Nebraska has been presiding over a starting quarterback battle throughout fall camp. Arguably one of the most important position battles in the conference, the Huskers have made their decision for the season opener.

On Wednesday, Nebraska officially tabbed 5-star freshman Dylan Raiola as the Week 1 starter vs. UTEP. Raiola had been battling it out with returner Heinrich Haarberg for the starting role.

Raiola was hotly recruited by Nebraska in the 2024 recruiting class after previously being committed to Ohio State and Georgia during the process. He arrives in Lincoln as the No. 3 QB nationally and the 21st overall player in the 2024 recruiting cycle per the 247 Sports Composite.

Haarberg was the only QB who saw action in 2023 to return to Nebraska for 2024, but the issues in his passing game were apparent last season. That does not mean he will not factor into the offense at any point in the process, but the upside of Raiola won out for the time being.

Reaction to Raiola’s starting nod

Raiola brings with him an added sense of optimism for Nebraska’s season ahead, and fans and media alike are intrigued by a true freshman starting for the Huskers. Here is a glimpse at the reaction to the news: