PROMINENT PLAYERS COACHED
TEMPLE:
TE Evan Rodriguez – Two-time first-team All-MAC? honoree. Named to Mackey Award Watch List. Played in the 2012 East-West Shrine Game.
RB Bernard Pierce– Three-time first-team All-Mid-American Conference selection and Heisman Trophy candidate. 2009 MAC Freshman of the Year. School's career record holder in rushing touchdowns, total touchdowns, and points scored.
RB Matt Brown– Two-time All-MAC selection. Lead the team in rushing in 2010.
OL Pat Boyle– 2011 First-Team All-MAC. 2011 ECAC All-Star. Philadelphia Inquirer Academic All-Area Team. Played in the inaugural NFLPA Collegiate Bowl.
OL Derek Dennis– Played in the East-West Shrine Game.
OL Wayne Tribue– 2011 Third-Team All-MAC. 2011 AFCA Good Works Team. Played inthe Casino Del Sol All-Star Game.
QB Adam DiMichele– Two-year starter and team captain; holds the school records for 300-yard games (4) and TDs in a game (6). Team's 2007 and 2008 team MVP. Has played professionally in the NFL, CLF and arena leagues.
C Alex Derenthal– Second-team All-MAC in 2008; two-time ECAC All-Star. 2007 AFCA Good Works Team. Holds the school record for consecutive games as a starter (47). Team's Offensive MVP in 2007 and Team MVP in 2006 as a sophomore.
WR Bruce Francis– Third-Team All-MAC in 2009; holds the school record for career receiving TDs (23) and consecutive games with a reception (38).
DT Terrance Knighton– Temple's first First-Team All-MAC honoree. Ranked No. 2 in the MAC in fumble recoveries in 2008. Finished his senior season with 54 tackles, 7.5 TFL, and 13 ball disruptions. Drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars.
DT Andre Neblett– Temple's first three-time All-MAC honoree. First-team All-MAC as a senior in 2009. Defensive MVP in 2009. Played in every game of his collegiate career. Finished his senior season with 43 tackles, 9.5 TFL, four break-ups, a sack, and an interception.
BUFFALO:
DT Omari Jordan– Recorded 24 total tackles as a senior, including four of them for losses, and tied as team leader with two forced fumbles while starting all 11 games.
NFL PLAYERS COACHED (Round Drafted)
DT Omari Jordan – Buffalo '01 – Carolina Panthers
DT Terrance Knighton (3rd) – Temple '08 – Jacksonville Jaguars
QB Adam DiMichele (FA) ?– Temple '09 – Philadelphia Eagles
OT Devin Tyler (FA) – Temple '09 – Baltimore Ravens
DE Junior Galette (FA) – Temple – New Orleans Saints
DT Andre Neblett (FA) – Temple '10 – Carolina Panthers
DE ?Brian Sanford (FA) – Temple '10 – Cleveland Browns
TE Steve Maneri (FA)?– Temple '10 – New England Patriots
RB Bernard Pierce (3rd) – Temple '12 – Baltimore Ravens
TE Evan Rodriguez (4th) – Temple '12 – Chicago Bears
TE Matt Balasavage (FA) – Temple '12 – Baltimore Ravens
OL Pat Boyle (FA) – Temple '12 – Detroit Lions
OL Derek Dennis (FA) – Temple '12 – Miami Dolphins
QB Chester Stewart (FA) – Temple '12 – Baltimore Ravens
WR Rod Streater (FA) – Temple '12 – Oakland Raiders
OL Wayne Tribue (FA) – Temple '12 – Denver Broncos
WHAT THEY'RE SAYING ABOUT MATT RHULE
“It's a pleasure to welcome Matt Rhule to the BIG EAST Conference. Matt has already contributed to some of Temple's most successful teams as an assistant, and he has impressive credentials at the college and professional levels that make him a perfect fit to build on that success as head coach.”
– Commissioner Mike Aresco, BIG EAST Conference
“Matt is a good, young coach. He has very good command, and is thorough and detailed in his assignments and with personnel. He has an outstanding background in the game, and the players like and respect him. He will be a great representative for Temple University and leader of that football program.”
