Nebraska Announces Quarterback Plan After Dylan Raiola's Transfer

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Nebraska Announces Quarterback Plan After Dylan Raiola's Transfer

Originally posted on The Spun | By Andrew Gould | Last updated Dec 16, 2025 2:28 PM ET

Nebraska needs a new starting quarterback with Dylan Raiola expected to enter the transfer portal.

Cornhuskers offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen confirmed Tuesday that Raiola is no longer with the team as they prepare for a Las Vegas Bowl matchup against Utah on New Year's Eve. The former five-star recruit led Nebraska's offense in the last two seasons.

Holgorsen told reporters that he doesn't have a clear blueprint for his desired replacement under center.

"You get the best available," Holgorsen said (h/t On3). "Is it a pocket guy? Is it a dual-threat guy, more of a runner? You look at the overall body of work. It’s just so different now. We’re actively watching quarterbacks, and have been watching quarterbacks, to try to make those decisions."

Moving on from Raiola

Aug 28, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers quarterback Dylan Raiola (15) celebrates with wide receiver Dane Key (6) after a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bearcats during the fourth quarter at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dylan Widger-Imagn Images

Raiola flipping his commitment from Georgia represented a massive recruiting win for Matt Rhule in 2023. He earned the starting job as a true freshman and progressed in his second season, averaging 8.0 yards per completion with a 72.4 completion percentage.

Nebraska still finished 7-5, losing four of its final six games with 105 combined points. Raiola's anticipated exit creates a significant void for Rhule shortly after the head coach fired the quarterback's uncle, offensive line coach Donovan Raiola.

TJ Lateef will start for Nebraska against Utah in two weeks. Holgorsen said it's the coaching staff's job to get the most out of a player's talents, but he identified an important trait Lateef possesses.

"We can mold our coaching around what the best player is and what those skill sets are," Holgorsen said. "Mobility is important. I think TJ brings an element of mobility that is refreshing and helpful, but you got to have that ability to be able to sit in the pocket and make the throws as well."

'It's just the new norm'

Raiola's transfer is a sudden blow to a Nebraska program aiming to restore its past prestige. Yet Holgorsen showed no hard feelings when accepting the player's decision as standard protocol in the NIL era.

"I’m not going to speak on any of that. I really loved working with Dylan," Holgorsen said. “He’s a great kid and gave a lot to this place for two years. And just look at what’s going on across the landscape of college football. How many quarterbacks have popped in the portal that were starting at their school? It’s just the new norm. So, I can’t speak for him. I enjoyed working with him, and I wish him the best."

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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