Nebraska QB Raiola Out for Season with Broken Fibula

LINCOLN, Neb. – Nebraska’s football program, already grappling with a tough 28-21 loss to USC on Saturday, received devastating news Sunday with the confirmation that star freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola will miss the remainder of the season due to a broken fibula. The injury occurred during the third quarter of the contest at Memorial Stadium.

Raiola, a five-star prospect whose arrival in Lincoln was heralded as a potential turning point for the program, sustained the injury while scrambling on a third-down play. He was tackled awkwardly by a USC defensive lineman and immediately clutched his lower leg, visibly in pain. After being attended to by medical staff on the field, Raiola was carted to the locker room, and initial reports of a significant lower leg injury were sadly confirmed by the team this morning.

The loss of Raiola is a colossal blow to Head Coach Matt Rhule’s squad, which had placed considerable expectations on the young signal-caller’s shoulders. Through the initial games of the season, Raiola had shown flashes of the talent that made him one of the most coveted recruits in the nation, quickly establishing himself as a dynamic presence in the Huskers’ offense. His ability to extend plays and deliver crucial throws had instilled a newfound sense of optimism among the fanbase.

“This is heartbreaking for Dylan, and for everyone in our program,” Coach Rhule stated in a post-game press conference that took on a somber tone. “He’s an incredible young man, a fierce competitor, and he was truly starting to hit his stride. Our absolute priority now is supporting Dylan through his recovery. As for the team, we will rally. This is football; injuries are a part of it. We have confidence in our entire quarterback room to step up and lead this team moving forward.”

Redshirt freshman Heinrich Haarberg, who stepped in for Raiola following the injury, is now expected to assume the starting role for the foreseeable future. Haarberg completed 6 of 12 passes for 78 yards and rushed for 23 yards against USC. The coaching staff will now be tasked with adjusting the offensive scheme to best suit Haarberg’s strengths as they navigate the demanding Big Ten schedule.

Raiola is expected to undergo surgery in the coming days. While the immediate focus is on his recovery, the long-term prognosis for a full return to the field is positive, with expectations for him to be ready for the 2025 season.

The Trojans’ victory compounded a difficult day for Nebraska, who now stand at 2-2 on the season. The unexpected loss of their starting quarterback now casts a long shadow over their aspirations for a bowl berth and a competitive run in the conference. The team will need to demonstrate resilience and adapt quickly as they prepare for their next challenge without their promising young leader.