– Head Coach Tom Coughlin, New York Giants
“From the minute that he stepped foot here and became our assistant, you could tell he was a guy that was passionate about football. He loves the games; he loves being around it. He's a guy who brings that energy each and every day for us in the offensive line room. He not only looks at us up front, but he's able to read things with linebackers and coverage's that actually make an influence on what happens with us up front. Not a lot of guys can do that. The other thing he does is: every single Friday, he's in charge of our goal line presentation. That's his thing. Each and every game day, each and every week, he's in charge of the goal line and when he comes up there, number one, he brings a lot of energy; number two, there's not a single thing that's left undone. He's detail-oriented and every single person in the room knows exactly what they have to do regardless of what situation they're in. If they stem to something, what they do. Each and every person is prepared so that on Sunday, you're not thinking, you're just reacting to it. For him to be a head coach, he's a young energetic guy who's passionate about the game. He loves the game, and most importantly, aside from all of his knowledge and what he brings to the game, he's a great guy. He's a great man, he's a father and he's a character guy who's going to be able to really help young men become men."
– OT David Diehl, New York Giants
“What a great day for Matt and Julie Rhule and the Temple Owls' Family! Coach Rhule was on the front line of the transformation that lead to three straight 8+ winning seasons, two bowl games, the longest winning streak in school history and the 2011 New Mexico Bowl championship. During that span, Matt oversaw an offense that lead the MAC in several statistical categories and produced the likes of NFL stars Evan Rodriquez, Rod Streeter, and Bernard Pierce. In addition, his professionalism and leadership were an essential part of the Owls' transformation to the BIG EAST Conference. Finally, Matt returns to North Broad Street with the added experience of having spent one season under the guidance of World Champion Head Coach Tom Coughlin. A Pennsylvania native, Matt will bring stability and continuity to the Temple Owls and will provide leadership and vision in the Delaware Valley for years to come.”
– Head Coach Al Golden, Miami Hurricanes (former Temple head coach, 2006-10)
“It sounds like Bill Bradshaw has selected a coach who has knowledge of Temple, who is a good recruiter, and who has experience on both the collegiate and professional levels. He should spur the program on to greater heights.”
– Wayne Hardin, former Temple head coach (1970-82)
“Matt Rhule knows the entire landscape at Temple. The players, present and past, trust him. I'm extremely happy for him and the Owls' family.”
– TV Anchor Kevin Negandhi (Temple '97), ESPN SportsCenter
ALUMNI PLAYERS
“Coach Rhule is a great move for the program. He lives and breathes Temple; his passion as a coach is evident in his endless pursuit to becoming the best coach in the country. Throughout my years at Temple he was continuously looking at new schemes and concepts to improve our chances of winning every week. I have nothing but excitement for the future of our program with Coach Rhule, a true players' coach with the only goal of making every player a better person when they finish their careers at Temple.”
– OL Pat Boyle (2008-11), 2011 first-team All-MAC honoree
“I couldn't be more happy with Coach Rhule as the new head coach. He is a Temple guy. He is a guy that is here to stay, not transition to somewhere else. I have played for him and loved every minute of it. He is the only reason I stayed at Temple all four years. He is a people person and knows how to motivate his players the right way. I am so excited to see Temple these next coming years knowing that our plane is being flown by a Temple pilot.”
– RB Matt Brown (2009-12), 2012 BIG EAST Special Teams Player of the Year
“If anybody is Temple MADE, it's Coach Rhule. He's been with Temple from the beginning when times were rough, till when we became a great team. He knows the program very well. He also has us (former players) backing him up 100 percent.”
– DE Morkeith Brown (2008-11), 2011 All-MAC honoree
“I can honestly say Temple got the most genuine coach ever. Matt Rhule loves his players and will push them as hard as he can past their limits. I learned a lot playing for him. He is a true Owl!”
– OL Derek Dennis (2007-11), Chicago Bears
“What an amazing day for the Temple Owls' football family! Matt Rhule is the absolute perfect guy to lead the program to heights never before seen in my lifetime. A father-like figure, a disciplinarian, a football guru, a friend, and an extreme motivator are words that can describe Coach Rhule. In my opinion, Temple University won big with this hire. Coach Rhule will recruit extremely well, treat his players fairly and get the absolute most out of each guy both on and off the field.”
