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Is Dylan Raiola the next Patrick Mahomes? Can he live up to the hype?

It takes someone who was once a rising star to recognize another star rising! Dylan Raiola’s admiration for KC Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes is no secret because it’s written all over his look and his plays. Not only does the Nebraska QB look like the 2x Super Bowl champion, but he also emulates some of his plays. 

Dylan Raiola wears the No. 15 that Mahomes wears, sports the same Mohawk curls, and even celebrated in his idol’s style before their Colorado game. What does Mahomes feel about the attention from the 19-year-old? By Mahomes’ statement, that’s a cool thing to do. After all, a lot of us want to be a version of our idols.

In one of his IG stories on September 12, Dylan Raiola uploaded a video of Patrick Mahomes, giving his reaction to his doppelgänger imitating his styles and plays. He said, “It’s cool. Honestly. I mean, I was that guy. I grew up watching players… I remember [growing up], I loved Alex Rodriguez. Played shortstop. I would try to make plays just like him and do stuff like that and it helped me become the athlete that I am.” Raiola showed his enthusiasm at his hero’s approval, writing, “That’s love big cuzzo.” 

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via Reuters

The term “cuzzo” between Dylan Raiola and Patrick Mahomes first came into existence during Nebraska’s fall camp when the freshman QB arrived looking just like the NFL star QB. Mahomes had then called him “Lil cuzzo” because of their striking resemblance. Raiola has not only found someone who’s a favorite to beat the GOAT’s record as an idol, but he also found his twin flame who shared the same mindset growing up. As for Mahomes, he must be thrilled and pleased to know that his young fan is already exhibiting signs of an excellent future NFL QB.

Dylan Raiola is rolling in freshman success

People don’t expect much from freshman college football players, but Dylan Raiola is a special case. He was a consensus top 10 recruit in the 2024 recruiting class who committed to Nebraska despite offers from other elite programs like Georgia, USC, and Oregon. But his stellar freshman debut against UTEP gained him the attention he deserved as the Huskers won in a dominant fashion, crushing the Miners 40-7. 

Even when faced with the Buffs who defeated them last season, Dylan Raiola stood strong. Despite Deion Sanders’ plans and preparations to tackle him in Week 2, he showed his excellence when he led the Huskers to a 28-10 victory over Colorado. They’ll play their next game against the Northern Iowa Panthers on September 14. Will he be able to carry this winning streak in his true freshman season?