Matt Rhule & Co. have faced intense scrutiny, and a lot of that has to do with Dylan Raiola—the program’s prized offensive weapon. But as much as Raiola has proven to be a game-changer with his dedication and talent, concerns about his growing weight have added extra scrutiny. If Rhule wants to dodge another 7-6 season, he needs Raiola by his side like an iron post. Then again, it works both ways. For Raiola to hit his peak, he needs an explosive WR room and a strong supporting offense.
Rhule knows it. He’s already brought in some talent and is hunting for more to deepen the roster. But even if he falls short in adding fresh faces, Raiola’s still got a major advantage.
The biggest advantage for Nebraska’s offense? Enter Dana Holgorsen, Nebraska’s new offensive coordinator, and the guy who’s already built a strong connection with Raiola. They got a taste of working together last season, and their chemistry is undeniable. Raiola appreciates how Holgorsen speeds up the game, giving players more space, while Holgorsen admires Raiola’s elite football IQ and ability to read defenses like an open book. The pairing could go deeper than many expect, potentially steering Nebraska toward a playoff conversation.
Breaking down the advantage for the Huskers, ESPN’s Greg McElroy weighed in: “I think Nebraska is a legitimate playoff sleeper this year. A lot of that has to do with the continuity that can be created between Dylan Raiola and offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen. Holgorsen has long been excellent at scoring points, creating a strong rushing attack, and making life easier for the quarterback. I think he has some solid pieces to work with, and if he can build continuity, it will be massive throughout the spring.”
Holgorsen is already in awe of Raiola, who, despite being just a freshman last year, played like a seasoned vet. His efficiency, arm talent, and decision-making stand out, though there’s still room for growth. Mistakes—misplaced throws, forgettable passes, and occasional misreads—are all part of his learning curve. But under Holgorsen’s guidance, Raiola is shaping into a real force.
NCAA, College League, USA Football 2024: Rutgers vs Nebraska OCT 05 October 05, 2024 Lincoln, NE. U.S. – Nebraska Cornhuskers quarterback Dylan Raiola 15moves to avoid a Rutgers Scarlet Knights defensive tackler in action during a NCAA Division 1 football game between Rutgers Scarlet Knights and the Nebraska Cornhuskers at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln, NE..Nebraska won 14-7.Attendance: 87,464.401st consecutive sellout.Michael Spomer/Cal Media/Sipa USA Credit Image: Michael Spomer/Cal Sport Media/Sipa USA Lincoln Memorial Stadium Nebraska United States of America
However, talent alone isn’t enough. Raiola needs explosive playmakers around him. His 2,819 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions last season could have looked significantly better with a reliable go-to receiver. Last year, he had Jamal Banks and Isaiah Neyor, but they’ve since moved on. Now, beyond his passing accuracy, Raiola also faces scrutiny over his 6’3″, 230-pound frame.
“He won’t be a great quarterback at 240 lbs, right?” Rhule acknowledged the concerns but reassured that Raiola is actively working on his physique to improve agility, pocket mobility, and overall athleticism. The last thing Nebraska needs is a lingering weight debate overshadowing the team’s potential.
As a result, Rhule is eyeing some major WR recruits, including Jabari Brady, Nalin Scott, Jayden Warren, and Ryan Mosley. But even as those negotiations continue, the Huskers’ WR room is looking pretty solid, with names like Jacory Barney Jr., Demitrius Bell, Janiran Bonner, Carter Nelson, and DJ Singleton. And McElroy is particularly excited about one major 1,900-yard addition.
Coach Rhule’s biggest offseason recruit makes life easier for Dylan Raiola
The Huskers secured a massive win in the transfer portal by landing Kentucky receiver Dane Key—a move that has Raiola’s fingerprints all over it. Key himself admitted that Raiola’s rapid ascent was a key factor in his decision to come to Nebraska. In fact, Raiola kept in close contact with Key throughout his recruitment, ensuring he felt valued and wanted in Lincoln.
Raiola didn’t just sit back; he took a proactive approach, texting Key right after his first visit and staying by his side throughout the process. That level of commitment speaks volumes about the chemistry they’re already building.
QB Dylan Raiola just started following Kentucky star wide receiver Dane Key. In three seasons with the Wildcats, Key totaled 126 receptions for 1,870 yards and 14 touchdowns, emerging as the most reliable and talented player in the receiver room. pic.twitter.com/lqFcKyJLQD
— Huskers Talk | 𝙉𝙚𝙗𝙧𝙖𝙨𝙠𝙖 𝙎𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙨 (@HuskersTalk) December 5, 2024
McElroy sees Key as the biggest offseason addition, saying: “He’s a physical receiver. He’s not afraid to go over the middle, not afraid to hit in-breaking routes. He can win downfield, he can get behind you—he’s not slow by any stretch of the imagination. He can run, but he really specializes in being a big-bodied, big-catch-radius type of receiver. He’s a quarterback’s dream. A three-year starter with 126 career catches, nearly 1,900 career yards, and 14 touchdowns against top-tier SEC competition.”
Last season, he recorded 47 receptions for 715 yards and two touchdowns. Beyond his impressive stats, what sets Key apart is his attitude. His maturity is what stood out—like when he publicly apologized for an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty against Vanderbilt. That kind of accountability is exactly what Rhule, Raiola, and the entire Nebraska offense need.
For Rhule, revamping the WR room is a necessity, not a luxury. And while he’s still chasing big names, the Huskers already have a strong foundation. Raiola now has the tools he needs to elevate Nebraska’s offense, and with Holgorsen pulling the strings, the pieces are aligning for a serious playoff push.
The post ESPN Analyst Offers Easy Fix for Matt Rhule’s Nebraska Woes as Dylan Raiola Gets Promising 1,900-yds News appeared first on EssentiallySports.