– QB Adam DiMichele (2006-08), Philadelphia Soul
“Coach Rhule has been a great inspiration and coach for our team when I played at Temple. There is no one that I could say that is more deserving of the job. He will continue the legacy that we started with the Golden Era. Now it is 'Rhule's Rule'. I expect nothing but greatness to continue under Coach Rhule. Congratulations to Coach and Go Owls!!! Hoot hoot!!!”
– DB Dominique Harris (2006-09), CFL Hamilton Tiger-Cats
“I'm really happy for Coach Rhule. I think he definitely deserves it, and I'm sure he's going to make the best of this opportunity. I can't wait to see where he takes this program next. I'm excited.”
– DB Jaiquawn Jarrett (2007-10), three-time All-MAC honoree
“Temple University is in a position to become a power house. Coach Rhule is one of those coaches that you can trust to not only mold a football player but mold a teen into a man. I'm proud to say I support Coach Rhule 110%, and his new role will be one to remember for a long time.”
– LB Alex Joseph (2006-09), CFL Hamilton Tiger-Cats
“I am ecstatic that Matt Rhule was Bill's choice. Matt is a guy who has been through the wars at Temple before. He knows what it takes. He knows the hurdles that come with coaching at Temple University. He comes with nothing but the highest recommendations from the Giants' organization, and he's not someone who will walk away; he's in for the long haul. What a great job Bill has done. He's seen the program at the lowest of lows and the highest of highs, and he's been the football program's rock throughout all of this.”
– DT Dan Klecko (1999-02), 2002 Associated Press All-American
“It's a happy day at Temple University in bringing back a guy who really wants to be here, a fellow who knows what Temple University is all about. Having Coach Rhule come in here after spending time under a very successful regime under Al Golden and also spending the time under Tom Coughlin, I'm sure he learned a lot. I'm sure it's nothing but a positive sign for Temple football.”
– NT Joe Klecko (1973-76), two-time Associated Press All-American
“Coach Rhule is very passionate and genuinely cares about the guys he coaches. I still have a good relationship with him, and he played a huge role in me being in the NFL today.”
– DT Terrance Knighton (2005-08), Jacksonville Jaguars
“Passion. Dedication. Toughness. These are the qualities that turned this program around a few years ago. Matt was a pillar of these qualities during our years together at Temple, and he was a huge part of the turnaround. Bill Bradshaw once again picked the right guy. I'm excited he's back. I'm excited for our program. Go Owls!”
– TE Steve Maneri (2006-09), Kansas City Chiefs
“I am very excited to learn that Temple has named Matt Rhule as the new head coach. I look forward to seeing this new era in Temple football under his watch. Temple players will all enjoy playing for him as I have. I'm glad to see him back, and I have a lot of respect for Coach Rhule. I wish both him and Temple much luck and success in his new position as head coach."
– RB Bernard Pierce (2009-11), Baltimore Ravens
“Matt Rhule is a great guy. He will be a good coach, someone who will make a big difference on a Temple program on the rise.”
– DE Adrian Robinson (2008-11), Pittsburgh Steelers
“Bill Bradshaw picked the right guy for the job. I couldn't be any happier for Temple and Coach Rhule as the head coach. This is a man who worked from the bottom up. Nothing came easy to him. He earned it, and I'm just happy for him and the TU program. Great man. Big Things next year. TEMPLE TUFF.”
– FB/TE Evan Rodriguez (2009-11), Chicago Bears
“Mr. Bradshaw does a great job of finding coaches who are committed to their players and to excellence. Coach Rhule is a great coach who will connect with the players and bring the best out of players and coaches. This is a great move to take the program to the next level.”
– WR Rod Streater (2010-11), Oakland Raiders
“Coach Rhule is a great fit for Temple as a head coach. He knows the program and the area, as proven through his previous track record on the staff. He has recruited the best players before and will continue to do so to keep Temple on the level the fans and previous players have become accustomed to. I am truly happy to see him in that position and know his effort will never be questioned.”
