Temple University Athletics
Football
Rhule, Matt
Matt Rhule
- Title:
- Head Coach
- Email:
- nharvin@temple.edu
- Phone:
- 215-204-0858
PHOTO GALLERY | VIDEO
On December 17, 2012, Matt Rhule (pronounced RULE) returned to North Broad Street to take the helm as head coach of the Temple Owls. Following six seasons as one of Al Golden’s top assistants, he joined the New York Giants as the assistant offensive line coach in 2012. He is now in his fourth year as the 26th Owls head coach and tenth on the Temple campus.
Prior to the start of his first season in charge, he offered that his squad would produce an exciting brand of football and they would improve as the season progressed. Rhule delivered on those promises as the 2013 Owls produced nearly 400 yards per game of offense (the second best total in school history). Despite an 0-6 start to the season, the troops never surrendered and the team never trailed at the start of the fourth quarter in the second half of the season. The mission in the 2014 offseason was to learn how to finish out games.
They did just that, allowing only 23 4th quarter points in all of 2014. That adjustment, and the overall improved play of the defense, helped the Owls to a 6-6 record.
On June 25, 2015, Rhule was rewarded with a four-year contract extension that will keep him on the Temple sidelines through the 2021 season. Temple’s Director of Athletics Dr. Patrick Kraft announced, “Matt Rhule is one of the best young coaches in college football and we are excited that he will be at the helm of Temple Football through at least 2021. Matt has the program heading in the right direction, especially as we enter a very promising season on the gridiron, and we are confident that he is the right person to take the program to even greater heights."
And take the program to greater heights he did. In 2015, Rhule has led his team to a 10-win regular season and an American Athletic East division trophy. For the first time in 73 years, the Owls beat Penn State, started the season a program-best 7-0, and were ranked in the Top 25 for the first time in 36 seasons. Ten of his players earned all-conference honors and senior linebacker Tyler Matakevich won the Bednarik and Nagurski Awards, while also being named a finalist for the Lott IMPACT and Senior CLASS Awards.
That success prompted another commitment from Temple University following the season. Said University President Dr. Neil Theobald, “Matt's commitment to our student-athletes on and off the field, as well as the program's substantial improvement each season, has more than justified my confidence in him. He works tirelessly for the betterment of our players, our football program, and our university."
Added Kraft, “Matt is one of the top coaches in college football and has been responsible for making Temple a national program. He is an even better person off the field; a true leader who instills character and values in the men under his charge.”
The State College, PA, native and a former player at Penn State, has 18 years of collegiate coaching experience, including nine seasons at Temple, and seven bowl games -- three with the Owls -- on his resume.
Rhule joined the Giants in the spring of 2012. He worked closely with Pat Flaherty, who has been the offensive line coach since 2004. They finished the 2012 campaign at 9-7, second in the NFC East, and averaged 355 yards of offense per game. Four New York players, including guard Chris Snee, were selected to the Pro Bowl.
During his previous tenure at Temple, Rhule’s role changed several times. In spring 2012, 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 #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 #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 helped guide the team to an 8-4 regular-season record, and 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 against Buffalo) in a MAC game. 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 outscored 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. Francis set the school records for career receiving touchdowns (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 (NC). 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. He received his undergraduate degree in political science before earning his master’s degree in educational psychology from Buffalo in 2003.
Born January 31, 1975, he spent his childhood in New York City before moving to State College, PA, as a teenager.
He is married to the former Julie Nibert. The couple has a son, Bryant (11), and daughters, Vivienne (3) and Leona (six months).
THE MATT RHULE FILE
PERSONAL
Year Coaching: 19th
Year Coaching College: 18th
Year Coaching at Temple: 10th
Year at current position: 4th
College: Penn State University ‘97
B.A. in Political Science
University at 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 (11), Vivienne (3), Leona (1)
PLAYING
Penn State University (1994-97) – Linebacker
COACHING EXPERIENCE
Temple University (2006-11, 2013-present)
2013-present – Head Coach
2011 – Assistant Offensive Coordinator / Tight Ends / Recruiting Coord.
