Nebraska QB Raiola Breaks Leg vs. USC, Ends Season

**Nebraska Quarterback Dylan Raiola Sidelined for Season with Broken Fibula**

**LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – October 27, 2024** – Nebraska’s promising freshman quarterback, Dylan Raiola, will miss the remainder of the 2024 college football season after suffering a broken fibula in his lower left leg during Saturday night’s highly anticipated game against the USC Trojans. The injury, confirmed by the university on Sunday morning, is a devastating blow to the Cornhuskers’ aspirations and Raiola’s much-hyped rookie campaign.

Raiola sustained the injury in the third quarter of the game at Memorial Stadium. While scrambling to avoid pressure on a third-down play, he was tackled awkwardly by a USC defensive lineman. Though he initially tried to put weight on his leg, Raiola immediately dropped to the ground, clutching his lower leg. Medical staff quickly attended to him, and he was eventually carted off the field, visibly in pain. Subsequent imaging Sunday morning confirmed a clean break to the fibula.

“This is incredibly tough news for Dylan and our entire program,” said Nebraska Head Coach Matt Rhule in a statement released by the athletic department. “Dylan is a fierce competitor and has been a tremendous leader for us this season. Our hearts go out to him, and we will ensure he receives the best possible care and support through his recovery. We have full faith in his ability to come back stronger than ever.”

Raiola, a five-star recruit and one of the most heralded quarterbacks in recent memory, had been the undisputed starter for the Huskers since Week 1. Through eight games, he had completed 62% of his passes for 1,875 yards, 13 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions, showcasing flashes of brilliance alongside the expected growing pains of a true freshman helming a Power Five offense. His leadership and athleticism had been central to Nebraska’s 5-3 start to the season, including a pivotal road victory against a ranked opponent.

The injury occurred during a crucial juncture of the USC game, which Nebraska ultimately lost 34-27. Raiola’s exit marked a significant shift in momentum for the Cornhuskers.

Redshirt freshman Ethan Miller, who stepped in for Raiola against USC, is now expected to take over as the starting quarterback. Miller, a former three-star prospect, has limited collegiate experience, having appeared in only two previous games, primarily in mop-up duty. “Ethan has prepared diligently for this moment, and we have confidence in his ability to lead our offense,” Coach Rhule added. “It’s a challenge, but it’s one we are ready to face as a team.”

The recovery timeline for a broken fibula typically ranges from 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the severity and whether surgery is required. The university did not immediately disclose if Raiola would undergo surgery, but his rehabilitation process will undoubtedly extend beyond the current season, focusing on a full return to health for the 2025 campaign.

Raiola’s commitment to Nebraska was highly significant, as his father, Dominic Raiola, was an All-American center for the Huskers and his uncle, Donovan Raiola, serves as the team’s offensive line coach. His presence had injected considerable excitement and optimism into a program striving to return to national prominence. His rookie season being cut short is a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of college football.

Nebraska is scheduled to face Purdue next Saturday, November 2nd, with Miller expected to make his first career start. The team will now look to rally behind its new signal-caller as it navigates the final four games of the regular season and aims for bowl eligibility.