– OL Wayne Tribue (2008-11), 2011 All-MAC honoree
PHILADELPHIA, Pa. – Matt Rhule [pronounced rule], who has 15 seasons of coaching experience on the collegiate and professional levels, has been named Temple University's 26th head football coach. He most recently served as the assistant offensive line coach with the New York Giants.
The State College, Pa., native, a former player at Penn State, has 14 years of collegiate coaching experience, including six seasons at Temple, and six bowl games-- two with the Owls-- on his resume.
“We had a diverse and talented pool of candidates and an overwhelming amount of interest in the Temple football head coaching position, but one person distinguished himself from the rest – Matt Rhule,” said Temple University Director of Athletics Bill Bradshaw. “Matt is the perfect person to take the Temple football program to the next level. He is an outstanding recruiter and in his six years at Temple was responsible for bringing many of the players that helped the program win its first bowl in 32 years. He is one of the top young minds in the profession, and has a total understanding of the game. And clearly he is someone who loves Temple, and is already ingrained into the Temple community.”
Rhule, 37, joined the Giants last spring. He worked closely with Pat Flaherty, who has been the offensive line coach since 2004.
During his previous tenure at Temple, Rhule's role changed several times. Last spring, he was promoted to co-offensive coordinator after serving as the assistant offensive coordinator and tight ends coach as well as the recruiting coordinator under Steve Addazio in 2011. Temple's 2012 recruiting class was ranked No. 1 in the Mid-American Conference and helped lay the foundation for the program's transition to the BIG EAST Conference.
Under Al Golden, Rhule was promoted to offensive coordinator in the spring of 2008. He also coached the TU quarterbacks. He coached the defensive line in 2006 and served as the quarterbacks coach and recruiting coordinator during the 2006 and 2007 seasons. For three consecutive years, Temple's recruiting class was ranked No. 1 in the MAC [2006, 2007, 2008].
In 2011, the Owls went 9-4 and played in the fourth bowl game in school history, the Gildan New Mexico Bowl, where they crushed Wyoming, 37-15 – Temple's first postseason victory since the 1979 Garden State Bowl. Rhule mentored two-time first-team All-MAC selection TE Evan Rodriguez. For the second time in Rhule's tenure, the Owls set the Temple single-season rushing yardage record and rushing touchdowns records behind the explosive efforts of All-MAC junior running backs Bernard Pierce and Matt Brown.
In 2010, Rhule guided the offense to the largest margin of victory in a MAC game. Helping the team to an 8-4 regular-season record, the Owls recorded back-to-back winning seasons for the first time since 1978-79, including their first win over a BCS team. The Owls recorded the largest margin of victory (42 points) in a MAC game against Buffalo. A school record six offensive players earned All-MAC honors, including repeat first-team honorees OL Colin Madison, OL Darius Morris, and RB Bernard Pierce as well as first-time honoree TE Evan Rodriguez.
In 2009, Rhule's offense helped TU win a single-season record nine consecutive games en route to a 9-4 overall record and first-place tie in the MAC East. Under Rhule's guidance, the Owls set the Temple single-season rushing yardage record. A school record five offensive players were named All-MAC, including three on the first team. All-American Bernard Pierce rushed his way into the Temple record book, re-writing all records for a rookie en route to 2009 MAC Freshman of the Year honors.
In 2008, Rhule took the reins as offensive coordinator, helping the Owls to their most wins in nearly two decades. The Owls out-scored their opponents for the season for the first time since 1990. Rhule coached All-MAC honorees C Alex Derenthal and school record holder WR Bruce Francis, while QB Adam DiMichele set the school record for passing touchdowns with six in the 55-52 win over Eastern Michigan. WR Bruce Francis set the school records for career receiving TDs (23) and consecutive games with a reception (38).
Rhule arrived in Owl Country after spending four seasons as an assistant coach at Western Carolina, including three as assistant head coach.
From 2002 to 2005, Rhule was an assistant at Western Carolina under head coach Kent Briggs, serving as assistant head coach during his last three seasons. In 2005, he was offensive line coach and run game coordinator after directing the linebackers his first three years. Rhule was special teams coordinator during his tenure in Cullowhee (N.C.). In 2005, the Catamounts led Division I-AA in kickoff returns, averaging 27.44 yards per return. Sophomore Mike Malone earned first team All-Southern Conference honors with a 31.29 yards per kickoff return average, ranking second nationally. Two offensive linemen and the team's punter captured second team all-league accolades.
