Dylan Raiola Needs To Do THIS To Take Nebraska To NEXT LEVEL In 2025
If Nebraska wants to break through to the upper echelon of the Big Ten in 2025, Dylan Raiola must elevate his game to another level. Year three of the Matt Rhule era is here, and history tells us this is the year his teams make a significant leap. But for Nebraska to truly compete with the likes of Penn State, Oregon, Ohio State, and a potentially resurgent Michigan, Raiola must take on a new role—not just as a participant but as the driving force behind the Cornhuskers’ success.
From a Piece to the Puzzle to The Catalyst
Last season was a solid start for Nebraska under Matt Rhule, finishing with a bowl game victory and a respectable seven wins. But 2025 is about progression, not stagnation. The expectation is not necessarily to win the Big Ten immediately, but Nebraska must enter the conversation. That means targeting at least nine wins and proving they can compete with the conference’s best. The primary catalyst for that success? Raiola.
The best teams in college football win because of their quarterback, not with their quarterback. Last year, Raiola was an essential piece of Nebraska’s success, but now he must be the reason for it. In 2024, he was a true freshman thrown into the fire, learning on the fly. In 2025, he needs to take command, set the tone, and become the engine that drives Nebraska’s offense.
Becoming Nebraska’s Patrick Mahomes
Much has been said about Raiola’s skillset, his No. 15 jersey, and his comparisons to Patrick Mahomes. But what makes Mahomes truly elite is his ability to elevate those around him. He has led the Kansas City Chiefs to Super Bowl wins despite having less-than-stellar supporting casts at times. If Raiola wants to live up to those lofty comparisons, he must do the same for Nebraska.
The good news? He has talent around him. Dane Key was a massive transfer portal addition, while Jakori Barney is poised to take another step in his development. The weapons are there. Now it’s about Raiola maximizing them.
Cutting Down on Sacks and Increasing Mobility
A major area for improvement is pocket awareness. Raiola was sacked 27 times in 2024. That cannot happen again. Whether it’s better decision-making, quicker releases, or using his mobility more effectively, Raiola must find ways to avoid negative plays. Scrambling isn’t just about running—it’s about extending plays, finding open receivers, and keeping the offense on schedule. If Raiola can fine-tune this aspect of his game, Nebraska’s offense will become much more dangerous.
Leadership: From Quarterback to Commander
It’s not just about physical ability. For Nebraska to take the next step, Raiola must become the emotional and mental leader of this team. The best quarterbacks don’t just execute the playbook—they set the tone, rally their teammates, and inspire confidence in every game situation.
Nebraska needs Raiola to be the guy who takes charge in the huddle, lifts the team after a bad series, and steadies the ship when adversity strikes. He doesn’t have to be a rah-rah leader, but he must command respect and keep his team focused on the ultimate goal.
The Time is Now
2024 was just the setup. It was the first chapter in Raiola’s Nebraska story. But 2025 is where the action must unfold. The expectations have been raised. A bowl game is no longer enough. Nebraska must be in the conversation for a Big Ten title.
The pieces are in place. The coaching is there. The opportunity is right in front of him. Now, it’s on Dylan Raiola to take that next step and lead Nebraska into a new era of success.
