Matt Rhule has indicated Nebraska plans to use a redshirt on defensive lineman Riley Van Poppel this season, a plan that might have surprised some after Van Poppel saw action in 11 games as a true freshman.

On Monday, the head coach nailed down the plans to have Van Poppel be a 4-game guy. The defender has already appeared in 2 games, meaning he can play in 2 more regular season games while maintaining a year of eligibility.

Asked to explain his mindset, Rhule said it’s all about maximizing the impact with Van Poppel able to play this year but likely being limited to a handful of plays per game barring injuries to Nebraska’s defense.

“You can play 8-10 plays a game this year, or you can be Ty Robinson or one of those guys when they leave this year,” said Rhule. “So, that’s a decision they make. It’s a credit to Riley, it’s a credit to his family.”

A 4-star recruit a season ago per the 247 Sports Composite, Van Poppel delivered 5 tackles, a TFL and half a sack. While Rhule understands some coaches have the mindset of playing guys no matter what in the transfer portal era, he believes it is his responsibility to do what is best for the players, regardless of the fallout.

“I just think it’s trust,” Rhule said about Van Poppel opting to use a redshirt. “In an era when a lot of coaches go ‘Aw, they’re going to transfer anyway, play them.’ Just because the system has changed doesn’t mean the coaching should change. While Riley could certainly help us, we have other guys who we think can help us… And we have 2 more games with Riley (to preserve a redshirt).”