Dylan Raiola’s Injury Impact on Nebraska’s Future Explained
Dylan Raiola’s injury has brought significant changes to the Nebraska Cornhuskers’ football program. The starting quarterback was sidelined during the third quarter of a game against the No. 23 USC Trojans. Following the match, Coach Matt Rhule announced that Raiola will not return for the remainder of the 2025 season due to a lower leg injury.
Dylan Raiola’s Injury Details
Raiola reportedly suffered a broken fibula during the game, with an expected recovery time of six to eight weeks. Coach Rhule noted that while Raiola expressed a desire to play, medical staff advised him against it due to his inability to run effectively.
Raiola’s Performance in Nebraska
Since joining the team in 2024, Raiola has established himself as a key player. He set freshman class records for:
- Passing yards: 2,819
- Completion percentage: 67.1%
During the 2025 season, he threw for 2,000 yards, completing 72.4% of his passes, alongside 18 touchdowns and six interceptions. His contribution helped lead Nebraska to a bowl game, the program’s first since 2016.
Impact of Raiola’s Absence
With Raiola out for the season, Nebraska will rely on true freshman TJ Lateef to lead the team. Lateef stepped in during the USC game, successfully completing 5 of 7 passes and showcasing his potential on the ground. He has demonstrated strong performance in previous games, throwing for significant yardage and scoring touchdowns.
Expectations for TJ Lateef
Lateef is expected to take control of the offense moving forward. His previous performances include:
- 6-of-7 for 128 yards against Akron
- 5-of-5 for 126 yards and a touchdown against Houston Christian
At Orange Lutheran High School, Lateef amassed over 6,500 passing yards and accounted for 66 total touchdowns. Coach Rhule believes Lateef has a promising future, but expects an adjustment period.
Strategies Moving Forward
One of the major shifts in the offense stems from Raiola’s unique ability to change plays and adjust protections pre-snap. Lateef may not yet have the same experience or command over the offense. The Cornhuskers may lean more heavily on their running game, particularly with Emmett Johnson, the first Nebraska rusher to hit 1,000 yards since 2018.
As Nebraska prepares for their next matchup against UCLA, the coaching staff and players are focused on refining their strategies to navigate the late-season challenges. The team’s current record stands at 6-3, with hopes of reversing their late-season performance.
Lateef’s learning curve will be crucial as he takes the helm on the field. The Nebraska Cornhuskers are working to build momentum amid these changes, aiming for success in the remaining games of the season.