2008-10 – Offensive Coordinator / Quarterbacks
2007 – Quarterbacks / Recruiting Coordinator
2006 – Defensive Line
New York Giants (2012)
2012 – Assistant Offensive Line
Western Carolina University (2002-05)
2005 – Asst. Head Coach / O-Line / Special Teams / Run Game Coord.
2003-04 – Assistant Head Coach / Linebackers / Special Teams
2002 – Linebackers / Special Teams
UCLA (2001)
2001 – Assistant Defensive Line
University at Buffalo (1999-00)
2000 – Defensive Line
1999 – Assistant Defensive Line
Albright College (1998)
1998 – Linebackers
NFL PLAYERS COACHED (Round Drafted)
DT Omari Jordan (FA) – 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
DB Maurice Jones (FA) – Temple ‘13 – Chicago Bears
OL Martin Wallace (FA) – Temple ‘13 – Cleveland Browns
“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.”
– Tom Coughlin, Former Head Coach 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.”
– Al Golden, 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 Eagles & 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, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
“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, Denver Broncos, Washington Redskins
“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, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New York Jets
“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, Jacksonville Jaguars
“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 , Chicago Bears, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New England Patriots
“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
On December 17, 2012, Matt Rhule (pronounced RULE) returned to North Broad Street to take the helm as head coach of the Temple Owls. Following six seasons as one of Al Golden’s top assistants, he joined the New York Giants as the assistant offensive line coach in 2012. He is now in his fourth year as the 26th Owls head coach and tenth on the Temple campus.
Prior to the start of his first season in charge, he offered that his squad would produce an exciting brand of football and they would improve as the season progressed. Rhule delivered on those promises as the 2013 Owls produced nearly 400 yards per game of offense (the second best total in school history). Despite an 0-6 start to the season, the troops never surrendered and the team never trailed at the start of the fourth quarter in the second half of the season. The mission in the 2014 offseason was to learn how to finish out games.
They did just that, allowing only 23 4th quarter points in all of 2014. That adjustment, and the overall improved play of the defense, helped the Owls to a 6-6 record.
On June 25, 2015, Rhule was rewarded with a four-year contract extension that will keep him on the Temple sidelines through the 2021 season. Temple’s Director of Athletics Dr. Patrick Kraft announced, “Matt Rhule is one of the best young coaches in college football and we are excited that he will be at the helm of Temple Football through at least 2021. Matt has the program heading in the right direction, especially as we enter a very promising season on the gridiron, and we are confident that he is the right person to take the program to even greater heights."
And take the program to greater heights he did. In 2015, Rhule has led his team to a 10-win regular season and an American Athletic East division trophy. For the first time in 73 years, the Owls beat Penn State, started the season a program-best 7-0, and were ranked in the Top 25 for the first time in 36 seasons. Ten of his players earned all-conference honors and senior linebacker Tyler Matakevich won the Bednarik and Nagurski Awards, while also being named a finalist for the Lott IMPACT and Senior CLASS Awards.
That success prompted another commitment from Temple University following the season. Said University President Dr. Neil Theobald, “Matt's commitment to our student-athletes on and off the field, as well as the program's substantial improvement each season, has more than justified my confidence in him. He works tirelessly for the betterment of our players, our football program, and our university."
Added Kraft, “Matt is one of the top coaches in college football and has been responsible for making Temple a national program. He is an even better person off the field; a true leader who instills character and values in the men under his charge.”
The State College, PA, native and a former player at Penn State, has 18 years of collegiate coaching experience, including nine seasons at Temple, and seven bowl games -- three with the Owls -- on his resume.
Rhule joined the Giants in the spring of 2012. He worked closely with Pat Flaherty, who has been the offensive line coach since 2004. They finished the 2012 campaign at 9-7, second in the NFC East, and averaged 355 yards of offense per game. Four New York players, including guard Chris Snee, were selected to the Pro Bowl.