In 2004, WCU ranked 12th nationally in total defense and 15th in pass defense, largely due to the production of Rhule's linebacker corps. The team's top five tacklers were linebackers in its eight man front scheme. In 2003, the Catamounts led the SoCon in rush defense for the first time in school history.
Rhule arrived at Western Carolina after serving as assistant defensive line coach at UCLA in 2001. He assisted in coaching five Bruins that earned All PAC-10 honors as the team posted a 7-4 record under head coach Bob Toledo.
From 1999 to 2000, Rhule served as an assistant coach at Mid-American Conference member Buffalo, directing the Bulls defensive line in 2000 and working as assistant defensive line coach in 1999. In 2000, the team's sack total increased from 12 to 27 utilizing a 3-4 alignment. Buffalo also earned its first two Division I-A victories that season.
Rhule began his coaching career as a volunteer assistant at Penn State in the spring of 1998 before working at Albright College in Reading, Pa. for the 1998 season. At Albright, he coached the linebackers in a 4-3 scheme and recruited western and central Pennsylvania.
Rhule played four seasons at linebacker with the Nittany Lions under Joe Paterno. A three-time Penn State Scholar-Athlete, he earned Academic All-Big Ten honors in 1997.
Born January 31, 1975, Rhule received his undergraduate degree in political science before earning his master's degree in educational psychology from Buffalo in 2003.
He is married to the former Julie Nibert. The couple has an eight-year old son, Bryant, and is expecting a baby in the spring.
Rhule inherits a Temple team that posted a 4-7 overall record (2-5 in BIG EAST play) in 2012. The Owls returned to the BIG?EAST Conference in 2012 after a seven-year absence and won back-to-back league games for a 2-0 start in BIG?EAST?play, both for the first time in school history.
Temple returns 46 letterwinners and 15 starters, including BIG EAST Rookie of the Year Tyler Matakevich, for the 2013 season. The Owls open the 2013 slate at No. 1 Notre Dame on August 31.
THE MATT RHULE FILE
COACHING EXPERIENCE
Temple University (2006-11, 2012-present)
2012–Head Coach
2011 – Assistant Offensive Coordinator / Tight Ends / Recruiting Coordinator
2008-10 – Offensive Coordinator / Quarterbacks
2007 – Quarterbacks / Recruiting Coordinator
2006 – Defensive Line
New York Giants (2012 season)
2012 – Assistant Offensive Line
Western Carolina University (2002-05)
2005 – Assistant Head Coach / Offensive Line / Special Teams / Run Game Coordinator
2003-04 – Assistant Head Coach / Linebackers / Special Teams
2002 – Linebackers / Special Teams
UCLA (2001)
2001 – Assistant Defensive Line
University of Buffalo (1999-00)
2000 – Defensive Live
1999 – Assistant Defensive Line
Albright College (1998)
1998 – Linebackers
PERSONAL
Year Coaching: 15th
College: Penn State University '97
B.A. in Political Science
University of Buffalo '03
M.A. in Educational Psychology
Hometown: State College, Pa.
High School: State College Area
Born: January 31, 1975
Family: Wife – Julie
Children: Bryant (10/28/04)
PLAYING
Penn State University (1994-97) – Linebacker
MATT RHULE'S BOWL HISTORY?(6)
Bowl Date Result
Rose Jan. 1, 1995 #2 Penn State 38, #12 Oregon 20
Outback Jan. 1, 1996 #15 Penn State 43, #12 Auburn 14
Fiesta Jan. 1, 1997 #7 Penn State 38, #20 Texas 15
Florida Citrus Jan. 1, 1998 #6 Florida 21, #11 Penn State 6
EagleBank Dec. 29, 2009 UCLA 30, Temple 21
Gildan New Mexico Dec. 17, 2011 Temple 37, Wyoming 15
PROMINENT PLAYERS COACHED
TEMPLE:
TE Evan Rodriguez – Two-time first-team All-MAC? honoree. Named to Mackey Award Watch List. Played in the 2012 East-West Shrine Game.
