Dylan Raiola’s work ethic is earning him praise! The coveted 5-star quarterback recruit who landed with the Nebraska Cornhuskers last year promises a turnaround for the team.

Now, the hype surrounding him isn’t just from the media and fans — even head coach Matt Rhule sees Raiola as a key piece for the team’s future. Rhule’s appreciation for Raiola goes beyond his abilities, drawing a comparison to Tom Brady to underscore his significance.

On the July 2 episode of Joel Klatt Show, Rhule wasn’t shy about his enthusiasm. “Dylan’s talent is only matched by who he is as a person,” he declared. He lauded Raiola’s strong family background, mentioning his father Dominic’s successful 14-year NFL career as an offensive lineman, a position he likes to call “unselfish.” He also highlighted Dylan’s uncle, Donovan Raiola, who currently coaches the offensive line for the Cornhuskers. “He knew what the program was really like on the inside,” Rhule said, suggesting Raiola saw a home within the team before committing.  

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Rhule then confidently added, “You know he sends a message to everybody else in recruiting that ‘hey, this is a good place.'” It looks like the head coach is seeing him as a catalyst who “attracts players from across the country that want to come play with him.” 

But talent and connections are just part of the equation. Rhule then went on to stress Raiola’s work ethic. That’s when he drew parallels to the NFL legend, stating, “Always hear Tom Brady and these guys talk about when your best players work the hardest, you have a great team. Well, Dylan is those guys who tries to work the hardest.” It seems like Raiola’s quickly becoming a star with the Cornhuskers!

Will Dylan Raiola be able to bring Nebraska’s fortunes back to life?

The Nebraska Cornhuskers haven’t found their rhythm since joining the Big 10. Coach Matt Rhule’s team hasn’t seen a winning season in eight years. But their hope for a turnaround might rest on the shoulders of one player: Dylan Raiola.

Raiola, considered one of the nation’s top quarterbacks, spurned Georgia’s Kirby Smart to join Nebraska. While he hasn’t played a down yet, Rhule is confident in his “decision-making” skills. He believes Raiola’s accuracy and ability to reduce turnovers will significantly improve the offense this season.

Now Raiola isn’t just Nebraska’s potential savior; he’s benefiting too. Beyond the “home feel” Rhule offered, rumors suggest Nebraska sweetened the deal with lucrative NIL offers to lure him away from the Bulldogs. As a result, Raiola’s NIL valuation skyrocketed from $955,000 to $1.2 million, surpassing LeBron James’ son, Bryce. Sponsors like EA Sports’ College Football video game are already capitalizing on his rising star power. Can Raiola translate this offseason’s success on the field, too?