Dylan Raiola, ESPN’s top-rated pocket-passing quarterback in the 2024 recruiting class, has made a significant decision that could have a profound impact on Nebraska football. He recently revealed that he is changing his college commitment from Georgia to Nebraska, marking a pivotal moment for the Cornhuskers.
Raiola’s choice to join Nebraska represents a potential game-changer for the program. It positions him as the highest-ranked high school recruit to opt for the Cornhuskers since ESPN began tracking rankings in 2006, according to ESPN Stats & Information. Raiola is currently ranked No. 8 overall in the 2024 ESPN 300.
In a phone interview, Raiola shed light on the profound connection he shares with Nebraska football, attributing it to a lifetime of familial ties to the program. His father, Dominic, achieved All-American status as an offensive lineman at Nebraska, and his uncle Donovan holds the role of the school’s offensive line coach.
Raiola expressed his deep-rooted belief in Nebraska, stating, “I firmly believe that Nebraska is in my blood. It’s a great opportunity to be part of something bigger than myself. Nebraska is a special place.”
Raiola’s commitment to Nebraska is the latest chapter in his recruitment journey. He initially pledged to Ohio State in May 2022 but later decommitted and selected Georgia in May 2023. However, his decision to join Nebraska reflects his eagerness to contribute to the program’s legacy, particularly in light of the Cornhuskers’ recent seven-year bowl drought despite their illustrious history, which includes five national championships and three Heisman Trophy winners.
“I think it’ll mean a lot to bring it back,” Raiola remarked. “Just because of the legacy of so many great players that have walked through that locker room that’s been established there — to keep doing what they established. … Just the history of the Nebraska football program. It’s not just another program.”
This commitment to Nebraska represents a significant milestone early in the tenure of head coach Matt Rhule. Rhule, who concluded his first season with a 5-7 record, has been tasked with revitalizing the Cornhuskers’ football program. Raiola’s decision aligns with Rhule’s vision and the culture he seeks to establish within the team.
Raiola, whose high school football journey took him from Texas to Arizona before transferring to Buford (Georgia) High School, concluded his final season with impressive statistics, throwing for 2,666 yards, 34 touchdowns, and just one interception.
Raiola intends to enroll early at Nebraska, commencing his college journey in January. His visit to the campus over the weekend underscored external expectations that he would eventually commit to Nebraska.
As Raiola embarks on this new chapter, he acknowledges that his path will be marked by both highs and lows. While he can’t predict the exact outcome, he eagerly anticipates the adventure and the opportunity to contribute to Nebraska’s football legacy.
“I don’t think there’s a perfect vision of what it’s going to be,” Raiola acknowledged. “There’s going to be ups and downs. … I can’t tell you what it’s going to be, but it’s going to be a lot of fun.”