The day is finally here. The day Nebraska fans have been dreading since Dylan Raiola entered the transfer portal. The former Husker star and team captain will continue his college football career at Big Ten rival Oregon.
The move to the Ducks was one that was predicted to happen sooner or later since Raiola left NU. However, there were some questions as to how long he'd wait. There are also questions about just how this will all work if the current Oregon starting quarterback, Dante Moore, doesn't declare for the NFL Draft.
Raiola's decision to stay in the conference means that, no matter whether he takes over the starting job next fall or in 2027, he will eventually face off against his former Nebraska teammates. The only real question is where that faceoff will occur.
What Dylan Raiola’s Oregon move means for Nebraska’s future matchups
If the commitment to Oregon means Moore heads to the NFL, then the ex-Husker will face off against Matt Rhule and Co. in Eugene in 2026. That might be better for all involved, considering the hard feelings bound to be felt by a large portion of the NU fanbase who feel jilted.
If, however, Raiola sits out the 2026 season and waits to take over until 2027, his first clash with Nebraska will be in Lincoln. That will certainly be must-watch television for a number of storylines surrounding the game.
Moore returning is only one reason why Raiola might skip this coming fall. His broken leg late in the Huskers' season could also mean that he won't get enough time to work out and practice with his new teammates this spring or summer. Even if he's able to be "full go" by fall practice, learning a whole new offense might be too much of a rush for a program hoping to get back to the College Football Playoff.