Dylan Raiola shares what it would mean to take Nebraska to a bowl game

Nebraska currently has a 5-3 record, one win away from a hurdle they have not jumped since 2016. Getting to six wins would place the Cornhuskers in a bowl game, ending a long drought hanging over the program’s head for quite some time. Last season, they were close but lost four straight to miss out on the postseason fun.

Quarterback Dylan Raiola was asked about potentially getting the sixth win, admitting his focus was on this week’s game against UCLA. However, somebody brought up the drought before practice and Raiola reflected on what the accomplishment would mean to the fan base — one that has stuck with them through tough times.

“Before practice, I actually heard someone say there hasn’t been a bowl game in eight years or something like that,’ Raiola said. “I think getting the fans a guaranteed another one more game, possibly more being in the playoffs, would mean a lot to this fanbase. They’ve been through a lot and they’ve been really loyal. So, it would mean a lot to everybody to get to a bowl game.”

Raiola was in fifth grade the last time Nebraska played in a bowl game. He was aware of the program’s struggles but hearing it be said out loud brought things into perspective for him.

“I knew but when it struck me before practice, it kind of hit me a little different,” Raiola said.

Four opportunities are in front of Nebraska to get the job done, beginning with Saturday’s home game against UCLA. Wisconsin is the other home game remaining, scheduled to be played on Nov. 23. Roadtrips to USC and Iowa are on the outside of the Badgers matchup.

Progress is clearly being made under head coach Matt Rhule, with Raiola’s lead of the offense being one of the steps taken forward. Getting to experience some kind of postseason, even if it’s a regular bowl, is something Raiola is ready to experience.