Pat McAfee Just Dropped a Bold Prediction for Dylan Raiola’s 2025 Season
When Pat McAfee speaks on college football, fans take notice—and Nebraska supporters are buzzing after the ESPN personality made a strong statement about Huskers quarterback Dylan Raiola. Following a backstage meetup with Raiola, head coach Matt Rhule, and running back Emmett Johnson at WWE Monday Night Raw in Omaha, McAfee shared his excitement about what he believes is in store for the young QB. His message? Raiola is primed for a breakout season in 2025.
So what got McAfee so amped? After spending some time with Raiola behind the scenes, he was blown away by the freshman’s confidence and presence.
“That Dylan kid was awesome. I loved the way he carried himself,” McAfee said on his show. “He’s got that star quality. I really think Dylan Raiola is going to be a star next year.”
It wasn’t just Raiola’s demeanor that impressed McAfee—his football pedigree and grit stood out too. “He’s a coach’s kid, so you know he puts in the work,” McAfee noted, highlighting how players raised around the game often bring a different edge.
McAfee also raved about Raiola’s on-field talent, recalling a standout play: “That throw down the sideline with a defender on his arm? Incredible. I’m a big fan of this guy.”
The praise didn’t stop there. McAfee’s take adds to the growing optimism in Lincoln, especially after Nebraska’s promising 7-6 finish capped by a Pinstripe Bowl win. Raiola, who played a key role as a true freshman, completed 67.1% of his passes for 2,819 yards, with 13 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. He also earned Big Ten Freshman of the Week honors during the season.
McAfee also praised Coach Rhule, calling him a “college football icon,” and sees Nebraska’s resurgence as a great story for the sport. “They caught fire late in the season… it feels like Nebraska is truly back,” he said. “Their fanbase is incredible, and it’s great to see them relevant again.”
With a high-profile 2025 season opener against Cincinnati at Arrowhead Stadium and top recruits like wide receiver Cortez Mills possibly joining the fold, Raiola may have even more tools to work with.
McAfee wrapped up his encounter with the Huskers on a high note: “Meeting those guys after RAW was awesome. I thought about our chat the whole drive through Omaha traffic. Totally worth it. Those guys were cool.”
For Nebraska fans, McAfee’s glowing review is just more fuel for the excitement building around their team. If Raiola lives up to the hype, 2025 might just be the season that puts the Huskers firmly back on the national stage.
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