Athlon Sports
The Nebraska Cornhuskers are celebrating like it’s 1997 after officially earning the commitment from the top quarterback in the 2023 class Dylan Raiola on Monday. The five-star pocket passer flipped his commitment from the Georgia Bulldogs at the same time current starter Carson Beck announced his return to the program.
However, that’s not the main reason Raiola decided to join the Huskers and Matt Rhule. He opened up to ESPN about why he’s deciding to start his college football career at the same place his father Dominic Raiola cemented his legacy.
"I believe from my dad being there, I understand the history of the program," Raiola told ESPN. "I also understand my family legacy there and the fan base and aspirations. I strongly believe in the vision and culture that Coach Rhule has established with his staff."
Raiola is one of the highest-rated recruits to join Nebraska since his father was a star there. Even though the program has fallen on some hard times, Raiola knows the sleeping giant that is the Nebraska football fanbase.
"I think it'll mean a lot to bring it back," Raiola said. "Just because of the legacy of so many great players that have walked through that locker room that's been established there -- to keep doing what they established…Just the history of the Nebraska football program. It's not just another program."
Even though Raiola was committed to both Ohio State and Georgia before this move, he thinks this is where he was always meant to be.
"I firmly believe that Nebraska is in my blood," Raiola told ESPN. "It's a great opportunity to be part of something bigger than myself. Nebraska is a special place."
Even though Raiola was committed to both Ohio State and Georgia before this move, he thinks this is where he was always meant to be.
"I firmly believe that Nebraska is in my blood," Raiola told ESPN. "It's a great opportunity to be part of something bigger than myself. Nebraska is a special place."