Dylan Raiola Heartbroken as Partner in Crime Moves On From Nebraska, Days After Fans Pleaded for QB to Stay
Nebraska’s tumultuous season has left fans and players reeling, especially Dylan Raiola, the Huskers’ highly-touted freshman quarterback. After enduring a 6-5 campaign, Raiola now faces a deeper emotional setback—his trusted teammate and running back, Emmett Johnson, has entered the transfer portal, leaving a void in the Cornhuskers’ offense.
Johnson, a key contributor in Nebraska’s ups and downs, was instrumental in their season-opening win against UTEP, where he rushed for 71 yards, including an electrifying 42-yard sprint. Following the game, Johnson praised Raiola’s maturity and game awareness, calling him “a freshman who approaches the game like a pro.” Their chemistry was evident, making Johnson’s departure even more impactful for Raiola.
Throughout the season, Raiola showcased flashes of brilliance but struggled under the weight of high expectations. Critics argue that head coach Matt Rhule leaned too heavily on the young quarterback, which may have hindered his development. Despite these challenges, Raiola led Nebraska to its first bowl appearance since 2016, a milestone that offered some solace to fans.
However, Raiola’s commitment to Nebraska has now come under scrutiny. His recent Instagram post, captioned “Patience…stay on that side,” has sparked speculation about his future. Some analysts believe Raiola might explore new opportunities, particularly if Nebraska fails to address its offensive struggles.
To retain Raiola, Nebraska is making moves, including pursuing top-tier recruits like four-star wide receiver Cortez Mills. Still, fans worry that Johnson’s exit and a disappointing season might push Raiola to seek a fresh start elsewhere, leaving Nebraska in search of a new cornerstone for its football program.
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