2026 QB Dayton Raiola commits to Nebraska

Buford (Ga.) junior quarterback Dayton Raiola has committed to Nebraska, he announced on Sunday evening.

The left-handed younger brother of current Cornhuskers starting QB Dylan Raiola, Dayton is keeping the legacy in Lincoln moving. His father, Dominic, was an All-American for Nebraska and his uncle, Donovan, is the current offensive line coach for the Huskers.

“The legacy continues,” Raiola wrote, announcing his decision on social media.

Raiola has taken plenty of trips to Nebraska throughout his recruitment, including a trip at the end of July and a game visit this month. He becomes the first pledge for head coach Matt Rhule and Co. in the 2026 class.

“Felt great to be back on campus again!” Dayton told On3 following his July trip. “Every time I go there the motto doesn’t change from anybody especially the coaches! Got to spend some good time with Isaiah Mozee too and he was awesome to be around. It was a fun little trip, did a scavenger hunt but also got to talk some ball. 

“Overall it was an amazing time back being with blood family and extended family coaches, players, etc. Also it was fun being told what to do by my sister since she’s the general manager of recruiting there.”

Given the family ties, Raiola has long had interest in Nebraska and has long possessed an offer from the program. While he’s currently amidst his first season as the starter for Buford High and has another season left at the high school ranks in 2025, Raiola opted not to wait to make his college decision.

“The offer from Nebraska is very special,” he told On3 last spring. “It was a crazy feeling when I found out about it. My dad went there, my uncle is there, my brother is looking at them, and it is just cool to know I have the chance to go there. Every time we go to Nebraska, we see my dad’s name inside the stadium and it is a special feeling to have this offer.”

The 6-foot-1, 205-pounder is currently unranked in the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. Buford is currently 4-1 this season and ranks as the nation’s No. 36 overall team and No. 6 team in Georgia, per the On3 Massey Ratings.