RB Bernard Pierce– Three-time first-team All-Mid-American Conference selection and Heisman Trophy candidate. 2009 MAC Freshman of the Year. School's career record holder in rushing touchdowns, total touchdowns, and points scored.
RB Matt Brown– Two-time All-MAC selection. Lead the team in rushing in 2010.
OL Pat Boyle– 2011 First-Team All-MAC. 2011 ECAC All-Star. Philadelphia Inquirer Academic All-Area Team. Played in the inaugural NFLPA Collegiate Bowl.
OL Derek Dennis– Played in the East-West Shrine Game.
OL Wayne Tribue– 2011 Third-Team All-MAC. 2011 AFCA Good Works Team. Played inthe Casino Del Sol All-Star Game.
QB Adam DiMichele– Two-year starter and team captain; holds the school records for 300-yard games (4) and TDs in a game (6). Team's 2007 and 2008 team MVP. Has played professionally in the NFL, CLF and arena leagues.
C Alex Derenthal– Second-team All-MAC in 2008; two-time ECAC All-Star. 2007 AFCA Good Works Team. Holds the school record for consecutive games as a starter (47). Team's Offensive MVP in 2007 and Team MVP in 2006 as a sophomore.
WR Bruce Francis– Third-Team All-MAC in 2009; holds the school record for career receiving TDs (23) and consecutive games with a reception (38).
DT Terrance Knighton– Temple's first First-Team All-MAC honoree. Ranked No. 2 in the MAC in fumble recoveries in 2008. Finished his senior season with 54 tackles, 7.5 TFL, and 13 ball disruptions. Drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars.
DT Andre Neblett– Temple's first three-time All-MAC honoree. First-team All-MAC as a senior in 2009. Defensive MVP in 2009. Played in every game of his collegiate career. Finished his senior season with 43 tackles, 9.5 TFL, four break-ups, a sack, and an interception.
BUFFALO:
DT Omari Jordan– Recorded 24 total tackles as a senior, including four of them for losses, and tied as team leader with two forced fumbles while starting all 11 games.
NFL PLAYERS COACHED (Round Drafted)
DT Omari Jordan – Buffalo '01 – Carolina Panthers
DT Terrance Knighton (3rd) – Temple '08 – Jacksonville Jaguars
QB Adam DiMichele (FA) ?– Temple '09 – Philadelphia Eagles
OT Devin Tyler (FA) – Temple '09 – Baltimore Ravens
DE Junior Galette (FA) – Temple – New Orleans Saints
DT Andre Neblett (FA) – Temple '10 – Carolina Panthers
DE ?Brian Sanford (FA) – Temple '10 – Cleveland Browns
TE Steve Maneri (FA)?– Temple '10 – New England Patriots
RB Bernard Pierce (3rd) – Temple '12 – Baltimore Ravens
TE Evan Rodriguez (4th) – Temple '12 – Chicago Bears
TE Matt Balasavage (FA) – Temple '12 – Baltimore Ravens
OL Pat Boyle (FA) – Temple '12 – Detroit Lions
OL Derek Dennis (FA) – Temple '12 – Miami Dolphins
QB Chester Stewart (FA) – Temple '12 – Baltimore Ravens
WR Rod Streater (FA) – Temple '12 – Oakland Raiders
OL Wayne Tribue (FA) – Temple '12 – Denver Broncos
WHAT THEY'RE SAYING ABOUT MATT RHULE
“It's a pleasure to welcome Matt Rhule to the BIG EAST Conference. Matt has already contributed to some of Temple's most successful teams as an assistant, and he has impressive credentials at the college and professional levels that make him a perfect fit to build on that success as head coach.”
– Commissioner Mike Aresco, BIG EAST Conference
“Matt is a good, young coach. He has very good command, and is thorough and detailed in his assignments and with personnel. He has an outstanding background in the game, and the players like and respect him. He will be a great representative for Temple University and leader of that football program.”