During his previous tenure at Temple, Rhule’s role changed several times. In spring 2012, 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 #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 #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 helped guide the team to an 8-4 regular-season record, and 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 against Buffalo) in a MAC game. 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 outscored 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. Francis set the school records for career receiving touchdowns (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 (NC). 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. He received his undergraduate degree in political science before earning his master’s degree in educational psychology from Buffalo in 2003.
Born January 31, 1975, he spent his childhood in New York City before moving to State College, PA, as a teenager.
He is married to the former Julie Nibert. The couple has a son, Bryant (11), and daughters, Vivienne (3) and Leona (six months).
THE MATT RHULE FILE
PERSONAL
Year Coaching: 19th
Year Coaching College: 18th
Year Coaching at Temple: 10th
Year at current position: 4th
College: Penn State University ‘97
B.A. in Political Science
University at 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 (11), Vivienne (3), Leona (1)
PLAYING
Penn State University (1994-97) – Linebacker
COACHING EXPERIENCE
Temple University (2006-11, 2013-present)
2013-present – Head Coach
2011 – Assistant Offensive Coordinator / Tight Ends / Recruiting Coord.
2008-10 – Offensive Coordinator / Quarterbacks
2007 – Quarterbacks / Recruiting Coordinator
2006 – Defensive Line
New York Giants (2012)
2012 – Assistant Offensive Line
Western Carolina University (2002-05)
2005 – Asst. Head Coach / O-Line / Special Teams / Run Game Coord.
2003-04 – Assistant Head Coach / Linebackers / Special Teams
2002 – Linebackers / Special Teams
UCLA (2001)
2001 – Assistant Defensive Line
University at Buffalo (1999-00)
2000 – Defensive Line
1999 – Assistant Defensive Line
Albright College (1998)
1998 – Linebackers
NFL PLAYERS COACHED (Round Drafted)
DT Omari Jordan (FA) – 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
DB Maurice Jones (FA) – Temple ‘13 – Chicago Bears
OL Martin Wallace (FA) – Temple ‘13 – Cleveland Browns
RB Kenneth Harper (FA) - Temple ‘15 - New York Giants
DB Tavon Young (4) - Temple ‘16 - Baltimore Ravens
DL Matt Ioannidis (5) - Temple ‘16 - Washington Redskins
LB Tyler Matakevich (7) - Temple ‘16 - Pittsburgh Steelers
OL Shahbaz Ahmed (FA) - Temple ‘16 - Atlanta Falcons
WR Robby Anderson (FA) - Temple ’16 - New York Jets
OL Kyle Friend (FA) - Temple ’16 - New York Jets
WR Brandon Shippen (FA) - Temple ‘16 - Miami Dolphins
PROMINENT PLAYERS COACHED
NEW YORK GIANTS:
OG KEVIN BOOTHE – Two-time Super Bowl champion.
OT DAVID DIEHL – Two-time Super Bowl champion. Pro Bowl. All-Pro selection.
OG CHRIS SNEE – Two-time Super Bowl champion. Four-time Pro Bowl participant. Three-time All-Pro selection.
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 TDs, total TDs, and points scored.
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 in the 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, CFL and arena leagues.
C ALEX DERENTHAL – Second-team All-MAC in 2008; two-time ECAC All-Star. 2007 AFCA Good Works Team. Holds school record for consecutive starts (47). Team’s Offensive MVP (2007) and Team MVP as a sophomore (2006).
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 #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.
LB TYLER MATAKEVICH – The 2015 Nagurski and Bednarik Award winner as defensive player iof the year. Was a consensus first-team All-American. Hold the school mark for most tackles with 493.
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.
WR ROD STREATER - Played two seasons at Temple and helped the Owls to its frst bowl victory in over 30 years. Caught 49 passes for 882 yards and eight touchdowns in a run-based offense. Signed with the Oakland Raiders as an undrafted free agent in 2012.
LB TAHIR WHITEHEAD - A team captain in 2011 when Temple won the Gildan New Mexico Bowl, the school’s first bowl victory in 30 years. Was selected by the Detroit Lions in the fifth round of the 2012 NFL Draft.
DT MUHAMMAD WILKERSON - A two-time First-Team All-MAC selection. Was selected in the first round of the 2011 NFL draft by the New York Jets (30th overall) and earned all-pro honors in 2013.
