Nebraska Cornhuskers head coach Matt Rhule is currently one of the favorites to take over Penn State after they decide to fire James Franklin. Rhule has deep connections to Penn State, having played for the Nittany Lions from 1994 to 1997.
Having started for Rhule and Nebraska since his freshman year in 2024, quarterback Dylan Raiola could suffer if the head coach decides to leave the Cornhuskers. However, one analyst has shared a potential avenue that could send Raiola to Pennsylvania.
Is Dylan Raiola Tipped to Join Matt Rhule at Penn State?
During the most recent episode of ‘CBS Sports HQ, ‘ 247 analyst Tom Loy discussed the potential of Rhule taking over Penn State after Franklin’s departure. The analyst also shared that he believed Raiola would follow his head coach to Pennsylvania.
“I think with Matt Rhule, you’re getting a Dylan Raiola as well. So immediately, you’re taking that next step up if you’re Penn State. But, I don’t think they have enough talent around a guy like Raiola.” The analyst suggested.
After their 5-1 start to the season, the Cornhuskers have one of the top 30 offenses in the country based on PFSN’s offense impact. Meanwhile, the Nittany Lions lag behind, with the 44th-ranked offense in the country.
According to these metrics, Nebraska (Graded B- with a score of 82.6) also has a superior offensive line to Penn State (Graded C+ with a score of 79.8) and more weapons in Running Backs, Wide receivers, and Tight ends based on PFSN’s impact ratings.
However, despite the fact that Nebraska currently has much more talent, the analyst shared that he believes Penn State has a lot of potential if it manages to snag both Rhule and Raiola away from the Cornhuskers.
“You’re playing the long-term game with Matt Rhule; you give him a couple of years. He brings in his staff, and his guys, and then with the transfer portal, it’s gonna send some shockwaves nationally.” Loy claimed.
Initially, after committing to Georgia as a five-star prospect, Raiola ultimately decided to flip his commitment to Nebraska. After he announced this decision, the quarterback shared that playing under a coach like Rhule was a huge factor for him in his decision.
“Our relationship is special. Right now, me and him are closer than we’ve ever been, and it’s pretty unique. I never thought I’d have a relationship like this with the head coach, especially in college.” The quarterback shared during an interview at the start of the season.
NEW: Nebraska QB Dylan Raiola addresses the Matt Rhule-to-Penn State rumors:
“He ain’t going nowhere.”
(h/t @RobinWashut) https://t.co/8PjJkXOL0O pic.twitter.com/UjZ66lmQ4D
— On3 (@On3sports) October 14, 2025
With their close relationship, the quarterback went on record earlier in the day to share his opinion on the rumors of Rhule departing Nebraska for Penn State. Raiola confidently stated that he believed the head coach was staying put.
“He’s as locked in as ever on this football game to get this win. I just had to make sure everyone knew that that’s our head ball coach, he ain’t going nowhere. He’s staying right here.” Raiola claimed.
Under Rhule, Raiola has continued how he started his Freshman year, transitioning into his Sophomore season. According to ESPN, the quarterback currently ranks 43rd overall, throwing for 1591 yards, 16 touchdowns, and five interceptions.
The Cornhuskers have started the season with a strong 5-1 record and are currently ranked 25th in the AP poll. Meanwhile, Penn State’s season looks all but over, with Drew Allar out for the season, and almost no hopes of making the CFB playoffs.
