Dylan Raiola caught everyone’s attention last season, leading the Nebraska Cornhuskers as a true freshman. Now, one of his coaches is warning the NCAA not to sleep on the young quarterback. As hinted by the staff in Nebraska, Raiola’s imitation of Patrick Mahomes might soon be reflected on the gridiron as well.
Often criticized and under heavy scrutiny for being somewhat of a copycat of Mahomes, Raiola has proven his worth in the football field. More specifically at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln.
The 2024 NCAA season started off with a bang for Raiola, Matt Rhule, and the Cornhuskers, but ran out of gas around the midpoint of the campaign. Still, Raiola showcased a lot of skill and room to grow in only his first year in college football. However, many remain reluctant to take him seriously because of his open idolization of Mahomes. Once one looks past that, it’s impossible to miss the talented quarterback in Lincoln, Nebraska.
Fans across the nation could be in for a rude awakening as Raiola and the Huskers gear up for the upcoming season. Ahead of the season opener on Aug. 28 against the Cincinnati Bearcats, Nebraska offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen issued a blunt admission about Raiola. Perhaps the QB has adopted more from Mahomes than just his personality and appearance.
“So his leadership is outstanding. The play is fantastic. He’s making throws that I’ve never seen before, to be honest with you,” Holgorsen stated, as reported by On3. “So I mean, he’s in a good spot, he’s ready for game day.“
How fitting
Raiola and Mahomes have often practiced together in the offseason. Therefore, it wouldn’t come as a shock to see the Huskers’ QB trying out some of the throws the Kansas City Chiefs’ signal caller has pulled off in the NFL. There might be no better place for Raiola to put the college football landscape on notice than the season opener.
When the Huskers take on the Bearcats on August 28, Raiola will play in a stadium he’s never played in before, but still feels comfortable in. Nebraska and Cincinnati will open the season in no other place than GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Raiola will have a chance to make a statement on the place that’s home to Mahomes and the Chiefs on Sundays.
Back in town
The last time Raiola visited Arrowhead was on January 26, 2025, when the Chiefs defeated the Buffalo Bills in the AFC Championship Game. The Huskers’ quarterback was in attendance in Kansas City. Moreover, he even joined the post-game celebrations in the locker room afterwards.
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Now, the 20-year-old will look to create his own magic and claim a triumph of his own to kick off the 2025 college football season. Raiola has done a great job drawing the spotlight onto Nebraska, but now it’s time to put on a show to keep it there.