Dylan Raiola opens up on his relationship with Matt Rhule

Quarterback Dylan Raiola‘s decision to flip his commitment from Georgia to Nebraska was largely due to Cornhuskers head coach Matt Rhule. During an interview with Hail Varsity, Raiola reflected on his decision to buy into Rhule’s vision at Nebraska and how their relationship has grown.

“Our relationship is special,” Raiola said. “Right now, me and him are like closer than we’ve ever been, and it’s pretty unique. I never thought I’d have a relationship like this with the head coach, especially in college.

“But, at the time [of my commitment], it was, ‘Come in. Earn your stripes. Earn your teammates’ trust and respect, and we could do something very hard but very worth it.’ His Year 3, my Year 2, we’re ready to go. It’s exciting.”

Raiola is poised for a breakout season after shining in his debut campaign last year. Raiola completed 67.1% of his pass attempts for 2,819 yards and 13 touchdowns last season while throwing 11 interceptions.

Raiola had the most passing yards and best completion percentage of all true freshmen in the country. While Raiola’s touchdown-to-turnover ratio could’ve been better, his powerful arm and high football IQ left fans excited for the future.

Raiola has reportedly looked excellent during Nebraska’s fall camp and improved his body this offseason to help him become a greater rushing threat. After all, Raiola wants to give his best to Nebraska and Matt Rhule. Dylan Raiola isn’t the only one in his family who’s been moved by Rhule’s dedication to him.

“My mom started crying [when I committed to Nebraska]. My dad started crying, which was kind of weird, because he never cries. But it was a moment I’ll never forget,” Raiola said. “I’ll never forget telling Coach Rhule, ‘I want to make this place home, and this is what we’re going to do. And I can’t wait to do it with you.’

“There’s so much power in telling someone that you want to do something together. We’ve been together ever since, and it’s just it’s a cool, cool journey.”

Raiola will have no shortage of targets this fall. This offseason, Nebraska reeled in commitments from transfer wide receivers Dane Key and Nyziah Hunter. Both Key and Hunter were top 50 wide receivers in the portal, according to On3’s 2025 Transfer Portal Player Rankings.

On Aug. 28, Nebraska will kick off its 2025 campaign with a showdown against Cincinnati at 9 p.m. ET. The game will air live on ESPN.