– Head Coach Tom Coughlin, New York Giants
“From the minute that he stepped foot here and became our assistant, you could tell he was a guy that was passionate about football. He loves the games; he loves being around it. He's a guy who brings that energy each and every day for us in the offensive line room. He not only looks at us up front, but he's able to read things with linebackers and coverage's that actually make an influence on what happens with us up front. Not a lot of guys can do that. The other thing he does is: every single Friday, he's in charge of our goal line presentation. That's his thing. Each and every game day, each and every week, he's in charge of the goal line and when he comes up there, number one, he brings a lot of energy; number two, there's not a single thing that's left undone. He's detail-oriented and every single person in the room knows exactly what they have to do regardless of what situation they're in. If they stem to something, what they do. Each and every person is prepared so that on Sunday, you're not thinking, you're just reacting to it. For him to be a head coach, he's a young energetic guy who's passionate about the game. He loves the game, and most importantly, aside from all of his knowledge and what he brings to the game, he's a great guy. He's a great man, he's a father and he's a character guy who's going to be able to really help young men become men."
– OT David Diehl, New York Giants
“What a great day for Matt and Julie Rhule and the Temple Owls' Family! Coach Rhule was on the front line of the transformation that lead to three straight 8+ winning seasons, two bowl games, the longest winning streak in school history and the 2011 New Mexico Bowl championship. During that span, Matt oversaw an offense that lead the MAC in several statistical categories and produced the likes of NFL stars Evan Rodriquez, Rod Streeter, and Bernard Pierce. In addition, his professionalism and leadership were an essential part of the Owls' transformation to the BIG EAST Conference. Finally, Matt returns to North Broad Street with the added experience of having spent one season under the guidance of World Champion Head Coach Tom Coughlin. A Pennsylvania native, Matt will bring stability and continuity to the Temple Owls and will provide leadership and vision in the Delaware Valley for years to come.”
– Head Coach Al Golden, Miami Hurricanes (former Temple head coach, 2006-10)
“It sounds like Bill Bradshaw has selected a coach who has knowledge of Temple, who is a good recruiter, and who has experience on both the collegiate and professional levels. He should spur the program on to greater heights.”
– Wayne Hardin, former Temple head coach (1970-82)
“Matt Rhule knows the entire landscape at Temple. The players, present and past, trust him. I'm extremely happy for him and the Owls' family.”
– TV Anchor Kevin Negandhi (Temple '97), ESPN SportsCenter
ALUMNI PLAYERS
“Coach Rhule is a great move for the program. He lives and breathes Temple; his passion as a coach is evident in his endless pursuit to becoming the best coach in the country. Throughout my years at Temple he was continuously looking at new schemes and concepts to improve our chances of winning every week. I have nothing but excitement for the future of our program with Coach Rhule, a true players' coach with the only goal of making every player a better person when they finish their careers at Temple.”
– OL Pat Boyle (2008-11), 2011 first-team All-MAC honoree
“I couldn't be more happy with Coach Rhule as the new head coach. He is a Temple guy. He is a guy that is here to stay, not transition to somewhere else. I have played for him and loved every minute of it. He is the only reason I stayed at Temple all four years. He is a people person and knows how to motivate his players the right way. I am so excited to see Temple these next coming years knowing that our plane is being flown by a Temple pilot.”
– RB Matt Brown (2009-12), 2012 BIG EAST Special Teams Player of the Year
“If anybody is Temple MADE, it's Coach Rhule. He's been with Temple from the beginning when times were rough, till when we became a great team. He knows the program very well. He also has us (former players) backing him up 100 percent.”
– DE Morkeith Brown (2008-11), 2011 All-MAC honoree
“I can honestly say Temple got the most genuine coach ever. Matt Rhule loves his players and will push them as hard as he can past their limits. I learned a lot playing for him. He is a true Owl!”
– OL Derek Dennis (2007-11), Chicago Bears
“What an amazing day for the Temple Owls' football family! Matt Rhule is the absolute perfect guy to lead the program to heights never before seen in my lifetime. A father-like figure, a disciplinarian, a football guru, a friend, and an extreme motivator are words that can describe Coach Rhule. In my opinion, Temple University won big with this hire. Coach Rhule will recruit extremely well, treat his players fairly and get the absolute most out of each guy both on and off the field.”
