Nebraska Quarterback Dylan Raiola Out for Season with Fibula Fracture
Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola will miss the remainder of the season after suffering a broken fibula during Saturday’s 21-17 loss to USC, the university announced today.
The injury occurred with 12:04 remaining in the third quarter when Raiola was sacked. He had previously led the Huskers to a 14-6 advantage before the Trojans rallied to win. This loss significantly impacts Nebraska’s hopes for a strong finish in the Big Ten Conference.
Raiola, a sophomore and former five-star recruit, completed 181 of 250 passes for 2,000 yards with 18 touchdowns and six interceptions this season. Coach Matt Rhule explained his decision to sideline Raiola, stating, “I told Dylan, ‘I love you too much to ask you to play when you’re hurt like this.’” True freshman T.J. Lateef finished the game against USC, completing 5 of 7 passes for 7 yards and rushing for 18. Lateef is expected to make his first start this Saturday at UCLA; you can find the latest conference standings here.
Running back Emmett Johnson expressed concern for Raiola, saying, “I’m really hurt for him. We never want to get our quarterback hurt.” The team now looks to Lateef to lead them, and his ability to incorporate quarterback run action – he previously showed promise in reserve action against Akron and Houston Christian – will be key. The ESPN college football page has more on the impact of this injury.
Officials stated the team will continue to support Raiola during his recovery and focus on preparing Lateef for his starting debut.
