Although likely being one of the top available players in college football had he entered the portal, Nebraska’s Dylan Raiola said there was never a thought of him leaving Lincoln. This statement comes as a relief to Cornhusker fans who have been eagerly following the young quarterback’s journey. With the transfer portal buzzing with activity, Raiola’s commitment to Nebraska stands out as a beacon of stability in a world where player movement has become the norm.
Raiola posts he is ‘all in’ with Nebraska
As rumors surrounding the transfer portal swirled, Dylan Raiola confirmed that he isn’t going anywhere. On December 9th, he took to his Instagram story to declare that he’s “all in” with Nebraska. This bold statement not only reassured fans but also highlighted his dedication to the program and its future.
Raiola addressed his status with the Cornhuskers while speaking with the media on Thursday. He referenced the Instagram story he posted on the day that the transfer cycle began, emphasizing that he wanted to let everyone know that he wasn’t going anywhere and still isn’t now.
“Honestly, it was unfortunate that I had to, you know, kind of reassure everyone I was here,” Raiola said. “I never officially entered and never really was shopping around. So, um, yeah, I don’t really have much to say other than, um, you know, that whole kind of deal was kind of out of my control.”
Raiola’s Impressive Freshman Season
Dylan Raiola certainly lived up to much of his hype as a prospect during his true freshman year at Nebraska. Arriving as a five-star recruit, he was ranked in the top 25 and recognized as the No. 3 quarterback in the 2024 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking. His talent was evident from the start, and he quickly became a key player for the Cornhuskers.
In a dozen starts for the ‘Huskers this season, Raiola completed 253 of 380 passes, achieving an impressive completion rate of 66.6%. He threw for 2,595 yards, racking up a dozen touchdowns against ten interceptions. While his statistics took a dip as the season progressed, particularly after the first third of the fall, he still showcased significant promise. His performance was instrumental in leading Nebraska to the postseason for the first time since 2016, a feat that speaks volumes about his impact on the team.
The Future Looks Bright
Again, if he had entered the transfer portal, Raiola would undoubtedly be one of the most sought-after players in the nation. However, he has made it clear that he’s not going anywhere. “You know, I’m playing quarterback at Nebraska,” he stated confidently, reinforcing his commitment to the program.
This level of dedication is refreshing in today’s college football landscape, where players often prioritize personal gains over team loyalty. Raiola’s decision to stay at Nebraska not only solidifies his role as the Cornhuskers’ QB1 but also sets a positive tone for the team as they look to build on their recent success.
What This Means for Nebraska
Raiola’s commitment is a significant win for Nebraska as they look to establish a strong foundation for the future. With a talented quarterback at the helm, the Cornhuskers can focus on developing their roster and enhancing their performance in upcoming seasons. The stability that Raiola brings is crucial for a program that has faced its share of challenges in recent years.
Moreover, Raiola’s presence can attract other talented recruits who want to play alongside a proven leader. His decision to stay could signal to potential recruits that Nebraska is a place where players can thrive and grow, both on and off the field. This ripple effect can lead to a stronger recruiting class and ultimately a more competitive team.
Conclusion
In a time when many players are opting for greener pastures, Dylan Raiola’s commitment to Nebraska is a breath of fresh air. His impressive freshman performance, coupled with his dedication to the program, paints a promising picture for the future of Cornhusker football. Fans can rest assured that their quarterback is all in, ready to lead Nebraska into a new era of success. With Raiola at the helm, the Cornhuskers have a bright future ahead, and the excitement is palpable as they prepare for the next chapter.