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.
WHAT THEY’RE SAYING ABOUT MATT RHULE
"Matt Rhule Could Sell Ice to an Eskimo - Listening to Temple’s third-year coach preach the virtues of his program, their league, their snazzy NFL stadium and the fact that a few former Owls have gone on to the NFL and Philadelphia itself and you can imagine how he dazzles prospective recruits. When Rhule gets on a roll he’s mesmerizing. The fact that he’s got actual NFL coaching experience doesn't hurt, either."
--- Metro Philadelphia, Feb. 5, 2015
DB Tavon Young (4) - Temple ‘16 - Baltimore Ravens
DL Matt Ioannidis (5) - Temple ‘16 - Washington Redskins
LB Tyler Matakevich (7) - Temple ‘16 - Pittsburgh Steelers
OL Shahbaz Ahmed (FA) - Temple ‘16 - Atlanta Falcons
WR Robby Anderson (FA) - Temple ’16 - New York Jets
OL Kyle Friend (FA) - Temple ’16 - New York Jets
WR Brandon Shippen (FA) - Temple ‘16 - Miami Dolphins
PROMINENT PLAYERS COACHED
NEW YORK GIANTS:
OG KEVIN BOOTHE – Two-time Super Bowl champion.
OT DAVID DIEHL – Two-time Super Bowl champion. Pro Bowl. All-Pro selection.
OG CHRIS SNEE – Two-time Super Bowl champion. Four-time Pro Bowl participant. Three-time All-Pro selection.
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 TDs, total TDs, and points scored.
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 in the 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, CFL and arena leagues.
C ALEX DERENTHAL – Second-team All-MAC in 2008; two-time ECAC All-Star. 2007 AFCA Good Works Team. Holds school record for consecutive starts (47). Team’s Offensive MVP (2007) and Team MVP as a sophomore (2006).
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 #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.
LB TYLER MATAKEVICH – The 2015 Nagurski and Bednarik Award winner as defensive player iof the year. Was a consensus first-team All-American. Hold the school mark for most tackles with 493.
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.
WR ROD STREATER - Played two seasons at Temple and helped the Owls to its frst bowl victory in over 30 years. Caught 49 passes for 882 yards and eight touchdowns in a run-based offense. Signed with the Oakland Raiders as an undrafted free agent in 2012.
LB TAHIR WHITEHEAD - A team captain in 2011 when Temple won the Gildan New Mexico Bowl, the school’s first bowl victory in 30 years. Was selected by the Detroit Lions in the fifth round of the 2012 NFL Draft.
DT MUHAMMAD WILKERSON - A two-time First-Team All-MAC selection. Was selected in the first round of the 2011 NFL draft by the New York Jets (30th overall) and earned all-pro honors in 2013.
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.
WHAT THEY’RE SAYING ABOUT MATT RHULE
"Matt Rhule Could Sell Ice to an Eskimo - Listening to Temple’s third-year coach preach the virtues of his program, their league, their snazzy NFL stadium and the fact that a few former Owls have gone on to the NFL and Philadelphia itself and you can imagine how he dazzles prospective recruits. When Rhule gets on a roll he’s mesmerizing. The fact that he’s got actual NFL coaching experience doesn't hurt, either."
--- Metro Philadelphia, Feb. 5, 2015
“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.”
– Tom Coughlin, Former Head Coach 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.”
– Al Golden, 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 Eagles & 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, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
“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, Denver Broncos, Washington Redskins
“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, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New York Jets
“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, Jacksonville Jaguars
“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 , Chicago Bears, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New England Patriots
“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. 2: Temple Football Alum Tyler Matakevich || Gymnastics Junior Amelia Budd
Friday, September 05
Elevate the Owls: Temple Athletics' Competitive Excellence Fund
Tuesday, September 02
Ep. 1: Head Football Coach K.C. Keeler || XC's David Litvin & WLAX's Amelia Wright
Friday, August 29
Introducing The Owl Pod: The Official Podcast of Temple Athletics!
Friday, August 22