– QB Adam DiMichele (2006-08), Philadelphia Soul
“Coach Rhule has been a great inspiration and coach for our team when I played at Temple. There is no one that I could say that is more deserving of the job. He will continue the legacy that we started with the Golden Era. Now it is 'Rhule's Rule'. I expect nothing but greatness to continue under Coach Rhule. Congratulations to Coach and Go Owls!!! Hoot hoot!!!”
– DB Dominique Harris (2006-09), CFL Hamilton Tiger-Cats
“I'm really happy for Coach Rhule. I think he definitely deserves it, and I'm sure he's going to make the best of this opportunity. I can't wait to see where he takes this program next. I'm excited.”
– DB Jaiquawn Jarrett (2007-10), three-time All-MAC honoree
“Temple University is in a position to become a power house. Coach Rhule is one of those coaches that you can trust to not only mold a football player but mold a teen into a man. I'm proud to say I support Coach Rhule 110%, and his new role will be one to remember for a long time.”
– LB Alex Joseph (2006-09), CFL Hamilton Tiger-Cats
“I am ecstatic that Matt Rhule was Bill's choice. Matt is a guy who has been through the wars at Temple before. He knows what it takes. He knows the hurdles that come with coaching at Temple University. He comes with nothing but the highest recommendations from the Giants' organization, and he's not someone who will walk away; he's in for the long haul. What a great job Bill has done. He's seen the program at the lowest of lows and the highest of highs, and he's been the football program's rock throughout all of this.”
– DT Dan Klecko (1999-02), 2002 Associated Press All-American
“It's a happy day at Temple University in bringing back a guy who really wants to be here, a fellow who knows what Temple University is all about. Having Coach Rhule come in here after spending time under a very successful regime under Al Golden and also spending the time under Tom Coughlin, I'm sure he learned a lot. I'm sure it's nothing but a positive sign for Temple football.”
– NT Joe Klecko (1973-76), two-time Associated Press All-American
“Coach Rhule is very passionate and genuinely cares about the guys he coaches. I still have a good relationship with him, and he played a huge role in me being in the NFL today.”
– DT Terrance Knighton (2005-08), Jacksonville Jaguars
“Passion. Dedication. Toughness. These are the qualities that turned this program around a few years ago. Matt was a pillar of these qualities during our years together at Temple, and he was a huge part of the turnaround. Bill Bradshaw once again picked the right guy. I'm excited he's back. I'm excited for our program. Go Owls!”
– TE Steve Maneri (2006-09), Kansas City Chiefs
“I am very excited to learn that Temple has named Matt Rhule as the new head coach. I look forward to seeing this new era in Temple football under his watch. Temple players will all enjoy playing for him as I have. I'm glad to see him back, and I have a lot of respect for Coach Rhule. I wish both him and Temple much luck and success in his new position as head coach."
– RB Bernard Pierce (2009-11), Baltimore Ravens
“Matt Rhule is a great guy. He will be a good coach, someone who will make a big difference on a Temple program on the rise.”
– DE Adrian Robinson (2008-11), Pittsburgh Steelers
“Bill Bradshaw picked the right guy for the job. I couldn't be any happier for Temple and Coach Rhule as the head coach. This is a man who worked from the bottom up. Nothing came easy to him. He earned it, and I'm just happy for him and the TU program. Great man. Big Things next year. TEMPLE TUFF.”
– FB/TE Evan Rodriguez (2009-11), Chicago Bears
“Mr. Bradshaw does a great job of finding coaches who are committed to their players and to excellence. Coach Rhule is a great coach who will connect with the players and bring the best out of players and coaches. This is a great move to take the program to the next level.”
– WR Rod Streater (2010-11), Oakland Raiders
“Coach Rhule is a great fit for Temple as a head coach. He knows the program and the area, as proven through his previous track record on the staff. He has recruited the best players before and will continue to do so to keep Temple on the level the fans and previous players have become accustomed to. I am truly happy to see him in that position and know his effort will never be questioned.”
– OL Wayne Tribue (2008-11), 2011 All-MAC honoree
Ep. 6: Temple Athletics Weekly Recap; Field Hockey's Peyton Rieger
Tuesday, September 23
Evan Simon, 9/20/25
Sunday, September 21
Eric Stuart, 9/20/25
Sunday, September 21
K.C. Keeler, 9/20/25
Sunday, September 21
