If Nebraska is going to have the improved season that people think they are going to have, they will need much better play from the quarterback position. The Cornhuskers went through three different quarterbacks last season: Heinrich Haarberg, Cubba Purdy, and Jeff Sims, none of which found consistent success.
However, Nebraska brings in highly touted 5-star recruit Dylan Raiola, who many think can solve this program’s lack of success. Head coach Matt Rhule has been very impressed with Raiola in training camp, leading him to be the week one starter against UTEP.
Dylan Raiola will start at quarterback for the Huskers vs. UTEP#GBR x #WhatsNExt! pic.twitter.com/iNVFEOjSvf
— Nebraska Football (@HuskerFootball) August 21, 2024
The Huskers executed the transfer portal well to give the freshman quarterback some weapons as he eases into college football. Nebraska brings in two career 1,100+ yard wide receivers, Jahmal Banks and Isiah Neyor, while also retaining sophomore receiver Jaylen Lloyd.
The schedule also sets up nicely for a freshman quarterback. Five of the Cornhuskers’ first six games take place in Lincoln, with a lone road trip during that stretch to West Lafayette to take on Purdue. After the UTEP game, Nebraska will have to quickly shift its focus to a primetime game against rival Colorado.
Raiola’s debut brings excitement back to one of college football’s sleeping giants. With lots of hype entering the 2024 season, it’s safe to say a lot of eyes will be on the Buford, GA native when he takes his first college snap on Aug. 31.