Dylan Raiola faces Michigan’s defense in defining test

Nebraska’s rising star QB prepares for his biggest challenge yet

The lights will be brighter. The stage will be bigger. And for Dylan Raiola, Saturday’s clash with Michigan is about more than stats, it’s about proving he’s ready to carry Nebraska into the Big Ten spotlight.

Through just over nine quarters this season, Raiola has been electric: 829 passing yards, eight touchdowns, zero interceptions. His accuracy (76.6%) ranks among the best in the nation. Head coach Matt Rhule believes the sophomore is built for this stage, pointing to his growth since last fall.

“Dylan’s more than ready,” stated Rhule. Raiola’s command at the line has sharpened. He’s diagnosing blitzes, checking into better plays, and sustaining drives in ways Nebraska hasn’t seen in years.

He’s benefiting from an offensive line that hasn’t allowed a sack in two straight games, giving him the protection needed to slice defenses apart.

His preparation is relentless. Rhule shared that after Saturday’s blowout win, Raiola was already texting him about Michigan play calls, with a whiteboard in hand, refusing to rest.

Now, Michigan brings a defense stacked with speed, disguise, and physicality. It’s the type of challenge that can humble even the most talented quarterbacks. But for Raiola, it’s also an opportunity, a chance to turn raw numbers into a signature win that redefines Nebraska’s season.

If he delivers, Memorial Stadium won’t just roar. It will believe.

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