aecifo

Dylan Raiola Promises Nebraska Football Win Over Wisconsin To Secure Bowl Eligibility

Umito November 22, 2024

After an encouraging 5-1 start to the season, Nebraska finds itself in a precarious position following a four-game losing streak, leaving the Huskers at 5-5 with two crucial games remaining.

Nebraska hasn’t been to a bowl game since 2016, a stat Husker fans know all too well. Losing these final two games would ensure the biggest collapse so far in this bowl appearance drought. There have been painful seasons, but nothing would be more painful than losing your last six games when you only had to win one to advance to a bowl game.

Nebraska hosts Wisconsin in Lincoln this week, followed by a rivalry game at Iowa to close out the regular season. The team needs another win to secure bowl eligibility and quarterback Dylan Raiola thinks the Huskers are up to the task.

When discussing his relationship with new offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen after Tuesday’s practice, Raiola expressed confidence in the team’s ability to turn things around.

“It’s important to know what he’s going to call and what he likes here and why he’s calling it so we can execute to the best of our abilities,” Raiola said of Holgorsen. “But we’re just going to continue to build on that foundation over the next couple of weeks. We’ll get the win next week and take us to the bowling alley.

That confidence will need to translate onto the field after Nebraska struggled offensively in last week’s loss to USC. Despite being tied 14-14 entering halftime, the Cornhuskers’ offense faltered in the second half, failing to find the end zone. USC took advantage of Nebraska’s missed opportunities and escaped with a 28-20 victory.

Raiola remains optimistic, however, emphasizing the importance of refining the execution of the offense under Holgorsen.

This weekend, Nebraska will face a tough challenge against a Wisconsin defense that shined in its most recent outing. The Badgers delivered a remarkable performance against number one Oregon, limiting the Ducks’ offense to 6 points in Madison. This sets the stage for a compelling clash on Saturday.

Holgorsen’s creative calling will likely be tested as Nebraska looks to end its losing streak and reach bowl eligibility. The Cornhuskers offensive line, which has struggled at times this season, will also need to step up to give Raiola enough time to play and establish a more balanced attack.

With so much to play for in this game, the Huskers’ ability to regroup and execute in critical moments will be in the spotlight. A win would not only restore momentum, but also set the stage for an important finale against Iowa. For now, all eyes are on Saturday’s clash in Lincoln.